Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti
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Tairāwhiti is building itself as a destination, not just a stop off, as New Zealanders seek to explore their own back yard more and more.
This is the view of a newcomer to the tourism industry, student and Isite visitor information officer, Ewan Sinclair.
The 22-year-old has a huge interest in the history of the region and is buzzing about the potential.
“There are the stingrays, rail bikes, Rere rockslide… and the big events like R and V. There is so much to do here and Gisborne will establish itself as a destination more and more in the years to come.”
Cultural tourism is another opportunity for this district.
“We are a unique part of the country – the district is steeped in history.”
The arrival of the pandemic Covid 19 has not changed his thinking toward a career in tourism.
“It will always be a thing. People always want to travel and see different things. I thought I will study in the slump and come out when its booming.”
Working full time and studying at the same time means Ewan is “very busy”.
“But I enjoy doing it. It has never felt like a chore … I chugg along doing the reports and when I’m at work at the Isite I want to sell the region.
“The job helps my study and the study helps my job. I feel so lucky to have the synergy between them,” says Ewan.
The former Gisborne Boys’ High School student originally from Scotland says tourism was a natural path because travel has been an important part of his life.
“After I left school I travelled to Canada and America. I was super lucky this happened before Covid. Travelling really opened my eyes to tourism.
“I really want to see the world and show others the world too.”
