New tourism package hopes to attract more New Zealanders to the sector

The tourism industry is launching a new package with hopes of attracting more New Zealanders to a career in the sector.

The three-year package was launched at TRENZ 2019 today.

The package was designed to improve perceptions of the careers, make it easier for young people to experience tourism careers with placements and open days, and ensure a positive experience for those in tourism employment.

The initiative's aim to help attract the estimated 40,000 new employees needed to support tourism growth over the next five years.

In 2018, Tourism Industry Aotearoa undertook perceptions research to better understand what young Kiwis thought about working in tourism and who influenced their thinking.

This research offered new insights for industry employers and educators so they could attract more young people and retain and develop them so they have sustainable career pathways.

It found that parents and teachers were enormously influential in career choice. Tourism jobs were also perceived as having average pay and being short-term.

"The perceptions research provided the basis for our business case. After extensive consultation with industry members around the country, we are excited to launch this package of eight initiatives today," TIA chief executive Chris Roberts said.

The complete package is estimated to cost $1.9 million and Tourism Industry Aotearoa was currently seeking funding from government and other sources.

"This package has the potential to make a real difference to our industry's future," said Roberts.