Kellie Challis

Juggling motherhood and a career is nothing new for Kellie Chellis, who graduated in 2000 from the Auckland Institute of Studies (AIS) St Helens with a Diploma in Travel Studies. At that time she was a single mum with a passion for travel. She decided the best way to support her family whilst also giving them an opportunity to see the world was to gain a travel industry qualification. However going back to school was not an easy option.

“It was very difficult studying for six months and looking after my kids at the same time. They would go to bed and then I’d study until midnight. In the first semester I was studying in the day and working at night because we really needed the money. My friends would come down and look after my kids.”

However Kellie never thought about giving up and says the struggle was well worth the effort. “I’m not a quitter. I never quit. Luckily we had an excellent class at AIS so that helped me. My classmates ranged from 17- 45 years old – it was a real family atmosphere.”

Kellie says studying at AIS St Helens undoubtedly helped her get a job. “People do take on inexperienced people, but it’s easier to train someone who knows what they’re talking about. So after my course it was much easier to get work.”

Before she even completed her course she was employed by World Aviation Systems. She worked there for 21 months as a ticketing and reservations consultant, before moving onto Air New Zealand. Now, with partner Mark and their four children, Kellie continues to manage a hectic lifestyle, but wouldn’t have it any other way. “Working for Air New Zealand is really good. I’m having a great time.”

Currently in Agency Sales and Support, Kellie and her team service all the agents in Australia and New Zealand. “Most people work here for about two years and then move onto another area within the company. It’s a really great place to make contacts.”