Equipping the people with the skills

Maori tourism is now being recognised as a specialist field, with the launch of three new qualifications aimed at those wishing to pursue a career in this arena.

Already two of the new qualifications - certificates in Tourism Maori level 3 and level 4 - have been registered on the national qualifications network. And the National Diploma in Tourism, level 5, is currently undergoing the quality assurance process.

The three new qualifications are part of the ‘Field Maori’ group of qualifications on the national framework and have been developed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority in consultation with a panel of experts in the business of Maori tourism.

‘Field Maori’ has grown from a base of tikanga, te reo Maori, whakairo and raranga, to include a diverse range of unit standards and qualifications. It now covers almost 500 unit standards, nine national certificates and five national diplomas which are specific to Maori.

The Manukau Institute of Technology will be the first provider in Aotearoa New Zealand to offer the level 3 certificate course, commencing at the beginning of semester two this year.

MIT’s executive director of academic development, Grace Sylvester, says the new qualification is an exciting step toward increasing participation by Maori in the New Zealand economy.

“MIT is enthusiastic about being able to offer a qualification that is tailored to meet a growing demand for Maori tourism products and professional services,” Grace says.

Associate Tourism Minister Dover Samuels - who has launched the new qualifications - says they will give momentum to what is an exciting and burgeoning industry for Maori.

“Those studying at this level will be getting qualifications directly related to helping them get jobs, set up their own businesses and be involved in all facets of the economy - particularly in those industries that have a strong Maori presence,” Dover says.

“This is an investment, not just in Maori, but in the future of New Zealand as a diverse and culturally unique society. This is a very welcome development.”