Amy’s journey with QRC began in 2017 and has taken her from Rarotonga to various locations across the South Pacific. Along the way, she developed an interest in super yachting, leading to a position in Australia’s Kimberley Region. Over the past four years, Amy has expanded her skills and experienced once-in-a-lifetime adventures on the water.
Why did you choose to study Adventure Tourism Management?
- At a career expo at my high school, I saw banners of people bungy jumping and studying in Queenstown. As an adventure seeker, I was intrigued and quickly sold on the opportunity to study, play and live in Queenstown. Before being introduced to QRC, I was considering becoming a helicopter pilot or paramedic, which I still might pursue someday. At eighteen I felt QRC was the right choice for me.
What was the most memorable part of your time at QRC?
- The weekend hikes, camping up mountains, and freezing cold swims at Bobs Cove. The social life for sure– I met three of my best friends at QRC and we still share very similar outlooks on life, career and adventure. Getting out of my comfort zone whenever possible, via mountain biking, via ferrata, ice skating and lake swims– all beside people I was studying alongside.
Where did you do your internship, what was your role there and what was something you learnt on internship?
- For my internship I went to the Bay of Islands. Two friends and I secured an old beach house in Paihia and worked for Fullers Greatsights (now ‘Explore Group’). My daily job included preparing lunches, swimming with dolphins, sharing the culture and history of Tai Tokerau (Northland), and ensuring customer comfort onboard our vessels. My role was deckhand, and one key thing I learned was the importance of balancing safety and fun at work. Especially when hundreds of people are trusting you to do your job effectively so that they can have a safe, enjoyable time out on the water. Growing in maturity during this internship was crucial for finding this balance.
Tell us about your journey post QRC – Where have you worked, travelled, studied? What have you been doing since QRC?
- It’s been exciting, busy, vibrant, exhausting.
I’ve worked through the Cook Islands, Mentawai Islands, French Polynesia, Fiji, Mexico, America, New Zealand, and Australia. I’ve done further study in nutrition and property management. I’ve travelled through Sri Lanka with my sister, as well as Costa Rica and Mexico.
I’m currently working as a personal chef for a beautiful family on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland.
Can you share a proud moment or significant achievement from your career?
- One of the most significant milestones in my career was during the 2024 yacht charters in French Polynesia. Entrusted with guests investing six-figure sums for their stay, our crew was dedicated to ensuring their safety and enjoyment every minute. In my dual role as chef and administration manager, I was responsible for delivering exceptional meals and making sure all the plans went smoothly while they were onboard. Seeing them so happy and content at the end of their trip was so satisfying and really summed up how far I’ve come professionally.
How did QRC prepare you for the challenges of your career?
- QRC taught me practical skills such as accounting, risk management and human resources. Having this certification has helped progress my career and enhanced my ability to learn new roles with greater ease.
What do you love most about working in the Adventure Tourism industry?
- Transitioning slowly out of this industry, as I’m finding more balance between routine, adventure and quiet time. However, one thing I love about tourism is the excitement on customers faces when you help them have a once in a lifetime experience. It’s a special feeling that makes me super grateful for the work I do.
What excites you about the future of Adventure Tourism?
- The immersion of sustainability and education throughout the industry. Seeing more companies going ‘green’ is great to see. Especially because in tourism we are so close to mother nature. Whether that is on the reef, in the sky, in the mountains, or deep in the forest – we see the direct impact that we are having on Papatūānuku. By incorporating more sustainable business practises and education for customers, we can make a difference to our future.
What advice would you give current QRC students?
- Upskill, ask questions, volunteer at places you’re interested in, reach out to potential employers, write a really good CV.
Study Adventure Tourism Management or Hospitality Management.
