From Bold Beginnings to International Success

From a bold beginning just weeks before the world shut down, to a thriving international travel business, this year’s Small Business of the Year winner is a true story of resilience, vision and passion.

Great Days New Zealand Tours is a specialist travel company offering unforgettable self-drive and small group tours for international visitors. Founded by Andreas Schmiedel, who has a deep love for Aotearoa, the business launched just eight weeks before the COVID-19 border closures. While the global tourism industry came to a standstill, Andreas used this unexpected pause to carefully position the business in the European market as a personalised, high-quality alternative to larger operators.

Turning Challenges into Growth

When borders reopened, Andreas hit the ground running, turning a tough start into remarkable progress. Since the beginning, he has seen substantial growth, with a 31% increase in turnover in the last financial year, and the business continues to grow. In April, he successfully launched two international web domains, marking a major step toward expanding beyond the German-speaking market and establishing a global presence. Andreas has also made significant operational adjustments, streamlined back-office processes and improved invoicing systems, particularly in handling foreign currencies more efficiently.

To gain traction as a newcomer, Andreas initially kept profit margins relatively low. For the current fiscal year, he has increased those margins by 3%, reflecting the confidence and stability he has built into the business. Along the way, he has navigated a steep learning curve, mastering many new processes. This experience has allowed him to put solid internal structures in place, enabling Great Days New Zealand Tours to operate more productively and efficiently.

What Sets Great Days Apart

What sets Great Days New Zealand Tours apart is Andreas’ deep commitment to showcasing the best of New Zealand, its landscapes, local operators and culture, through authentic, customised itineraries. Whether it’s a scenic road trip or a small group guided tour, his guests experience Aotearoa the way it should be, up close, personal and unforgettable.

Expert Support from SBA Browns Bay

“This remarkable progress wouldn’t have been possible without the steady support of SBA Browns Bay. From the very beginning, I’ve relied on SBA’s expert guidance across tax matters, business processes and financial planning. Whether navigating complex tax requirements or identifying areas for future improvement, SBA’s practical and reliable advice has played a key role in helping Great Days New Zealand Tours grow with confidence. Backed by this consistent partnership, I’ve built strong foundations, clear goals and an exciting future.”  Andreas Schmiedel, Founder, Great Days New Zealand Tours.

Celebrating Success

Andreas Schmiedel’s story is one of perseverance, purpose and pride, and we’re thrilled to recognise Great Days New Zealand Tours as this year’s SBA Small Business of the Year. Congratulations from everyone at SBA Small Business Accounting.

To visit Great Days New Zealand Tours’ website, click here.