TRENZ Unpacked: From Garage Start-Up to the Global Stage
In this TRENZ Unpacked episode, Michelle catches up with Nic Mead from Auckland Sea Kayaks ahead of his first-ever TRENZ - and what it’s taken to get there. Starting a business from his garage and growing it into one of Auckland’s most respected marine tourism operators, Nic shares the journey behind Auckland Sea Kayaks and the deep connection to place that sits at the heart of their experiences across the Hauraki Gulf. He reflects on winning the Excellence in Community Engagement category at the Tourism Awards in 2025 and being a finalist in the Excellence in Business (Micro) category - recognition that has helped raise the profile of the business and opened new conversations across the industry. Nic also talks candidly about what it really means to become trade ready, why attending TRENZ has always been part of a longer-term strategy, and the preparation required before stepping onto the international stage. From refining products specifically for trade to researching the right buyers and focusing on alignment over volume, this episode is packed with practical insight for operators considering their own first TRENZ. It’s a thoughtful and honest conversation about timing, relationships, and building a business strong enough to grow into the opportunities the travel trade can bring. ______________________________________________ Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch! This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰 Today's Guest Nic Mead - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nic-mead-8a218120/ For more info on TRENZ: https://www.trenz.co.nz/ Resources and Links to connect with us: Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/ Website: www.destinatenz.com If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast