The number of Kiwis taking holidays overseas has rebounded strongly. Photo / Supplied
A travel industy boss says the “devastating” and “heart-breaking” years of the pandemic are now well behind the sector which is enjoying some of the best results ever.
Brent Thomas, president of the Travel Agents Association of NZ (Taanz) said the industry had been galvanised by the pandemic.
“This is now a thriving industry that is having the best years it has ever had,“ he said at the Taanz national travel industry awards in Auckland last night.
An industry veteran, Jim Murphy of Pukekohe Travel, took the top Taanz honour, entering its Hall of Fame. The firm was also prominent in awards selected by travel suppliers.
It was the first time the awards have been held for five years after being put on hold when Covid-19 hit in early 2020. Closure of borders led to the near collapse of international travel.
Many agents worked to get Kiwis back home while their…