Waiheke Island has two friendly, new faces welcoming visitors this summer.
Shania Perry and Olga Malakhova – two students with a passion for the tourism industry – have been appointed by Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED) to fill the role of ‘greeters’ to visitors arriving at Matiatia Wharf.
Shania has recently completed year 13 at Waiheke Island High School while Olga, originally from Russia, is an International Travel College student undertaking her final year for a diploma in Tourism Management.
Through the support and guidance of career advisors and the Tourism team at ATEED, the students landed the job as the island’s new greeters to visitors.
This summer job opportunity gives the pair a chance to gauge career options in tourism and build their interpersonal and communication skills, as well as providing advice and suggestions on what Waiheke has to offer visitors.
Shania is thoroughly enjoying the chance to share with visitors some of the special parts of the island.
“Waiheke Island has so much to offer all visitors, whether it’s the many food and wine experiences, breath taking landscapes or cultural aspects, the list is almost endless.
“I’ve even been giving away some of my families’ favourite hidden gems for those interested in a local experience,” she says.
“It’s a great role to have and it’s helping me gain insight into the range of career opportunities available in the tourism industry, which at this stage of my life is invaluable.”
Olga Malakhova is also delighted to be helping visitors this summer and gaining real-life experience in the tourism industry.
“This role is the perfect opportunity for me to get as much experience while studying to become an employable candidate in the tourism industry,” she says.
The kiosk is part of a new model that is being trialled for the provision of visitor information. The focus is on providing visitors with local advice, direction and general information, as opposed to a booking service.
Olga and Shania meet ferries arriving at Matiatia Wharf, morning and early afternoon, seven days a week.
The Waiheke Island Tourism Forum has taken over responsibility for managing the brochures at the visitor information kiosk on the wharf.
For more information on Waiheke Island, visit www.aucklandnz.com/discover/waiheke-island.