Journey Beyond is making its first move outside Australia with the acquisition of New Zealand coach touring specialist Grand Pacific Tours. The deal is set to close in September.
“This marks an exciting next phase of growth for us—further expanding our offerings of immersive, authentic and unique tourism experiences into New Zealand,” Journey Beyond CEO Chris Tallent said in a statement.
Grand Pacific Tours, founded in 1996 by Peter Harding, has built a strong reputation for fully inclusive coach holidays across New Zealand. The company offers two touring styles: Ultimate Small Group Tours, limited to 20 travelers on business-class coaches; and Signature Mid-Size Tours, operated on 32-seat coaches designed for premium economy comfort. More than 230 departures are already scheduled for the season ahead.
“Like Grand Pacific Tours, Journey Beyond embodies an unwavering commitment to providing their customers with the very best experiences,” Harding added in a statement.
Harding will stay on as executive general manager during the transition, working alongside general manager Stacia Morris and the existing Grand Pacific team.
Journey Beyond’s portfolio includes Australia’s best-known overnight rail experiences—The Ghan, Indian Pacific and Great Southern—as well as small-group outback operator Outback Spirit. Tallent said bringing Grand Pacific into the fold will strengthen the group’s position across Australasia.
“We are beyond excited to welcome this exceptional business and the Grand Pacific team into the Journey Beyond family,” he added.
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