Catering for Japanese

Press, 8 March 1988, Page 30

Catering for Japanese

By

TONY ORMAN

New Zealanders are to get Intensive training in welcoming Japanese tourists thanks to a joint effort by the Pacific Asia Travel Association and the New Zealand Tourist and Publicity Department.

Mr Duncan Hamilton, chairman of the New Zealand Chapter of PATA, is delighted with the concept of making New Zealanders sensitive to the culture and needs of Japanese visitors to New Zealand.

“I couldn’t think of a better way to further the tourist industry. It’s sensible, practical and of immense benefit in view of the current growth and potential of the Japanese market,” he said. The programme aimed to improve and increase the New Zealand tourist industry’s understanding and skills in hosting Japanese visitors, will include a video presentation of Japanese tourists in New Zealand with additional videos and written material on developing skills.

“The Japanese and indeed Asian market is vital to New Zealand’s tourism industry,” says Duncan Hamilton. The project is to be developed and managed by Paul McNabb and Setsuko McFarlane, of the department’s head office and Mr Giles Brooker, of the Department of Education. Funding was provided with base finance by PATA and contributions by the New Zealand Tourist and Publicity Department.