Ngāi Tahu Tourism scholar’s first day

Ngāi Tahu Tourism scholar’s first day

Ngāi Tahu Tourism has appointed Ashleigh Howell as its 2018 Te Pia Tāpoi scholarship recipient and she starts her studies this Monday (15 January).

Originally from Palmerston North, Ashleigh will be undertaking diploma studies with the New Zealand School of Tourism in Dunedin.

The scholarship was open to Ngāi Tahu students and includes study fee support, paid holiday work and opportunities to grow cultural skills and learn more about Ngāi Tahu. It’s one of many initiatives Ngāi Tahu offers to help its young people complete tertiary study and develop into careers.

Chief Executive Quinton Hall says, “Tourism is New Zealand’s biggest export earner and one of the most dynamic sectors to work in. This is one way we can encourage more Ngāi Tahu to consider the tourism industry as an exciting and worthwhile career option.”

Mr Hall says the Te Pia Tāpoi scholarship attracted a strong pool of candidates, and it was great to have Ashleigh on board.

Ashleigh is studying a Diploma in Tourism and Travel Management. Her goal is to open a tourist retreat in New Zealand to run special events. Since the age of 14 Ashley has worked while going to school, always in customer focused roles. She has carried out sales work at Palmers Garden World, events coordination at Summerset Retirement Village, barista work at New World Pioneer Highway and checkout operating and front of house work at The Co-Op Bar and Restaurant.

Developing a strong work ethic in her upbringing, Ashleigh also helped less fortunate children with homework and afterschool mentoring. She is now passionate about the tourism industry and eager to further connect with her iwi (tribe).

“I’m interested in resort and hotel management, and adventure tourism,” Ashleigh says. “I was so happy when I found out I got the scholarship – I cried! I’m looking forward to learning so much more about tourism and Ngāi Tahu, and I’m so thankful for this opportunity.” Ashleigh has whakapapa to Ngāi Tūāhuriri, Ngāi Te Ruahikihiki and Ngāti Makō.

Ngāi Tahu Tourism owns and operates some of the most iconic experiences in Aotearoa, from the thrills of Shotover Jet to the tranquillity of the Hollyford Valley. We have 10 businesses in spectacular locations and host one million visitors each year.

ENDS

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