Tourism Minister, Peeni Henare says the Government’s Tourism and Hospitality Better Work Action Plan will strengthen New Zealand’s tourism workforce and support career pathways, pay and working conditions.
“New Zealand continues to be one of the world’s top tourism destinations, and with the borders open, international visitors are returning. We need to support our sector to rebuild a more resilient future that leaves people, communities and the environment better off than before,” Mr Henare said.
The Minister says an investment of $18.22 million will help to implement initiatives like the establishment of a tourism and hospitality accreditation scheme – a voluntary scheme that identifies businesses in tourism and hospitality who are treating their staff well.
“This investment will also contribute to better education and training and improve opportunities for those who choose tourism as a career,” he said.
“Being able to demonstrate you are good employer will go a long way to helping a business attract quality staff and helping workers to find great employers.
“Ensuring staff have a pathway to upskilling is also a focus and there will be closer collaboration between industry and education providers so the right skills are being taught to fill the jobs the sector needs. Education and training will look ahead to better prepare workers for the tourism jobs of the future.”
He said the Government will also test whether employee-sharing can reduce the unstable and seasonal elements of tourism.
“Aotearoa New Zealand has a powerful identity as a tourism destination, shaped by our values of manaakitanga and kaitiakitanga. We have a lot to be proud of and a solid foundation to build on, and post-Covid we have had a unique opportunity to rethink our approach.”
“Our ambition is a tourism industry that gives back more than it takes from people, communities and the environment. The Tourism Industry Transformation Plan is driving the long-term change needed to address systemic issues standing in the way of that aspiration and to make the most of opportunities.
“This change must start with looking after the people at the heart of every tourism experience – our tourism kaimahi. We will deliver better outcomes for employees, businesses and visitors if we offer better experiences within the industry,” Mr Henare said.