Welcome to Skål International New Zealand

Skål International is the world’s leading professional organisation for travel and tourism leaders — and we’re proud to have a strong and active presence right here in Aotearoa New Zealand.

With a legacy dating back to 1957, Skål International New Zealand is made up of five dynamic clubs: Wellington (our founding club), Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown and our newest addition, Te Tauihu, representing the Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough regions.

Skål is the only global organisation that unites every sector of the travel and tourism industry under one banner — from tour operators to hotel managers, airline execs to regional tourism experts. What sets Skål apart is its unique focus on “doing business among friends” — a commitment to building real relationships, meaningful collaborations and global connections through shared values and trusted networks.

Membership is open to professionals across the travel and tourism landscape, with applications welcomed through each club’s local committee. Our clubs meet regularly for networking, insights and camaraderie, offering members genuine opportunities to connect and grow — both personally and professionally.

With more than 280 members nationwide, Skål New Zealand also comes together at national events like our Mid-Year Meeting and Annual General Meeting and Congress. Members also enjoy access to prestigious global gatherings such as the Skål World Congress — a vibrant celebration of connection, collaboration and innovation.

New Zealand’s leadership in the Skål movement is something we’re proud of. We've produced three Skål World Presidents — Phil Sims (2008), Nigel A. Pilkington (2016), and Peter Morrison (2020) — and count three esteemed Membres d’Honneur among our own: Bill Lees, Jefferie Tippen and Leighton Cameron.

In the true ANZAC spirit, Skål New Zealand also maintains a strong and enduring bond with our Australian Skålleagues, attending each other’s national congresses since 2006.

When you join Skål, you’re not just joining a club — you’re becoming part of a worldwide movement of tourism professionals who believe in friendship, ethics, sustainable tourism, and global connection.