By Leon Gray-Lockhart
UNITED Travel, Eltham have once again proved that being in a small provincial town is no barrier to being a big national success.
It was with great surprise that Faye Philips received the news that she had been named New Zealand's Top Retail Consultant for AAT Kings, an Australian-based
tour operator.
"I was gob-smacked," said Faye, "I knew I was in the running, but I did not expect to get anywhere really."
The award recognises Faye's efforts in producing the highest volume of sales of AAT Kings tours in New Zealand, ahead of all other travel consultants selling them around the country.
"I really believe in these tours - they're low-cost and take all the hassle out of travelling. I've had great feedback from lots of clients who have been on them."
AAT Kings offers a large number of different tours around a variety of Australian destinations, including desert, bush, city and provincial locations. They also run a range of tours in New Zealand.
"The tour operators really do look after you. They're a great way to see the country, and people stay in good quality hotels."
Faye has worked at United Travel in Eltham for over seven years after working in a travel agency in Hawera, and she attributes her success to good old-fashioned customer service.
"I genuinely believe these tours offer great value for money. I really strive to match holidays to an individual client's needs and offer them good advice on what I think would suit them."
As winner, Faye received a trophy and a framed picture with a small plaque on it.
"I also received a six-day holiday in Darwin. I'm looking forward to that, it's going to be great," she said.
