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| Media Release Hospitality Association backs Tourism Industry Election Manifesto The Hospitality Association of New Zealand (HANZ) today gave its backing to the Tourism Industry Election Manifesto produced by the Tourism industry Association (TIA). Bruce Robertson, Chief Executive of HANZ, said the hospitality industry profited from a strong tourism sector. “The manifesto focuses on the right priorities that if implemented would see both the tourism and hospitality industries prosper”. HANZ was particularly supportive of the priority given to work skills and training. “Getting people with the right skills at the right time and then retaining them is probably the biggest challenge facing the hospitality industry. If the training and work skills initiatives contained in the Manifesto can be successfully implemented then the industry will have taken a big step forward”. Mr Robertson said it was important also to have immigration policies to grow the workforce. “Current rules around immigration do not help business, in particular the seasonal demands of the hospitality industry. I hope an incoming government can introduce immigration laws and other employment schemes that make it easier for tourism and hospitality businesses to take on workers”, said Mr Robertson. The focus on major events was also welcomed. “Major events, like the Rugby World Cup in 2011, provide a real boost for HANZ businesses and can help operators through some of the leaner periods of the year”, said Mr Robertson. HANZ also supported the focus on marketing, especially efforts to promote more domestic tourism as well as more investment in infrastructure. For further information and comment contact: Bruce Robertson |
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