A Moment to Pause and Feel Proud - CLIA Awards

I don’t often stop to reflect — the travel world moves quickly, and there’s always another journey to plan, another client to look after, another destination calling. But every now and then, it’s important to pause and acknowledge the moments that matter.

This year has brought one of those moments.

The Private Travel Company has been nominated for the CLIA Awards – Cruise Agency of the Year (Single Location), New Zealand 2025, and I couldn’t be prouder of what that represents. Awards like this aren’t about trophies or titles — they’re about trust. Trust from clients who allow us to curate some of the most meaningful journeys of their lives, and trust from industry partners who value knowledge, experience, and consistency.

On a personal level, it’s also been a humbling year. I was recognised as #1 for Ponant sales in New Zealand and Top 5 in Australasia, an achievement that reflects my long-standing passion for expedition and luxury cruising — particularly journeys that take travellers beyond the ordinary, to the edges of the map

Another milestone, Cindy Bakewell one of our Professional Travel Advisors has been recognised by Viking as a 2026 Viking Platinum Club Advisor (Top 5 with Viking). This has assisted The Private Travel Company to become Viking Platinum Agency. This recognition speaks to the depth of our experience with Viking and the confidence they place in us to match the right traveller with the right journey — whether that’s river cruising through Europe or ocean voyages further afield.

What makes all of this meaningful is that none of it is about volume alone. Every booking represents a client placing their confidence in us — often for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. That responsibility is something I’ve never taken lightly, even after decades in this industry.

I’m deeply grateful to our clients, our cruise partners, and our industry peers for their continued support. And to my team at The Private Travel Company — thank you for sharing the same commitment to doing things properly, thoughtfully, and with genuine care.

Here’s to another year of remarkable journeys, deeper connections, and continuing to do what I love — helping people experience the world, beautifully.

— Kerry