Rebekah is a QRC graduate who has built an impressive career across New Zealand’s tourism and hospitality industry. Since completing her studies, she has worked with iconic organisations including AJ Hackett Bungy, Destination Queenstown, and the Grand Millennium Auckland, as well as launching her own business, Try Local.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Rebekah created Try Local to showcase and support New Zealand’s tourism and hospitality operators, encouraging Kiwis to back local businesses during a pivotal time for the industry. Her passion for people and building meaningful connections has been a constant throughout her career.
Today, Rebekah works in Air New Zealand’s Corporate and Government Sales Team – a role that aligns closely with her values and allows her to continue doing what she loves. She considers herself fortunate to be part of a company she is truly passionate about and proudly says, “I love my job!”
What was the most memorable part of your time at QRC?
- I was fortunate enough to have some fantastic teachers, and mentors, that I felt really cared about my future. To feel valued is one of the most important things, in schooling, and in your career. Being exposed to many parts of how a business works – even the sides you aren’t necessarily originally interested in, are so important.
Where did you complete your internship, what was your role there?
- I was the first person from QRC to do an internship with AJ Hackett Bungy in Auckland. My role was a mixed bag of everything; frontline sales, bridge climb guide, driver, photographer… You name it, I did it! It was a fantastic way to soak up every part of a business and gain knowledge in areas I wouldn’t usually have access to. I learned there how imperative a great team is. To have people that support you, through the good and bad, is something so important. I’ll forever look back at that job with fantastic memories.
Tell us about your journey post QRC – Where have you worked, travelled, studied?
- I have worked in Tourism, hotels, a Regional Tourism Organisation, started my own business (in the Hospitality and Tourism industry), and now work for an airline. I’ve lived in Queenstown and Auckland, with small stints in both Brisbane and Amsterdam. Travel has always been at the forefront of what I love to do, so I have been to many, many places over the years, but always feel like there’s no place like home!
Where are you working now?
- I am currently working at Air New Zealand, in the Corporate & Government Sales team.
Can you share a proud moment or significant achievement from your career?
- Starting my own business during Covid – Try Local – will forever be something I am proud of. I got to work with some incredible businesses, including tiny independent family owned operators, who will always have a special place in my heart. I was so passionate about helping the Tourism and Hospitality Businesses during such a hard time, that I will always feel a sense of pride – and love – when I look back at Try Local.
What excites you about the future of Adventure Tourism?
- Tourism is an ever-evolving machine. The thing about tourism, which I strongly believe will always be consistent, is the heart. It’s an industry that really feels like something special. Everyone knows everyone, and those who leave, always come back. Being surrounded by people who are so passionate about something that feels so big is fantastic. I feel very confident that this will always be at the forefront of the industry. I’m excited to see where the future takes us, but also really proud to know that wherever we land, we have some strong foundations built off of something great.
What advice would you give current QRC students?
- Always put yourself out there. Everything is so much bigger than your classroom – it’s about who you are, and who you meet. Both the tourism and hospitality industries in New Zealand are so intertwined, that connections can get you to places you never thought you would land. I always say lead with kindness, and that lends itself to QRC too – you never know who is sitting next to you at your local café, or who is coming in to mentor you for a paper. The roots of the industry are so large, that it’s important to put yourself out there, and back yourself, and make those connections where you can, including beyond the classroom.
Learn more about our Adventure Tourism Management and Hospitality Management Diplomas.
