Planit

In Founder Focus we introduce entrepreneurs and change-makers working on innovative startups, social enterprises and SME’s around Aotearoa New Zealand.

At a glance

Founder: Nick Bolton

Business: Planit

Founded: 2018

HQ: Otago

Can you tell us a bit about your business?

Planit is all about simplifying travel experiences from start to finish. Our platform, the Planit App is your ultimate travel companion, seamlessly integrating itinerary management, personalised recommendations from local travel experts, and direct communication with tourism operators. We like to think of it like having your own personal travel concierge right at your fingertips who can amend your itinerary in real time.

With Planit, you’re not just a tourist; you’re an explorer. We’ve packed our platform with insider insights about local areas. So, whether you’re into historical landmarks, cultural hotspots, or outdoor adventures, you can dive into your destination with a deeper understanding. With a travel expert on hand at all times.

We partner with accommodation providers that refer to us as their chosen booking platform. It’s a win-win situation. They offer an even more enriched experience by referring guests to incredible attractions through our app. At the same time, they are reaping the rewards for enhancing their guests stay with little to no effort on their part. It’s all about making your journey seamless and unforgettable.

We’re dedicated to expanding our offerings, crafting new features that enrich our customers journey and elevate their experiences.

What’s the backstory for your business idea?

With almost a decade of experience in the dynamic tourism sector, I found myself in Queenstown in 2017. As I was going about my day-to-day job every other person I spoke to was staying in a local Airbnb. Engaging in conversations with numerous visitors, a common thread emerged – the absence of a streamlined platform for booking experiences and accessing local insights during their stays. That is what initially sparked the idea of Planit Airbnb, initially conceived to bridge this gap.

A little more research revealed an unmet need in the market, propelling the transformation to Planit Bnb and eventually, the name that resonates today, Planit. Initially centred around short-term holiday rentals, we quickly expanded our reach to encompass motels, hotels, and beyond. Presently, our platform boasts a network of up to 4500 guest rooms in Queenstown alone. We plan to expand to new regions.

What programmes, learning or mentoring, or resources have been of assistance so far?

My advice would be to listen to others who have the experience and absorb as much information from them as possible. It doesn’t necessarily matter who but you can always find a nugget of gold that can spark something great just by having a conversation.