Intrepid Travel has appointed New Zealand travel industry leader Simon McKearney as its new country general manager, effective 19 May 2025.
The appointment marks a major milestone in Intrepid’s evolution in Aotearoa, as it transitions from an inbound tour operator and destination management company to a fully integrated travel business, serving both inbound travellers to New Zealand and outbound Kiwi travellers heading abroad.
“We’re backing New Zealand in a big way,” Intrepid Travel managing director for ANZ, Brett Mitchell, said. “We see New Zealand as a market with significant potential and unique opportunities. By investing in local leadership and building stronger partnerships across the country, we’re committed to further strengthening our relationships with customers, suppliers, and the communities we work with.
“No one travels with Intrepid like Kiwis do – we have more Kiwis travelling with us per capita than anywhere else in the world. They just get our style of travel. With Simon on board, we’re excited to continue growing that connection.”
McKearney brings more than two decades of senior experience in the NZ travel sector. Based in Auckland, he will lead Intrepid’s New Zealand operations with a clear focus on inbound/outbound growth, domestic and local customer engagement.
“This is an exciting opportunity to help reshape how a global travel brand operates in New Zealand,” McKearney said. “Intrepid is walking the talk when it comes to investing in New Zealand, with a genuine desire to partner with the local industry and be part of its future. I’m excited to be on board.”
The move comes after a period of strong performance and growth in New Zealand.
In 2024, Intrepid welcomed record international travellers to Aotearoa, with top-selling trips including the nine-day South Island Express and 18-day Premium New Zealand Journey.
With the outbound market now firmly in its sights, Intrepid is positioning itself to become one of the top three travel brands in New Zealand. This includes new roles across sales, marketing and partnerships, allowing the company to be closer to its customers and deliver stronger support for its trade network
