Intrepid Travel has officially acquired 100% of New Zealand-based small group operator Haka Tours, building on its initial 2021 investment and deepening its long-term commitment to the Aotearoa market.
The move will see Haka Tours rebranded as Intrepid DMC New Zealand Limited and marks a key milestone in the company’s strategy to become one of the top three travel brands in the country, for both outbound Kiwi travellers and international visitors.
Why New Zealand matters more than ever
New Zealand has long been central to Intrepid’s growth strategy, valued both as a destination and as a source of environmentally and culturally aware travellers, according to Brett Mitchell, Managing Director ANZ.
“We have more Kiwis travelling on Intrepid trips per capita than anywhere on the planet,” he said. “So we want to continue to invest locally and are incredibly excited about our future in Aotearoa.”
He added that the company remains committed to expanding both inbound and outbound operations that reflect the adventurous essence of Aotearoa.
New name, new role, same purpose
Under the new structure, the company has appointed Simon Mckearney as its first-ever New Zealand Country Manager. Based in Auckland, Mckearney will oversee both inbound and outbound operations, a first for Intrepid in the region.
“Haka Tours has built a respected brand over the past 20 years, and we’re committed to carrying that forward with integrity and purpose,” Mckearney said.
“After completing the full acquisition, our focus is on strengthening local partnerships, supporting our guiding and operations teams, and delivering exceptional travel experiences that reflect the values of Aotearoa and the communities we work with. This includes bringing ANZ Nature Tours into the Intrepid DMC New Zealand family.”
Part of a bigger ANZ play
The Haka Tours acquisition follows the company’s full buyout of Australian active tourism company JOOB’s Inspiration Outdoors brand earlier this month, as the company continues to build scale across its Destination Management Company (DMC) network.
Intrepid’s ongoing investment in Australia and New Zealand strengthens its presence in the active and adventure travel space while allowing for more localised leadership and region-specific product development.
KARRYON UNPACKS: With inbound, outbound and DMC operations now unified, Intrepid’s full buyout of Haka Tours cements its Kiwi stronghold. Expect sharper product, deeper partnerships, and a stronger local footprint.
