What would possess me, a seemingly sensible, well-paid public servant to throw in the towel and take to the road with a new business venture? Founding Welcome Tours means coming full career circle for me. As a teenager I studied at polytech with the aim of becoming a tour operator. A placement with Wellington sightseeing legend Wally Hammond introduced me to a lasting friend and mentor. However in typical kiwi style, I headed overseas in my early 20's for an OE and then to varsity to do further study. From there, I found my way into various public service roles. The jobs were interesting and challenging and I gave my all, but come mid-2016 I was ready for a change. At this point I took time out to have a serious think about how I want to spend the 20-odd working years that I hope to have left ahead of me.
My love of travel has taken me across the globe - relaxing on Pacific islands, partying in Panama, nannying in the French Alps, sightseeing in Shanghai... Each time I venture away from home and have these amazing experiences I am reminded of what a special place New Zealand is. There are so many magical sights and great experiences right here at home - with language we understand, a currency we know, a timezone we're attuned to and great people to boot! I want to experience more of New Zealand myself. It's time for me to get out from behind a desk and go and meet characters with crazy hobbies, get to know our plants and birds, understand where my food comes from, and have lots of FUN!!
10 Comments
trishb
30/7/2017 12:00:28 pm
Hi Sue,
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Sue
31/7/2017 11:15:10 am
It's lovely to hear from you Trish and thank you for the feedback. I hope all is well with you. Nga mihi, Sue
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Jen
31/7/2017 10:43:16 am
Love this venture! And love your passion too 😊 Hearing your story gives the business a heart ❤
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Sue
31/7/2017 11:19:20 am
Long live passion!
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Colleen Ireland
2/8/2017 10:38:47 am
You go girl I wish you well in this exciting venture. C XXX
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Sue
2/8/2017 01:30:48 pm
Thank you very much Colleen. See you in the Wairarapa!
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mum
2/8/2017 11:44:39 am
On our trip to The States late last year I had THE most fantastic time with everything taken care of. There was so much shared laughter, we met so many great people and saw the most amazing things. Go well with this spin-off Sue!
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Sue
2/8/2017 01:32:43 pm
Didn't we just? And here's to many more great trips together...
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4/8/2017 12:42:59 am
So wonderful that you are going after your dream, living with no regrets. Way to go Sue! I'm so excited to be sharing this adventure with you. Woohooo, away we go!
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Sue
4/8/2017 03:45:00 pm
Yes, exciting times Debbie!
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authorSue is the Director and Chief Explorer at Welcome Tours. Sue blogs about new discoveries and the things that matter to Welcome Tours. Archives
January 2019
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