Dear Member,

It would be fair to say that even with Prime Minister John Key as Minister of Tourism, at ground level the accommodation sector still faces many challenges in running a successful business.

To help with these industry challenges, we launched our own Hospitality NZ Training Academy that is focused on improving business profitability and productivity.

The training academy consists of six comprehensive core business workshops along with other training opportunities to find smart and effective ways that will make your place a destination of choice and improve your profit margin.

Why not take a look at our national Training Academy calendar to find a workshop near you and book online today.

As always, one of our team experts is available 24 hours, 7 days a week to assist you with any hospitality enquiries or advice. Please do not hesitate to call on 0800 500 503.

Kind regards
Hospitality Association

Progress on potential ITOs merger - ATTTO, HSI and Retail Institute

Progress has been made following the proposed ITOs merger announcement in March of ATTTO, HSI and the Retail Institute. The Government is also undertaking a review of vocational education and recommendations are due to be announced in June.

Qualmark's apartment criteria ready

Qualmark and its industry partners are pleased to announce the new assessment criteria for the Apartment sector. Growth in the apartment sector can now be accurately represented and meet customer expectations.

Discussions for employing migrants in hospitality continues

Hospitality NZ Chief Executive, Bruce Robertson met with Immigration officials to discuss the challenges of employing skilled migrants required for key hospitality roles.

Invitations to accommodation conference events

Conference season is well on its way with some great conferences tailored for the accommodation sector. Find out what your counterparts in Australia are up to or have a look in our own backyard for some fresh ideas and inspiration!

Accommodation excellence 2012 - Don't forget your entry!

The 2012 Awards for Excellence entries are now open. All entries are due by 5pm on Friday 15 June. There are three specific accommodation Award categories that acknowledges excellence or success in this sector. Get your entry in before its too late!

Have your say at your 2012 Branch AGM!

The 2012 series of Branch Annual General Meetings will commence in June starting with Central Otago on Wednesday 13 June. Let your business concerns be heard and find out what your Branch committee plans are for 2012-13.

Accommodation Forum meets in June 2012

The next Accommodation Forum will hear from all organisations representing accommodation interests in New Zealand. Key group representatives including new TIANZ Chief Executive, Martin Sneddon will be in attendance.

Queen's Birthday - Monday 4 June 2012

The Queen's Birthday is a public holiday on Monday 4 June 2012, but is not a prohibited day under the Sale of Liquor Act. Find out what the staff entitlements are for those who work on a public holiday or should you choose to trade on this day.

Hotel Occupancy rates for March 2012

Here are the latest Hotel occupancy rates for March 2011 and 2012 listed by regional tourism organisation areas. The overall occupancy rate in March 2012 was unchanged at 59%.

Easter and Australian holidays impact visitor arrivals figures

Visitor arrivals for the month of April 2012 fell 1.1% compared to April 2011. Take a look at the latest NZ Statistic figures that include key visitor information by residence, travel purposes and length of stay.

24/7 Advice

As always, one of Hospitality New Zealand's team of experts will be available 24 hours, 7 days a week to assist you with any hospitality enquiries, particularly with respect to employment and liquor licensing issues. Please do not hesitate to call on 0800 500 503.