He tangata takahi manuhiri, he marae puehu. (A person who mistreats their guest has a dusty Marae). Someone who disregards their visitors will soon find they have no visitors at all. This accentuates the importance of Manaakitanga, or hospitality with Maori society and culture.

The highlight of the Year 13 Geography programme remains the five-day field trip to Queenstown. We were delighted that the Term Three trip not only lived up to everyone’s expectations but also left us with cherished memories. Once again, the Manaakitanga displayed by the locals and tourism providers was exceptional. This place-based learning experience allowed our students to witness and experience firsthand the intricacies of tourism sustainability in Queenstown and surrounds. They learned how the tourism industry is adapting as tourist numbers begin to rise, evaluating the sustainability of tourism development through the lens of social, economic, and environmental criteria.

A key skill developed during Year 13 Geography is conducting thorough research in consultation with peers. Students take charge of their research projects, working in small groups to establish objectives, plan data collection methods, design surveys, and create data collection templates. Armed with these tools, they collect both qualitative and quantitative data during the field trip. Afterward, they refine their skills in data presentation, analysis, drawing conclusions, and evaluating the research process. These are highly transferable and valuable skills that will serve them well in the future.

This year’s itinerary offered a balanced mix of collaboration with tourism industry providers and independent group research time. Students had the opportunity to engage in activities, gather data in Queenstown and its surroundings, and hone skills such as conducting surveys, traffic counts, environmental audits, and compiling street transects. They also had insightful interviews with guest speakers, including the Economic Development Manager at the Queenstown Lakes District Council.

Our visit to Queenstown Resort College provided valuable insight into the current challenges facing Queenstown, especially the issue of affordable local housing for tourism and hospitality workers.

A familiarisation tour at the Millbrook Resort shed light on the variety of accommodation available and how the business 'weathered' the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Millbrook Resort's commitment to sustainable tourism practices, such as their Greener Stay initiative, was particularly inspiring. Through this initiative, they aim to help lower CO2 emissions and engage guests in contributing to the Wakatipu Reforestation Trust, planting trees to enhance the local environment.

Another highlight was our visit to the Skyline Gondola, offering breathtaking views and thrilling luge rides in the snow!! Project Skyline's upgrades, including the new 10-seater gondola cars, promise an even brighter future for Queenstown's premier tourism attraction.

The TSS Earnslaw excursion and Walter Peak farm tour left a lasting impression, with students enjoying sheepdog trials, interacting with various farm animals, and indulging in the legendary 'high country style' afternoon tea.

Of course, no trip to Queenstown would be complete without adrenaline-inducing adventures. Students had the thrill of ziplining at the Kawarau Gorge and some even braved the bungy jump! (Kudos to Mr Gibson...... who vowed and declared he would never do a jump and yet he did!!!!) Shane, the marketing manager at A J Hackett Bungy, shared insights into the business's sustainable practices, emphasising the importance of employee well-being.

Our students also delved into the wine industry's growing contribution to the visitor market during a visit to Gibbston Valley winery, the region's oldest. They explored the winery's expansion plans, including accommodation, lifestyle sections, and a nine-hole golf course.

A captivating digital presentation at KJet's Time Tripper attraction provided a comprehensive overview of Queenstown's physical geography and cultural history.

Our students savoured dining experiences in Central Queenstown and, on another memorable evening, tested their courage at the Fear Factory Attraction. Even the most stoic among us could be heard screaming!

Back at Lakeland Park camp, students forged lasting memories while cooking meals together. The table tennis tournament added a dash of competitive fun.

Special thanks go to the 2023 Year 13 Geography cohort for making this trip unforgettable. We're also grateful to the dedicated staff who accompanied them: Ms Lee, Mr Gibson, Miss Joyce, Mr Green, Mrs Whelpton, and Mr Robertson. We extend our appreciation to Mr Deavoll and Ms Olds for their invaluable support.

 D. M. Lee