Ruapehu Kiwi hosts

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 9, Issue 401, 27 August 1991, Page 5

Ruapehu Kiwi hosts

Over 300 people have attended the Kiwi Host hospitality programme currently being run by Ruapehu Alpine Lifts at Whakapapa. The nationally recognized course was originally set up here for RAL staff but has been expanded to include local accommodation operators, ski shops and alternative activity operators. The course identifies the importance of the visitor industry in New Zealand in general and the Ruapehu region in particular. It homes in on the communication process, concentrating on effective listening skills and dealing with customer complaints. By the end of the day-long course participants are much better prepared to deal with the public. RAL's Staff Training Supervisor Celia Walmsley has been running the course. She is a National Training Coordinator and has been training the other course lcaders throughout the North Island for the last four months. She is particularly happy with the response in the Ruapehu Region. "It makes very good sense for this area to fully participate in the national programme," she said. "Employment in this area increases 600% over the winter months. It is imperative that visitors receive the best possible service so that their total holiday experience is a positive one, from their accommodation to the skiing and other activities. Judging by the keenness of the participants this type of course has been needed for some time." The Taumauranui Development Office, Taupo Information Centre and Ruapehu Visitor Centre in Ohakune have information on further courses in the area.