14 October 2022
Media: NZME (Rotorua Daily Post and BOP Times)
Topic: Return of overseas students
Enquiry
I am writing a story that is set to run on Saturday.
Pre- Covid the Rotorua English Language Academy used to get up to 600 international students a year but it was forced to close and lay off it's staff due to the pandemic (it was established in 1993).
But on Monday they are re-opening with 9 international students and more booked to come.
It's owner says ''We love what we do, and we love seeing our students thrive and have life-changing experiences in New Zealand. We know our students contribute a significant amount to Rotorua's economy and cultural life. We have great confidence in Rotorua, and we want to join the push to restore the city's attractiveness, vibrancy, and reputation.'' I was hoping for some comments from the mayor. My deadline is 12pm tomorrow. Thank you
How important are organisations like this to Rotorua and why?
What do international students who study here bring to the community and economy?
Is it heartening to see businesses come back from the brink in Rotorua, are you aware of any others and should the city feel proud about that and why?
Response
Mayor Tapsell provided the following comment:
“It’s great if we are starting to see the return of international students who are choosing Rotorua as their destination of choice. We have a great lifestyle and community and welcome them here.
“I’m glad to see institutes such as the Rotorua English Language Academy able to return to their core business, we hope to see much more of this as we begin to recover from the pandemic.
“I know many other businesses will also be excited to welcome back international students as they bring a wealth of experience, skills and diversity to our city. International students have been an asset to our tourism and hospitality industries in the past, the return of students to our education institutes will also support those industries whose workforce has been impacted by the pandemic.”