Rochelle Tait

Tourism Management graduate Rochelle Tait shares how study, part time roles, and networking led to policy roles supporting Aotearoa’s tourism sector.

I’ve felt drawn to tourism from a young age as a way to connect with the world, sparked by family camping trips around Aotearoa and some overseas travel. One of my earliest memories of wanting to work in tourism is at primary school where I would play pretend travel agent —I already knew I wanted to work in tourism, even if I wasn’t sure what that pathway looked like after high school.

Exploring different study options led me to a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Tourism Management and Marketing. It was a great fit: I could build a broad commerce skillset while diving into Tourism-specific courses. I especially enjoyed the smaller classes, the range of guest lecturers, and the practical skills gained through the programme, particularly Tourism Research, which has been useful far beyond the tourism sector itself.

While studying, I worked in a variety of tourism roles that helped me build valuable skills on the ground. I gained experience at hotels through housekeeping roles, completed a summer internship with the Nelson Regional Tourism Organisation (RTO), did contract work for Pic’s Peanut Butter and the Wellington RTO, and worked at the Wellington i SITE. The tourism sector insights and experience I gained through these roles set me up well for future employment.

My first full-time role after graduating was as a Policy Advisor in the Tourism Policy branch at MBIE, a job I first heard about at a tourism networking event in Wellington. Although I didn’t have prior policy experience, the knowledge and skills I gained through my Tourism Management major and part‑time roles were crucial in securing my first role. They meant I already had a strong understanding of the tourism system, allowing me to focus on developing my policy capability. I loved this role and learnt a huge amount in a short time. One highlight was helping deliver policy initiatives to support tourism businesses affected by the COVID‑19 border closures.

I’m now a Senior Policy Advisor in the Tourism branch at MBIE (where I began), designing and delivering policy to support a thriving tourism sector in Aotearoa New Zealand. I came back to MBIE on a secondment from Manatū Taonga—Ministry for Culture and Heritage, where I’ve been strengthening my policy skills in areas that intersect with tourism. Working in government gives you a unique view of the entire tourism system, and navigating shifting political environments keeps the work interesting. Arts, culture, and heritage are a vital part of New Zealand’s tourism offering, so my tourism background has been equally valuable in my role at Manatū Taonga.

My main advice to students is to make the most of every opportunity available through your course, no matter how small, as these experiences help set you up for success after graduation. Pay attention to the courses you enjoy most and where your strengths lie — this insight will serve you well as you navigate and consider career pathways when you graduate.