About Us

Benji Christie
Founder & Managing Director

Under Benji's leadership, Zen Luxury Retreats has set new standards in luxury travel, offering exclusive, sophisticated accommodations in Darwin that prioritise privacy and comfort. His strategic insight and understanding of customer needs drives the business.

Benji has a Bachelor of Health Science in Health Promotion and Health Services Management from Charles Darwin University and 10+ years' experience in health promotion, community service and project management.

Before founding the company, Benji contributed to public health and community engagement at Menzies School of Health Research, Royal Darwin Hospital and the Council for Aboriginal Alcohol Program Services. His dedication to addressing public health issues influenced his approach to luxury travel, which is quality, sustainability and customer satisfaction.

Aruni  Senanyake
Accommodation Manager

Aruni has 18 years' experience in tourism and hospitality across five countries, including key positions in Singapore, Dubai and Qatar, where she boosted revenue and customer satisfaction, and at a five-star hotel in Melbourne as In-House Sales Manager. Since 2021, she's worked with us, demonstrating exceptional leadership and management skills.

Aruni holds a Bachelor of Tourism & Hospitality Management from Australia (2019) and Diploma from Singapore (2016). She's earned prestigious awards of Best Accommodation Manager of 2024 in the Northern Territory and Territory Champion of February 2024 from Tourism Top End.

Therese Nicole Cruz
Virtual Vacation Rental Manager

Nikki brings nine years of call centre experience, having excelled in various roles, from Team Facilitator to Billing Specialist with US healthcare leaders. Now working remotely, she supervises e-commerce and property management teams, enhancing guest experiences in short-term rentals and addressing critical concerns. Her diverse skills in customer service, remote management and administration enable her to effectively drive organisational success.

Chris Christie
Operations Manager

Chris looks after all property maintenance and management, ensuring top-quality service. He coordinates maintenance schedules, manages renovations and handles vendor relationships for timely, cost-effective solutions. Working closely with housekeeping and maintenance, Chris addresses any issues promptly, enhancing guest comfort and satisfaction.

Before joining us, Chris held key positions in property management and operations, where he developed his skills in project management, facility maintenance and team leadership.

Rohit Kansra
Accounts & Administration

Rohit oversees accounts, administration, payroll and HR at Zen Luxury Retreats. His accounting and hospitality background helps ensure smooth operations. He manages budgets, forecasts and financial reports while streamlining processes and implementing best practices, contributing significantly to the company’s growth and success.

Rohit's leadership at Zen Luxury Retreats combines financial management and operational efficiency, driving our success in the competitive hospitality industry.

Sahan Sudeepa
IT Business Analyst

Sahan, an IT business analyst with a Master's in Information Technology from Deakin University and a Bachelor's in Marketing and Management from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, combines technical expertise with business acumen. His skills in web development and automation, digital marketing and social media management have driven business growth and streamlined operations in the tourism and hospitality industry.

Sahan utilises analytics tools to monitor guest feedback and identify areas for improvement. He effectively manages technology initiatives that align with our objectives and is passionate about integrating internet, social media and technology.

Therese Nicole Cruz
Virtual Vacation Rental Manager

Nikki brings nine years of call centre experience, having excelled in various roles, from Team Facilitator to Billing Specialist with US healthcare leaders. Now working remotely, she supervises e-commerce and property management teams, enhancing guest experiences in short-term rentals and addressing critical concerns. Her diverse skills in customer service, remote management and administration enable her to effectively drive organisational success.

Lilet Francisco
Virtual Guest Relations Specialist

Lilet brings unparalleled expertise in guest satisfaction and administrative support, enhancing guest experiences. She works hard to resolve guest concerns and answer enquiries. Her organisational skills contribute to Zen Luxury Retreats' smooth operation, aiming for every guest to have a memorable stay.

Maricel Pantoja
Virtual Guest Relations Specialist

Maricel, a recent addition to the team, delivers exceptional guest experiences. Her role encompasses managing guest enquiries, ensuring guest satisfaction and coordinating property maintenance to uphold the highest standards of hospitality. She's quickly become a valuable asset with her attention to detail, strong organisational skills and proactive approach to guest relations.

Joy Anne Gorospe
Virtual Guest Relations Specialist & Media Marketing Assistant

Joy excels in guest relations and creative marketing at Zen Luxury Retreats. She manages guest enquiries, resolves issues and develops engaging marketing strategies and content to enhance the company's brand and attract new guests. Her enthusiasm and multitasking skills ensure exceptional guest experiences.