TRIPS AND TRAMPS
“Having known John and Amanda for 20 odd years, I’d highly recommend them to support organizations in developing their tourism/hospitality businesses.
They both have an in-depth knowledge of the industry and are passionate in their resolve to produce authentic, professional and high quality visitor services to the tourism industry.”
Steve Norris, Owner.
AIR MILFORD
“We’ve had the privilege of knowing John initially through his B&B, but more recently with his auditing profession at Qualmark. In this role we found him extremely knowledgeable, drawing on his industry experience and teaching proficiency made for an enjoyable and educational process as opposed to a traditional ‘tick box’ exercise. His “can do” attitude is infectious with only good intentions to see your business succeed”.
Hank/Kerrie/Antony Sproull, Owners
TOTALLY TOURISM
“John went above and beyond what was required; providing great practical advice on all aspects of our tourism operation, creating a comprehensive customer service program and running training sessions. The professional support and advice we have received has been invaluable.”
Steve Mackie, Totally Tourism Operations Manager
QUEENSTOWN COUNTRY LODGE
“What John and Amanda don’t know about the tourism industry is not worth knowing. Not only do they have practical experience in the industry they were also able to extend our thinking, opening avenues and ideas we never considered or could have dreamed of. Their enthusiasm about the industry is infectious and worthy of aspiring to.”
Ian and Sandie, Managers and Past Qualmark Assessor
HIGHLANDS MOTORSPORT PARK
“All the best for your new chapter. You’ve been fantastic to Highlands, thanks for your support, patience and making the process worthwhile and enjoyable. Our business is better because of your input and I thank you for that.
You are welcome at Highlands any time and look forward to seeing you.”
Josie Spillane, Chief Operations Officer
TRAIL JOURNEYS
“I had the pleasure of having John as our Qualmark assessor for 5 years. It wasn’t until John came along that we started making progress and finding value in the Qualmark endorsement. John changed the dynamic of our assessments, he wasn’t just there to mark what we were doing, he was there to help us improve. With his knowledge, experience and pragmatic approach, he’d offer suggestions and options for doing things better.”
Shayne O’Connor, Operations Manager (Past)
ACTIVE DOWN UNDER
“John and Amanda Cushen understand tourism
from every angle and truly embody Manaakitanga. They bring a wealth of experience, professionalism and genuine desire for every visitor to have the best possible experience while in New Zealand.
I have worked with the Cushen’s in a variety of their roles for 10+ years and can say this passionate Kiwi couple always go above and beyond and are a pleasure to work with.”
Jane Turner, Active Downunder Owner
“We engaged Tourism IQ to help lift our guiding game and improve the customer service skills of our team. John’s approach was relaxed but professional. Content was tailored to us, so was relevant to what we do. John’s presentation style kept the team engaged from beginning to end. Even our most experienced staff took away some fantastic new knowledge.”
Sim, General Manager, Fiordland Jet
GIBBSTON VALLEY WINERY
John has a passion for tourism and wealth of knowledge across multiple hospitality sectors. His guidance and support throughout our Qualmark review was invaluable and I was particularly impressed with his ability to understand our business and recommend appropriate changes.
He has my highest endorsement and I would happily recommend his services.
Ashling Swirtz, Gibbston Valley Wines General Manager
BEKERS MOTORCYCLE TOURS
“We met John when applying for ‘Qualmark’ in 2013; John helped and supported us through this process. With ongoing support and professionalism he provided informative information regarding how to improve our business which included strategies on how to reach out to more customers. This help was greatly appreciated and we used all his advice.”
Donna & Graham Beker, Owners.
BELLA VISTA
“John is authoritative and knowledgeable. His delivery at both a group level and working one to one is informative and enjoyably engaging. We wouldn’t hesitate to invite John back to work with our group again.”
Rob Burnell, Bella Vista General Manager.
CRUISING CLUB OF AMERICA
“We enjoyed John Cushen’s encyclopedic knowledge of the natural and human history of the entire area. On top of that, they are a lot of fun and very perceptive of the interests of the CCA members in their care… natural pace and delivery, and flexibility. In short, he is an exceptional professional; you will be wise to engage him and Amanda for future trips if the opportunities present themselves.”
Peter and Liza, Tour Members.
WHO ARE WE?
Amanda and I have spent the last 18 years totally involved in the New Zealand tourism industry. While Amanda will be in a supportive role as she continues her work with Qualmark / Tourism New Zealand, I (John) have found myself doing more and more tourism consultancy and so have decided to focus on these opportunities full time. Check out our experiences on Who We Are.