New Zealand Government unveils plan for tourism industry transformation

New Zealand Minister of Tourism Stuart Nash has unveiled a draft plan that aims to transform the nation’s tourism industry with a focus on sustainability.

Unveiling the draft of the He Mahere Tiaki Kaimahi/Industry Transformation Better Work Action Plan at the Tourism Export Council of New Zealand’s annual conference in Nelson yesterday, Minister Nash delivered a vision of how to change that perception, improve conditions and strengthen the workforce through a “regenerative tourism system”.

One key area of the plan is the current staffing shortage being felt across all areas of the tourism industry, with Minister Nash saying it was necessary to create “attractive career pathways” into the sector, noting “now our borders are fully open, there’s a strong uptick in arrivals, and we’re anticipating a surging summer of tourism.

“It’s time to look ahead to the future of the sector and ensure we do not just go back to the way things were, but learn from the challenges of the past few years and rebuild in a stronger and more sustainable way.

“The action plan sets out a vision for the New Zealand tourism sector that is regenerative - where tourism is giving back more than it takes from people, communities, and the environment.”

Stating that the industry was often a stepping stone, not a destination for many workers, Minister Nash commented “many New Zealanders start their careers in tourism or a hospitality job, often the students or temporary jobs before they find 'a real job'.

"But we have done - I believe - a poor job of creating an aspirational career pathway in tourism for young people when they're considering their employment options."

Some of the plans key pillars include improving education and training and employee experience and future-proofing the industry through technology and innovation.

More resources for business owners and operators and a new Tourism and Hospitality Accord to set employment standards are also on the agenda.

Welcoming the plan, Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA), Chief Executive, Rebecca Ingram advised “a recent survey carried out by TIA found that getting the right people in the right place in the right roles is the biggest concern for tourism employers around the country.

“The survey showed that 75% of tourism businesses are currently recruiting, and 58% of roles on offer are full time positions.”

Stating that the TIA will be heavily involved in the consultation process, Ingram added “a group of industry leaders has put considerable time and energy into developing the draft document.

“TIA will be actively taking part in the consultation process, with the objective of building a more sustainable workforce model for our members and individuals who choose to build their career in tourism.”

Feedback on the Action Plan closes middle of next month, with the final plan expected to be released before the end of the year.

For more information go to www.mbie.govt.nz/have-your-say/better-work-action-plan/

Images: Minister Nash at the Tourism Export Council of New Zealand’s annual conference in Nelson yesterday.