Wu says the company will keep operating its New Zealand tours, with a departure of the 21-day North and South itinerary scheduled for November carrying passengers from Australia and England as well as domestic clients.

Wendy Wu has also found strong interest in Australia with destinations such as the Red Centre and these tours also look like becoming permanent fixtures with the company.

Wu says the pandemic has reinforced for clients the value of working with a travel agent and a reputable tour operator.

‘In the past our customers have booked a tour year by year but now we are seeing people book for years ahead, and even two or three trips a year.

‘This is partly because people don’t want to miss out but also because once they find a company they are comfortable with they stay loyal.’

She says that customers who saw other travellers get into difficulties with their arrangements in 2020 have had the value and securtity of dealing with travel experts reinforced.

‘Our team was able to get people home safely and make alternative plans if necessary.’

Much of Wu’s and the company’s focus is now on the reopening of Japan – with the announcement yesterday that its ‘relaunch tour’ will be a 12-day Jewels of Japan itinerary departing on 26 July.