Sunrise, sunset & starlight on the Great Barrier Reef

I'm Gavin Rasikaran, your dedicated travel expert with a passion for exploring the world and a commitment to making your travel dreams a reality.

With over 40 years of experience in the travel industry, I've had the privilege of helping countless clients embark on unforgettable journeys to destinations near and far.

When it comes to planning an International trip, be it just one destination or an around the world journey, it can all become overwhelming and daunting. Together with you, I will help you plan a perfect holiday taking the stress away, personalised to you.

With over 20 countries visited and four group tours under my belt, I understand just how impactful a well-planned journey can be. Each trip has given me new insights—not only into different cultures and places—but also into what truly makes a travel experience memorable.

I genuinely enjoy the planning process: mapping out itineraries, uncovering hidden gems, and making sure every detail is just right. It’s this same thoughtfulness and enthusiasm I bring to every trip I help design. Whether it’s a relaxed escape, a cultural deep dive, or an adventure-filled group tour, my goal is to create travel experiences that are exciting, seamless, and tailored to you.

When I’m not travelling, you’ll usually find me being a proud (and slightly crazy) dog lady—spending time with my three dogs and competing in dog agility. My love of animals flows into my travel values too, and I’m a big believer in travelling ethically and responsibly, with care and respect for local communities, cultures, and wildlife.

Megan

I am delighted to share the exciting news of my return to House of Travel after a brief break from the travel industry. I am thrilled to continue my travel career, which spans over 17 years. It all began when I entered the industry as a travel consultant and eventually progressed to assistant office manager. I developed a strong fascination with the wholesale operation, which inspired me to delve deeper into that specific aspect of the business. 

This experience further ignited my desire to embark on my second Overseas Experience (O.E.) As a result, I left New Zealand and had the opportunity to work as a travel agent in both Australia and Ireland. Upon my return to New Zealand, I seized a valuable position as a sales representative for Malaysian Airlines before finally joining House of Travel at the beginning of 2017.

During my travels, I have been fortunate to explore 18 countries, and among them, Hawaii holds a special place as one of my favorite destinations. Exploring the Waikele premium outlets, basking in the sun on beautiful beaches, snorkelling with turtles along the Maui coastline, and embarking on the exhilarating Haleakala Zipline adventure—this destination offers the perfect all-in-one holiday experience for me.

Cruising, indulging in luxury travel, and enjoying beach breaks are my passions, although I am not averse to a touch of adventure. Witnessing the awe-inspiring Chichen Itza Mayan ruins in Mexico and conquering the ascent of Mount Kinabalu in Sabah were both remarkable personal achievements.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my profession is assisting clients in creating their ideal travel experiences. I take great pleasure in hearing about their favorite moments and highlights upon their return.

Being a friendly and bubbly person, I appreciate spending time with my clients building their dream holidays, listening and paying attention to their needs to create special memories. Let me help you discover the world the way that you would like to.

I feel so fortunate to be a part of this wonderful travel industry that I am so enthusiastic about and find that my passion to help others shows when working in my happy place.

I have travelled through Europe with Contiki in my early 20's which was such a wonderful way to get a taste for the European culture and food, opening my mind to Europe's uniqueness. In 2023 I travelled to London to watch an All Blacks game at Twickenham Stadium which was absolutely fantastic, then completed a Trafalgar tour of England and Scotland. I was so blown away by the historic palaces and magnificent landmarks as well as iconic attractions.

Recently I was in Central Europe and embarked on a Scenic River cruise from Budapest through Vienna and Bratislava on the Danube. Cruising through the European waterways being inspired by the picture-postcard villages and castles. It was like being in a dream. If you have ever thought of doing a European River cruise, I highly recommend it. Come see me to have a chat about this incredible way of travelling as well as giving you some tips and insights before you go.

Selling river and ocean cruises is a passion of mine. It is such an easy way to travel. Unpacking once, having food included as well as entertainment. Why would you not love to travel like this.

I love Asia and the wonderful people, culture and food you experience in these destinations. I have been to Bali, travelled through Cambodia and the South to North of Vietnam, as well as parts of Eastern Canada and New York. I cruised Alaska which I absolutely loved and have had many trips to different parts of Australia, South Pacific, Asia and South Africa.

My favourite country would have to be Cambodia, where I thoroughly enjoyed meeting the locals, travelling this beautiful country, and experiencing the local food. Waking up at 5am to have a cup of tea whilst watching the sun rising over Angkor Wat as the local monks walked past. It was a magical moment and one that will be engraved in my mind forever.

I can’t wait to meet with you to discuss your individual travel enquiries.