Minister shows faith in tourism

Attitude and punctuality were the lessons of the day when Associate Tourism Minister Paula Bennett met with students from the New Zealand School of Tourism. Photo / Stephen Parker

The future for those in the tourism and service industry in Rotorua is looking good, according to Associate Tourism Minister Paula Bennett.

Mrs Bennett was in Rotorua for the Local Government New Zealand Conference but took some time yesterday afternoon to meet and speak with 12 students from the New Zealand School of Tourism, formerly known as Sir George Seymour National College.

She said it was important for students to know working in the service and tourism industry could lead to a career, as the tourism industry grew and international standards of service were expected.

"To be fair the jobs are there. I have just been talking to Destination Rotorua and the projected growth with visitors coming and expectations around customer service is huge. It's important we are investing in our young people to have a sense of place in service."

She said workers should be fairly paid for their hard work.

"The food and beverage industry is hard and in New Zealand we have a culture of not tipping."

She said many students were leaving school without basic life skills.

"Really that needs to go back to school; what good customer service means. Simple things like eye contact, how to shake a hand."

New Zealand School of Tourism student Georgia Earle said she was inspired by Mrs Bennett's question and answer session.

"She was happy and laughing with us and relatable, she was really down to earth."