First graduates raise the bar

Thursday, 19 March 2009, 9:25 am
Press Release: Destination Queenstown

Wednesday 18 March 2009
For immediate release

First graduates raise the bar for Adventure Tourism in Queenstown

New Zealand’s first wave of Adventure Tourism graduates will help raise the bar for Queenstown’s tourism industry, according to Destination Queenstown CEO Stephen Pahl.

Students from Queenstown Resort College’s Diploma of Adventure Tourism Management are about to graduate, and Mr Pahl applauded the College, saying it provided a valuable programme that would enhance Queenstown’s reputation in providing quality tourism experiences.

“Adventure tourism requires a unique set of skills and training so it’s great to see an educational facility working closely with industry to deliver such a relevant programme.  It will go a long way to future proofing Queenstown’s and New Zealand’s tourism,” he said.

 “We’re known as the Adventure Capital of the World so it’s appropriate that we develop and nurture the next generation of adventure tourism professionals.”

Mr Pahl said Queenstown was proud of the innovation of its adventure tourism businesses and the high standards of operation.

“The Diploma of Adventure Tourism curriculum mirrors industry standards to ensure the students are trained with the most up-to date and relevant information in work place standards.  Ultimately, it’s arming them with the necessary tools to manage and deliver a superior tourism product.”

Queenstown Resort College (QRC) offers a range of training courses in tourism and hospitality courses which Mr Pahl says play a significant part in safeguarding the region’s excellent reputation as industry leader.

“Maintaining a high standard of service in all areas of tourism is vital if we’re to continue to appeal as a globally competitive destination.  I congratulate the 41 graduates from Adventure Tourism and Hospitality and encourage Queenstown businesses to get behind QRC to ensure we keep these fantastic graduates in Queenstown,” he said.

The graduation ceremony will be held on Saturday 21 March at the Millennium Hotel Queenstown with Deputy Prime Minister and Clutha-Southland MP Bill English attending as the official guest of honour.

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