Travel Insiders: The packing tip this Air NZ boss swears by

Monday, 13 July 2026

Air NZ’s chief customer and digital officer Jeremy O’Brien.

They help people see New Zealand and the world but where do they go in their own time?

We ask people in the travel industry about the way they travel and their favourite parts of New Zealand.

This week we talk to Jeremy O’Brien, Air New Zealand’s chief customer and digital officer. He lives in Auckland.

What is your best travel tip?

Pack half the things you think you’ll need and then half it again. It’s amazing how far a pair of shorts, sneakers, a t-shirt and a puffer vest can take you!

Where was your first overseas trip?

Australia as a 15-year-old for a school first XI cricket trip.

Aisle or window seat?

Aisle – I’m always up and about for a walk and a stretch.

Must-have song on your road trip playlist?

Jack & Diane by John Mellencamp.

What’s one thing you can’t travel without?

Waiheke Island is O’Brien’s favourite NZ destination.

Chat GPT. Customised for wherever I am visiting at the time.

Where is your favourite New Zealand destination and why?

Like I tell my children, they are all my favourites! If I had to choose, then Waiheke Island in the Hauraki Gulf. It’s on my doorstep and always has something happening year round – thriving local craft markets, great cafes and restaurants, beautiful beaches, vineyards and friendly locals.

What’s your favourite thing to do in your local area?

Joining my wife Courtenay to take the dog for a walk through Churchill Park in Glendowie on a sunny morning and stop in to see Emily and Cynthia at Fifty Fourth Street café in St Heliers for a latte.