Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) is expanding its luxury footprint in New Zealand, targeting the country’s growing appetite for luxury goods and services.
The news comes as French jeweller Cartier announced plans to open its first New Zealand flagship in Auckland; joining a growing collection of global luxury brands opening doors in Aotearoa.
FCTG managing director independent and luxury brands, Danielle Galloway, said New Zealand has proven to be a highly promising market.
“New Zealand is a key growth market we’ve been eyeing – Kiwis have a strong appetite for luxury goods and services,” Galloway said. “We have the likes of Cartier opening a flagship in Auckland, so there’s a growing group of discerning clients who value the same level of service and product for their holidays.”
One of group’s first moves was appointing a dedicated leader – FCTG New Zealand Head of Luxury Kelly de Graaf.
De Graaf will lead the inaugural expansion of the Luxury Travel Collection (LTC) into the New Zealand market, while also supporting the growth of FCTG’s flagship luxury retail brand, Travel Associates.
“Having a leader who can support both Travel Associates and The Luxury Travel Collection is an enormous advantage,” Galloway said.
“It allows us to align our strengths, share insights, and deliver an elevated experience to both our clients and our advisors, granting them greater access to our curated house of luxury travel.”
De Graaf said securing the role was a career highlight.
“What excites me most is the opportunity to blend my knowledge of the local market with the global strength of LTC and Travel Associates,” she said.
“New Zealand travellers have an adventurous spirit and value authenticity and with these brands behind them, our advisors will be uniquely positioned to craft journeys that inspire and connect.”
Travel Associates has five boutiques across New Zealand in Mt Eden, Howick, Petone, Merivale and Dunedin with plans to expand the network further across the country.
The Luxury Travel Collection will open expressions of interest for its New Zealand membership house in 2026.
