House of Travel cruises to awards

House of Travel cruises to awards

House of Travel was the main New Zealand winner at the 2009 Australia and New Zealand Cruise Industry Awards held in Sydney (Sunday 24 January 2010).

Alison Kearney from House of Travel Howick won the top award, New Zealand’s Cruise Consultant of the Year.

This category is voted on by Cruise Lines and is based on sustained activity throughout the year, including training, promotion of cruising, and overall sales.

The Howick office of House of Travel was just as successful, winning the Cruise Agency of the Year, and House of Travel Remuera took silver in the same category.

House of Travel Parnell’s Kylie Masters was a finalist in the ‘Rising Star’ category, and Howick and Botany Junction were finalists in the Promotion of the Year category.

House of Travel Retail Director Brent Thomas said cruising is the fastest growing part of the holiday and travel industry, and a major focus for House of Travel.

“Even in a difficult economic climate in 2009 cruises remained in strong demand, with an increasingly diverse range of people coming to appreciate their appeal,” he said.

“Although couples still dominate demographics, we are seeing a growth in extended families and friends travelling together. Seniors also continue to be an important segment.

These groups can select from a cruise to suit them, from “floating cities” to smaller luxury ships and expedition cruises, as well as a variety of exciting and exotic destinations”, continued Mr Thomas.

“Add the convenience of only needing to unpack once and the value for money with many inclusive packages and it’s no wonder our agencies such as House of Travel Howick, Remuera and Parnell are suggesting cruising will be even more popular in the 2010 season.”

The awards were made at a black tie event on Sydney’s waterfront before 350 industry members.

EDNS

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