Aranui Cruises appoints Moana McKeen as first NZ BDM

Aranui Cruises appoints Moana McKeen as first NZ BDM
Edited by Travel Weekly


Aranui Cruises has appointed Moana McKeen as its New Zealand business development manager, a new position aimed at reinvigorating the New Zealand market.

McKeen takes on the role after 10 years with Tahiti Tourisme and said she was looking forward to something different within her area of expertise.

“I have lived and breathed Tahiti for a long time and know each archipelago like a dear friend,” McKeen said.

“I can’t wait to hone in on the stunning Marquesas Islands, which were recently UNESCO heritage-listed and where Aranui has been cruising for 40 years, and also be part of the Austral Islands’ journey onto the world stage as Aranui opens up these special southern islands.

“After 40 years of cargo cruising in French Polynesia, Aranui is one of the most beloved and respected operators in the region and it is an honour to be part of the team.”

After officially starting on October 1, Moana has hit the ground running and is attending Meet The Islands of Tahiti, Pacific Roadshows in Australia and New Zealand this week, including in Sydney tonight (Tuesday, 15 October).

Aranui Cruises’ Australia and New Zealand Representative Laurent Wong said Moana was the first standalone New Zealand representative for Aranui and she would support him in day-to-day activities.

“We are delighted to have Moana join the Aranui family,” Wong said. “There are few people in this region who know French Polynesia as well as Moana. Her unrivalled knowledge and insights will help her in every aspect of this new position.

“I know she is going to do a fantastic job promoting Aranui in the New Zealand market, strengthening ties with travel agent partners, training wholesalers and agents, and continuing to foster the close relationships she has developed over many years in the industry. She is the perfect person for the job and I’m so thrilled to have her onboard.”

Feature image: Moana McKeen and Laurent Wong.

Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

Aranui Cruises

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