All inclusive holidays

While I'm now in a part-time support role for our incredible team of Travel Specialists, I have been part of the Calder & Lawson family since 2011. I've worked across all areas of the business, including as a Travel Specialist from 2018-2021.

My love for travel and exploring the world began as a child. I come from a big family in a small Waikato town, and as my older sister travelled through America working as an au pair, I will always remember receiving her post cards, monthly phone calls and gifts in the mail from the amazing places she visited. From those moments, I knew I wanted travel to be a big part of my life.

I am fortunate to have travelled to many countries, experiencing various travel style and cultures. I love sharing with people everything I can about the amazing places I have been to, and in return I learn so much about those I haven't been yet. My "to travel" list is ever-growing!

My favourite quote comes from Mark Twain; "Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do, than by the ones you did do". Renee

Hi, I’m Carmel Layton. Travel has been a huge part of my life from my first trip overseas as a 6 year old to travelling independently in my twenties and I have travelled to over 72 countries around the world, it has always been a key ingredient in my life.

I am an experienced and passionate travel professional with over 15 years in the industry. From a short South Pacific getaway to a trip around the globe, I look forward to helping you realise your travel dreams.

Having spent 40+ years, 30 owning my own HOT outlet here in the heart of Wellington, in this exciting and ever changing industry you could say that extraordinary resilience is at the top of my skite sheet given the many and varying challenges that have faced travellers over the years.

My clients and colleagues describe me as a passionate people person, who endeavours to get the best out of a traveller's investment.

It is important for me to be inclusive of everyone within a travelling party, to hear the voice of each traveller, and ensure everyone's wishes are met.

Having been to all continents bar Antarctica which is high on my list, I have also travelled in all styles from budget overland backpacking to luxury cruises which allows me to relate to all clients and work with you for what is best for you. 

Petra