Kim Dunwell

My relativity short time in the travel industry has seen many changes; and for a long time I considered myself new to travel having bought the agency at the age of just 35 years old, but now a 20 year veteran in travel I see this as MY wonderful journey.  To this day, and even after the past 3 years I still look forward to coming into the office and working at my desk with my valued clients alongside my equally valued team. 

In 2020, UCOL & Chamber of Commerce in Manawatū, Whanganui, Wairarapa offered scholarships to chamber members to help us upskill and recover from the impact COVID-19 had on the businesses. The scholarship covered the programme fees for the New Zealand Diploma in Business Studies; I saw the scholarship advertised in a Chamber of Commerce email and thought it would be an excellent opportunity for both myself and those left working at helloworld Travel to stay engaged, especially while the New Zealand border was closed and business was in hiatus.   Studying business at UCOL has given my helloworld team a better understanding of how COVID-19 has impacted the global economy and has given us more confidence in working with clients whose travel plans have been affected. 

Berta, Ellise and myself graduated with Business Diplomas Level 5 in March 2023 which has been one of my proudest moments to date.

Since 2021, I have been on the helloworld NZ Relationship Committee Board working continually to improve our franchise delivery model which in turn provides the best outcome for our valued clientele within the Manawatu and wider communities.

I’ve travelled extensively around the world though now enjoy my family holidays the most, taking time to spend connecting together.  I have learned that having quality family time and creating memories is the WHY for me, keeping quality of life and continuing to make connections.  My favourite place to go on holiday right now is the South Pacific, and in particular the gorgeous Fiji Islands.    We head back to England and France in December 2023 to re-connect with our extended European family after a challenging few years.   

Personal Awards

Diamond Sales 2016

Platinum Sales 2017

Diamond Sales 2018

Platinum Sales 2019

Diamond Sales 2023

TAANZ Winner Best Travel Agency Manager Retail 2018