Locals loving tourists more with ambassador programme

Media release from Queenstown Resort College

THURSDAY JUNE 13, 2013
(EMBARGOED UNTIL 5PM THURSDAY)

Locals loving tourists more with Queenstown Ambassador programme

Queenstown is positioning itself as a world-class centre for service excellence with the launch of a new initiative aimed at locals helping tourists.

The Queenstown Ambassador Programme is a scheme for local residents, designed to give friendly, positive information about the resort to visitors. It was officially launched at Queenstown Resort College this afternoon.

The programme is a cooperative initiative started by Queenstown Resort College and has had the input of major Queenstown tourism operators AJ Hackett Bungy, NZSki, Real Journeys, Ngai Tahu Tourism, Ziptrek Ecotours, as well as key local retailers and hospitality operators. Destination Queenstown and the Queenstown Chamber of Commerce have also been involved.

The Queenstown Ambassador Programme is being offered to everyone in Queenstown – not just front-line staff. Participants take a short, affordable course that provides interesting and useful information on Queenstown’s history, culture and offerings. Once the course is completed, participants become volunteer Ambassadors – wearing a recognisable black badge and are available to help tourists on the ground.

“The Queenstown Ambassador Programme recognises the value of visitors and provides participants with a positive mindset to help people on their holiday here,” Queenstown Resort College chief executive Charlie Phillips says.

“Tourists’ spending supports local businesses and in turn the local community. We are all in this together, so everyone should get behind this and become an Ambassador. You’ll be surprised at what you can learn about Queenstown – and it’s fun.

“It’s about respecting tourists, showing them how great Queenstown really is and leaving a legacy – making a difference in people’s lives. We want Queenstown to be known as offering outstanding, consistently exceptional service,” he adds.

The initiative has the backing of Queenstown Lakes District Council.

Mayor Vanessa van Uden says: “Regardless of the destination it is always the contact with locals that cements the appeal of a location and a desire to return or encourage others to visit. This is a great initiative which will have huge benefits for the Queenstown Lakes and one that I whole-heartedly support and encourage everyone to participate in.”

Queenstown Resort College chairman Sir Eion Edgar says the college is delighted to be the initiator of the Ambassador Programme.

“We see ourselves as an important part of the community, and are always looking for ways to be of benefit,” he says.

The Queenstown Ambassador Programme runs every Friday at Queenstown Resort College, from 9am-noon and costs $30 per person to attend. Only one session is necessary to become an Ambassador. The first programme begins on June 21. Registration closes each Wednesday at 5pm – there are places for up to 30 participants each session.

ENDS

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