Introducing Fiona – Our new Auckland City tutor!
Auckland City’s new tutor, Fiona!
The ITC family is one of real diversity. We come from all over Aotearoa, and we have all sorts of backgrounds and interests. The one thing we all have in common is real-world experience in travel and tourism!
Our newest recruit, Fiona, is no different. Bit early by the travel bug, Fiona has built a career on helping others to see the world and love their adventures, and on teaching travel and tourism.
We’re so excited to welcome her to the family, where she will be working as a tutor at the Auckland City campus. We chatted to Fiona to learn a little more!
How did you begin your passion for the tourism industry?
My passion for the tourism industry started more than 30 years ago when I travelled to Australia to visit my brother. That trip sparked a desire to see as much of the world as I could. From then on, travel became something I knew I wanted to be part of.
What does your travel industry history look like?
I began my career as a domestic travel agent in Auckland before moving to Sydney, where I spent seven years working in retail travel. During that time, I had the opportunity to travel myself and experience many parts of the world.
After returning to New Zealand to raise my children, I eventually came back to the industry by starting my own travel broker business in 2012, helping clients plan holidays and travel experiences around the world. In 2014, I also began teaching travel and tourism, which gradually became my main focus.
What was your favourite job you’ve done (aside from your new role at ITC!)?
Starting and running my own travel broker business was a very rewarding experience. I loved helping people create memorable travel experiences and building relationships with clients as I planned their holidays.
How will your experience help support students?
Having worked in different areas of the industry, from corporate and retail travel to running my own business, I can share real-life knowledge with students. I enjoy helping them build their confidence and find their own path in travel.
What are you looking forward to the most in your new role?
I’m really looking forward to getting to know the students and being part of their journey. It’s very rewarding to see their confidence grow and to help inspire the next generation of travel professionals.
What do you think are the most important skills to have in the tourism industry?
Good communication, organisation, and a genuine interest in helping people are all very important. The industry is also always changing, so being adaptable and open to learning is a big advantage.
What is your best advice for those getting into the industry now?
Stay curious and take every opportunity to learn. The travel industry offers so many different pathways, so gaining experience and building connections can open many doors.
Learn from experienced tutors like Fiona at ITC
Study at ITC, where the entire team has experience in the industry and is excited to share everything they’ve learned with you!
We’re enrolling now – so register today and kick start your own career in tourism and travel!
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