IMAGINE

Imagine a world where like-minded business owners come together under cooperative principles and create a transparent business model that drives exceptional value for shareholders and suppliers alike.

Imagine a world where this transparent business model bucks the trend and sees the cheques being written to you, as opposed to you writing the cheques.

Imagine a world where you have the freedom to focus on delivering great products and services to your clients, unencumbered by “Head Office” politics and demands.

Imagine a world where your business is truly your business, and you once again have control.

A group of visionary travel business people imagined all of this back in 1999 when they formed FIRST Travel Group – a “Family of Independent Retailers Specialising in Travel”, a group that has now become unquestionably New Zealand’s leading independent travel alliance.

With core values of independence, partnership, profitability, passion, integrity and trust, FIRST now has 46 members, who collectively employ more than 400 staff, and have a combined annual turnover of over $500 million. This turnover enables the best deals to be negotiated with key suppliers around the world.

MANAGEMENT

FIRST has a small yet highly skilled management team that is well regarded across the travel industry.

MEMBERSHIP SERVICES

FIRST is committed to supporting our members in achieving their business goals, with a strong emphasis on managing and strengthening preferred supplier relationships.

YOU Travel & Cruise (Retail)

Launched on 1 April 2016, YOU Travel & Cruise is the retail arm of the FTG Group. With locations nationwide, its members bring a wealth of industry knowledge and experience to every store, working closely with clients to create tailored travel solutions. Their passion for travel is both evident and inspiring.

TECHNOLOGY

First are proud to have developed key technical systems in-house, which are tailor-made solutions unique to our Members. In 2012, FIRST launched FIN (First Information Network). FIN provides members with instant access to a huge range of information, from preferred supplier agreements and remuneration rates, information on campaigns and special deals.

For more details on FIRST, and to discuss the virtues of becoming a member, please confidentially contact on 09 524 1614 or John Willson on 09 524 1610