Our People

Since graduating from university, Elizabeth has now found her true calling “New Zealand Tourism” Born in the central South Island she has an understandable love for the great outdoors and a true passion when it comes to helping people discover our wonderful Country. Elizabeth takes great pride in ensuring our team has the latest information to showcase the very best New Zealand has to offer and fits in perfectly to run First Light Travel’s Customer Services.   

Marcella was destined for a bright future in travel, having both Italian and Samoan Heritage, and a love of learning about the different cultures around the world. Her parents fostered her love of travel with family holidays throughout Australia and the South Pacific. After studying, Marcella became Air New Zealand's youngest ever Flight Attendant, a dream of Marcella's as a 9 year old. Her time as a flight attendant came to an end, and she moved to Europe to take on new adventures. Marcela explains how these travel experiences have shaped her as a Travel Designer.

Gina was born and raised in Tāmaki Makaurau and simply loves the North Island life. Her top spots to visit are Paihia, The Coromandel and Lake Taupō. Gina graduated from The International Travel College of New Zealand and just knew that she wanted a career helping people have the best adventures here. When she is not sharing tips on how to maximise your trip you will find her on a paddle board or meandering through a vineyard.

Growing up in the USA, Danielle’s passion for travel began at a young age. After a year of studying abroad during university the travel bug was fully engrained, inspiring Danielle to spend years exploring and living on a variety of continents whilst earning her Master’s degree in Tourism Management. She was drawn to New Zealand for the awesome hiking opportunities and Middle Earth landscapes. When Danielle is not crafting seamless and unique itineraries for others, you will find her eagerly exploring our backcountry.

Upon completion of her degree in the UK, Narissa embarked on a round the world trip landing in New Zealand for the first time in 2014. Falling in love with the endless natural beauty and kiwi culture she now proudly calls New Zealand home. Using her unique experience as both a tourist and a local, Narissa now dedicates her time to personally curate the dream itinerary guaranteed to create memories of a lifetime.  

Nigel has also been involved in tourism for over twenty years. Working as a tour guide in Africa, Nigel literally enjoyed it so much that he decided to run the company - becoming the London based Operations Manager. After completing his MBA and spending three years as a Management Consultant, Nigel felt it was time to get back to the good life - travel!

Natalie is a born and bred Kiwi who grew up on the tropical island of Waiheke. From a young age she loved exploring New Zealand so a career dedicated to helping others discover Aotearoa’s amazing beauty was a natural progression. With over 20 years in the industry, you can be sure Natalie will take excellent care of your travel arrangements in her Guest Services role. When she is not at work, you can find her sipping on the family wine at their relaxing beach bach.

Bitten by the travel bug at a young age, Nicole made it her goal to study tourism in New Zealand. She is especially interested in accessible tourism and experience design. Originally from Malaysia, she is excited to be helping international clients make that once-in-a-lifetime trip to this amazing country. In her spare time, Nicole loves discovering New Zealand’s hidden gems, trying local brews, and hiking the country’s beautiful trails. 

After 4 years running other peoples trucks, Steve established his own successful African overland safari company, overseeing operations and logistics between London and some of the most challenging terrain in travel that there is. In 2003, twenty one years later, Stephen returned to New Zealand and is now using his expertise as First Light Travel's Transport Specialist.

Brent has been involved in tourism for over twenty years. He owned an agency in London for 7 years (Global Connect Travel) running `high end' adventure tours in East Africa and diving holidays in the Red Sea, along with other activities and destinations around the world. Currently attempting to mountain bike all the back country tracks he can find and living to tell the tale!

Originally from the USA, Anna has travelled the globe fairly extensively. She graduated university with a degree in Tourism Management and has since gained experience working in many facets of the industry, including the luxury space. She is passionate about implementing her love and knowledge of New Zealand to tailor make your dream holiday. When not creating your perfect trip, she can probably be found dreaming up her own next adventure or in the great outdoors.

Born and bred in New Zealand Michelle loves to travel and believes in the saying, “Don't leave home until you've seen the country”.  She has travelled the length and breadth of NZ, in the early years by motorbike but more recently has traded her bike for a Campervan.  Her favourite holiday involves meeting the locals and finding a beach or bush walk to enjoy the joys of nature and then discussing all of the above over a wine at the end of the day.  After having worked in the IT industry for 30 years Michelle now focuses on making First Light Travel's systems even better.

Judith comes from Amsterdam in the Netherlands. In 2004 she set out on a world trip, visiting all continents and finally arriving in New Zealand. After an 8 month road trip, claiming to have travelled every road at least once, she decided to stay in what she believes is the most beautiful country in the world. Judith says living here still feels like one continuous holiday - as soon as she steps outside, or even glances out a window!

Meli, born in New Zealand with proud Fijian roots, has an unwavering passion for his homeland. Having studied tourism and extensively travelled  around the country, Meli’s love for New Zealand shines through in everything he does. He’s captivated by New Zealand’s unique beauty and seizes every opportunity to explore its diverse landscapes. Outside of work, you’ll likely find Meli on the golf course or relaxing with a craft beer by the beach.

Toni has always been proud to call New Zealand her home. Born and bred in New Zealand she is still constantly awe-struck at the country’s beauty. She loves nothing more than roughing it in the outdoors camping with her fishing rod. Getting off the beaten track is her only destination in mind when travelling through New Zealand which is why she ends up finding herself in the most stunning locations ever imagined. She believes that it’s her mission to share her knowledge of this fascinating country with like-minded people from all over the world.

Emma was born and raised on a farm in Taranaki on the North Island of New Zealand and caught the travel bug on her first trip to the Northern Hemisphere! Upon her return home in 2017, she just knew she had to share her new passion for those wanting to visit the South Pacific. She started her tourism career as a Travel Designer before moving into the Product space as an assistant and now she is first Light Travel's Partnerships Manager. Emma’s favourite place in New Zealand is Wellington as it ticks all the boxes that every foodie desires!

Gabriella grew up in California with frequent trips to the UK to visit extended family and that is where her love for travel began. After spending some time in Europe a friend convinced her to travel for a few months in New Zealand where she fell in love with the beautiful landscapes and relaxed lifestyle. Five years later she has settled in Queenstown and is excited to be an integral part of the Accounts team. When she is not working you can find Gabriella out paddle boarding on the lake or finding the best day hike.

 Growing up in New Zealand with the awesome culture and spectacular scenery has always made Jaydene a very proud Kiwi. From a young age Jaydene knew that she wanted to be able to share her beautiful country with people across the world and have them experience this little slice of heaven for themselves. Whether you enjoy riding the slopes of a ski field in Queenstown or sunbathing on a beach in crystal blue water up in the Bay of Islands – New Zealand has it all and Jaydene will design the perfect trip for you!

Tatyana knew that she wanted a career in tourism from a young age and this is what inspired her to graduate from the International Travel College of New Zealand. Tatyana is very grateful to be able to call New Zealand home and create memorable trips for her treasured customers. She is very passionate about helping others to maximise their travel time and enhance their experience here. When Tatyana is not dedicating her time to “work”, you can find her relaxing at the beach or exploring nature through the wonderful bush walks of the North Island.

Having travelled to over 40 countries (so far), Katrina has a wealth of travel knowledge to share! Growing up in Canada, she graduated in Tourism and Hotel Management and has over 16 years of hospitality experience from working in hotels, cruises and living abroad. Passionate about experiencing new cultures and learning new things about the world she is now living in Auckland and is doing an exceptional job as our Business Development Manager. On her weekends you can find her exploring all of the natural beauty that New Zealand has to offer.

Gail grew up in Scotland and began exploring the world with family from an early age. After travelling Australia for 2 years on her first solo trip and working her way through the travel and tourism industry, she decided to give New Zealand a try. Drawn by the natural beauty and the adventure activities, New Zealand stole her heart and she has now chosen to make Aotearoa her home. Gail is a fantastic asset to First Light Travel, excelling in her role as Organisational Development Manager. When not “working”, you will find her by the water, on a mountain or exploring somewhere new.

Katarina was born in Slovakia and first came to New Zealand in 2018 with the intention of completing a one year trip. Thanks to the natural beauty and Kiwi culture, she now never wants to leave! Katarina has a Masters in Environmental Geography and a huge passion for travel. Her favourite part of New Zealand is Arthur's Pass with an abundance of beautiful hikes and cheeky Kea birds everywhere. Katarina is an integral part of our Guest Services team and when she is not in the office you can find her hiking in nature.

Izabella's love for travel began during her childhood where she became a camping enthusiast, regularly exploring everything that the North Island has to offer. Her passion lead her to graduate in Tourism and work in hospitality before really kick-starting her career with First Light Travel. She loves experiencing new adventures and lives to help you feel the same when you visit New Zealand. Her favourite place to explore is the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua! Izabella enjoys spending her days supporting the team in her Guest Services role.

Born and raised in the Philippines, Kimi grew to have a great appreciation for both nature and city life which sparked her passion to travel the world. Kimi is constantly mesmerized by New Zealand, the place she now calls home. She believes the natural beauty is like no other and advocates for everyone to experience it for themselves at least once in their lives. Kimi is an integral part of the Product team at First Light Travel, dedicated to ensuring that your dream trip can become a reality.

After visiting New Zealand a number of times and falling in love with its natural beauty and warm-hearted people, Aussie born and bred Cassandra took the giant step to move here in 2022! A keen photographer, hiker and adrenalin seeker at heart, Akaroa, Bay of Islands & Queenstown are amongst her many favourite places to visit. Chatham Islands, Abel Tasman and Stewart Island being top of her ever-expanding Bucket List. When she is not out and about exploring, you will find her meticulous working on our content as an integral part of our Product Team.

Born and raised in Australia, moving over to Canada as a teenager. Andrea has always had one foot in the outdoors and the other on a plane. she has explored over 50 countries, but the South Pacific is the one place she keeps coming back to. Her (current) favourite place in Aotereoa is Kaikoura and Kangaroo Island in Australia. Andrea works behind the scenes with our amazing suppliers across Australia and New Zealand, making sure everything runs smoothly and our experiences are the real deal. When she is not traveling, you’ll probably find her tramping or on the water... or maybe at a winery.

Originally from the UK, after graduating University in 2009, Heidi spent the next few years travelling the globe before settling in New Zealand in 2014. Heidi proudly calls Tāhuna Queenstown home and is the South Island’s biggest advocate. Having worked in Tourism since arriving in NZ, Heidi absolutely loves showcasing the variety of adventures that are on offer. When she is not at her desk you will find her out and about exploring, she cannot wait to fill you in on the best secret spots to make your trip one to remember.

Originally from France, Jeff developed the “travel bug” from a young age and came to realise the beauty of travelling is all about encounters and experiences, especially meeting the locals. Having worked in hotels and resorts for years allowed Jeff to experience the world and when he landed in Auckland, he never looked back. You will find Jeff in the Coromandel in summer and South Island in winter when taking a break from being our Operations Manager, his favourite spot being the magnificent Mackenzie Country.

Wietske has always had her heart set on a career in tourism and has not looked back after more than 10 years in the industry. Her passion began with family trips exploring the hidden gems of New Zealand, with each experience inspiring her to travel and explore more. In her role as Marketing Manager she relishes the chance to showcase the South Pacific as a must-see destination. She is happiest out exploring one of New Zealand’s great walks and considers Fiordland to be her favourite holiday destination.

Nichole grew up in the UK and spent several years soaking up the Australian sun before settling in spectacular Wānaka in 2018. Since then, she has been crafting unforgettable New Zealand and Australian holidays, sharing her passion for these destinations with every client. Outside the office, Nichole enjoys fine New Zealand wine and the breathtaking hiking trails of the South Island (not necessarily in that order).

Rebekah moved to New Zealand from the UK in 2022 and instantly knew she’d found home. Her passion for travel began after university, backpacking through Australia and falling in love with a life of adventure. Since settling in Aotearoa, she’s spent her weekends road-tripping, hiking, and surfing her way around the country, which she calls the most beautiful in the world. Rebekah is dedicated to helping others experience that same sense of freedom and excitement, crafting bespoke itineraries that showcase the very best of New Zealand.

Born and raised in Auckland, Selina’s love for travel began at age 11 during her first overseas trip to Samoa with her family. This early experience inspired her to study for a Travel & Tourism diploma and sparked a lifelong passion for helping others create their dream holidays. She adores visiting Kaikōura for its incredible wildlife and scenery, and her top New Zealand experience is a canopy tour in Rotorua. When not perfecting guest itineraries, Selina enjoys discovering new eateries or cheering on local sporting events.

A born and bred Aussie, Elise has travelled all over the world and now calls New Zealand home. Falling in love with the incredible beauty and huge variety of experiences NZ has to offer, Elise particularly enjoys exploring the food scene of NZ and trying as many new adventure activities as possible. Elise loves sharing her travel tips with the world and as our Marketing Manager, she makes sure you can find your own inspiration to start planning your adventure with us.   

Originally from the UK, Will arrived in Aotearoa New Zealand with a passion for film and adventure, eager to explore the landscapes featured in The Lord of the Rings. That journey sparked a deep connection with the country’s natural beauty and welcoming spirit. Now based in Auckland, Will combines his love of storytelling and travel to create memorable experiences for others as one of our Travel Designers. Whether it’s dramatic vistas or tucked-away treasures, he’s dedicated to helping other visitors to uncover the magic that first drew him in.

Raised among New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes, Kylie has a lifelong passion for uncovering unique and unforgettable experiences. Her adventures span from the Pacific Islands to the icy expanse of Antarctica, and her travel insights have featured in local lifestyle publications. Kylie loves sharing indigenous stories and showcasing the diverse beauty of her homeland—most recently, the vibrant colours and towering peaks of the Routeburn Track have topped her list. When she’s not embellishing itineraries with personal recommendations, she’s out exploring coastlines, forests, and mountains—always in search of the best local treats and the perfect hot chocolate.

Born and raised in Oamaru, New Zealand, Gina studied at the New Zealand School of Tourism in Christchurch before spending five years working and traveling in Australia. She returned home and settled in Wānaka with her partner and pug, Norbit, embracing its outdoor adventure lifestyle of mountain biking, hiking and skiing. As a dedicated Travel Designer, Gina specializes in creating personalized itineraries, finding joy in seeing clients experience their dream holidays. Her favorite New Zealand spots include Doubtful Sound’s overnight cruise, Marlborough Sounds and the rugged West Coast, especially the Blue Pools walk.

Hailing from the Blue Mountains near Sydney, Australia, Sarah now calls the picturesque lakeside town of Wānaka home with her partner and their two dogs, Snickers and Woody. She is continually inspired by New Zealand’s stunning landscapes and sense of adventure, with highlights including an overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound, where breathtaking scenery and profound silence left a lasting impression. With a diverse background in veterinary nursing, hospitality, finance and travel, Sarah brings her expertise and passion to her role as a Travel Designer, helping others experience the unforgettable magic of New Zealand.

Growing up in Papamoa with Mount Maunganui as her backyard, Natasha has always felt a deep connection to Aotearoa’s landscapes and people. After studying Hospitality Management in Queenstown, living in London, backpacking through Asia, and spending two years in Melbourne, returning home reminded her just how special New Zealand truly is. She loves the snowy magic of the South Island in winter and the sun-soaked beauty of the North Island in summer - believing NZ shines in every season. As a skilled Travel Designer, Natasha brings her passion for travel and local insight to crafting seamless, memorable experiences.
 

Anika was born and raised in Aotearoa, proudly embracing her Māori and Samoan heritage. From an early age, she developed a love for exploring new places. Every road trip sparked a sense of wonder and a dream to stay longer. That passion naturally led her into the world of travel and tourism, where she’s part of the dedicated Reservations team. Outside of work, Anika enjoys scenic walks, spending time with her energetic young relatives, and family dinners filled with laughter and talk of the next adventure. She is also a big fan of travel vlogs, especially those featuring tourists trying local foods.

Originally from Indonesia, Felita moved to New Zealand to pursue studies in Hospitality and Tourism. Her passion for travel and exploration inspired her to stay and experience more of the country’s natural beauty. She brings a wealth of experience to the Reservations team, contributing to smooth and efficient travel operations behind the scenes. Her favourite destination is Queenstown — a vibrant town surrounded by mountains and lakes, perfect for relaxation and inspiration. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring new places or finding peaceful spots in nature to unwind.

Olivia, a proud Kiwi with a Bachelor’s degree in Tourism Management, has a passion for exploring both her own backyard and the wider world. She has travelled to Australia, Rarotonga, Canada, Italy, and Greece and loves taking a relaxed approach that lets her soak in nature and local history. At home in Northland, Taupo Bay holds a special place in her heart, having spent many years camping there as a child. A valued member of the Guest Services team, when Olivia is not in the office she'll be out and about discovering new eateries, staying active at the gym and immersing herself in the great outdoors.

Deeply connected to Aotearoa and proud of her Māori heritage, K-Lianne discovered her passion for travel during her studies in tourism. With a strong background in hospitality and retail, she brings warmth and care to every interaction. Her experience in customer-facing roles gives her a unique, people-first perspective in the Product team. K-Lianne’s favourite destination is Twizel, a close-knit South Island community that offers a true sense of belonging—an experience that inspires her behind-the-scenes work to ensure every journey feels just as welcoming.

Tahlia has always been drawn to the world of travel and the excitement that comes with planning a great journey. Born and raised in New Zealand, she remains captivated by Aotearoa’s rolling green hills, rugged mountains, and breathtaking coastlines. After studying at the International Travel College, she began her next adventure as part of First Light Travel’s Reservations Team. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring museums and galleries, seeking out local beaches, and photographing New Zealand’s remarkable landscapes.
 

Meenal’s passion for travel drives her role as a Reservations Agent. Originally from Fiji, she loves exploring Taupō’s tranquil lakes and stunning landscapes, as well as the scenic coastal roads north of Auckland. Always on the hunt for hidden gems, Meenal brings her insider knowledge and enthusiasm to managing bookings efficiently and seamlessly behind the scenes.

Glenn’s 30-year travel career spans 43 countries and decades of international experience, including 20 years in London before returning to Aotearoa New Zealand. Passionate about life at home, he enjoys sampling wines at award-winning vineyards, fishing and gathering kaimoana (seafood), playing golf, and exploring new cafés with friends. He is deepening his connection to his Māori heritage and advancing his te reo Māori language skills. Bringing extensive experience in travel and technology, Glenn is Head of Technology at First Light Travel.

Born and raised in Aotearoa, Louise has a strong connection to her Māoritanga and a passion for sharing the beauty of New Zealand. After traveling extensively overseas, she realised there truly is no place like home. As a Travel Designer, she specialises in creating bespoke itineraries that highlight the very best of the country. Inspired by her love of scenic hikes and exploring New Zealand’s wine regions - especially Central Otago - every journey she crafts is authentic, memorable and perfectly tailored.

Auckland-born Shelley has always loved travelling and discovering new places. Her sense of adventure has taken her to Melbourne, Sydney, New York and Miami, with the Philippines, Japan and Europe next on her wish list. A proud Aucklander, she enjoys exploring the city’s vibrant food scene, while her favourite Kiwi escape is Queenstown, with its stunning scenery, adventure and peaceful charm. As First Light Travel’s Digital Marketing Specialist, Shelley brings her passion for digital storytelling to life, creating content that inspires travellers to experience the best of New Zealand.

Tia has travelled widely, living in several countries before discovering her love for New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes, thrilling adventures, and welcoming communities. Using her own experiences, she designs personalised itineraries that bring the country to life. Her favourite region is the South Island, and she can’t wait to guide you to its breathtaking scenery, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences.

Aucklander Maria has a natural eye for uncovering hidden gems, from local eats to unique experiences. Early family trips to Samoa sparked her love of travel, while a journey to Japan deepened her appreciation for culture and cuisine. Closer to home, Tūroa remains a favourite as the place she first experienced snow. She is also passionate about discovering New Zealand’s natural beauty through glamping. As a highly skilled Reservations Agent, Maria ensures every booking is handled with care and attention to detail.

Originally from the UK, Katie first visited New Zealand in 2014 and quickly fell in love with its dramatic landscapes and welcoming people. After travelling the world and completing a degree in Sport Science, she followed her passion into tourism and moved to New Zealand in 2022, settling in Wānaka with her partner and two dogs, Tonk and Nova. As a Travel Designer, Katie specialises in unique, boutique experiences, with a particular love for the Fiordland region.

Cody moved from California to Aotearoa New Zealand in 2019 after a 30-day road trip sparked a lasting connection with the country. Passionate about sharing its landscapes and culture, he entered the tourism industry and brings his love of travel into every experience he helps create. Outside of work, he can be found soaking up the sun on the Northland beaches, camping in the Coromandel, snowboarding in Cardrona, or exploring new destinations with his family whenever he gets the chance.

Saige’s love for New Zealand comes from exploring it firsthand, including completing the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and walking the Abel Tasman Coast Track. She is especially drawn to Rotorua’s geothermal landscapes and hot pools, and still finds herself in awe when flying into Queenstown or road-tripping through the South Island. Having travelled extensively, she believes New Zealand is one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations. As a Travel Designer, she enjoys creating journeys that blend iconic experiences with personal, meaningful touches.