Local in line for best agency manager

Deborah Kay is a finalist for Best Travel Agency Manager 2016. Photo / Stephen Parker

A Rotorua woman has made the finals for the Travel Agents' Association of New Zealand National Travel Industry Awards 2016.

Rotorua Hello World owner/manager Deborah Kay is one of three finalists for Best Travel Agency Manager, retail division.

Mrs Kay said her general manager nominated her in secret and she did not find out until she had made the finals.

"I'm very honoured for the nomination and to get into the final."

She said she now had to put together a presentation on why she deserved to win, which she would give to a panel of five judges in July.

"So now I have landed myself in a whole lot of work! But, really, it was an accolade just to be nominated.

"My amazing team ... make my job easier - they are 'on my bus' and totally in sync with my vision and goals - this definitely helps my role in terms of leadership."

She said the judges were looking for someone who was excellent at what they did.

"It is a huge accolade to win that title, so I have been asking people in my industry why they think I deserve to win.

"It's like the Oscars of the travel agencies.

"The winner has that something extra. If it's me that's great, but either way it's just great to get to the finals and I will continue doing what I always do and keep trying to do my best," Mrs Kay said.

There are 22 award categories spanning across brand, location, individuals, and brokers. The finals award dinner will take place on September 10 at the SkyCity Convention Centre in Auckland.