University of Otago
The University of Otago, New Zealand's oldest university, is home to a Department of Tourism ranked equal first in New Zealand and among the world's top fifty for Hospitality and Leisure Management, set within an Otago Business School that sits in the top one percent of business schools globally.
Tourism studied as a genuine discipline
The Department of Tourism offers a full academic pathway, from a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Tourism through to Postgraduate Diploma, Master of Tourism, Master of Commerce and PhD level study, alongside dedicated minors in both Tourism and Hospitality. Teaching draws on internationally recognised researchers whose work spans adventure tourism, indigenous tourism and the socio-economic impact of travel, giving students a grounding that goes well beyond day to day hospitality operations.
A holistic view of a global industry
Otago's approach treats tourism as more than an economic driver, examining how it shapes communities, environments and cultures alongside the commercial realities of running a destination or a hospitality business. Field trips to destinations such as Queenstown and Central Otago put students in direct contact with policymakers, destination marketers and business owners, connecting theory to practice in one of the world's most tourism dependent economies.
Studying tourism at Otago brings together several distinct strengths:
- Ranked first equal in New Zealand and top fifty worldwide for Hospitality and Leisure Management
- A full academic pathway from undergraduate minor to PhD in Tourism
- An Otago Business School ranked in the world's top one percent, accredited by EQUIS and AACSB
- Direct engagement with New Zealand's tourism industry through field trips and industry partners
- A genuinely global and multicultural academic community
A launchpad into global tourism leadership
Graduates move into roles spanning tourism operations, destination management, policy and hospitality leadership around the world, carrying with them a rare combination of academic depth and first hand exposure to a country whose economy is genuinely shaped by tourism. For candidates seeking a rigorous, research grounded introduction to the industry, Otago offers a distinctive and well respected path.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is headhunting?
Headhunting is the direct, proactive approach of specific professionals for a specific role, rather than waiting for applications. It is common for senior, scarce or confidential positions. CourtesyMasters has practised headhunting and direct sourcing for hospitality since 1999, always discreetly and with respect for everyone involved.
What is a boutique executive search firm?
A boutique executive search firm is a small, specialised practice that takes on a limited number of assignments with senior attention, in contrast to large, volume-driven firms. CourtesyMasters has worked this way since 1999: a dedicated team, deep hospitality roots and personal involvement from first briefing to final placement. Read more about us.
What is the difference between executive search and recruitment?
Recruitment typically fills open vacancies through advertising and applications. Executive search works the other way around: a consultant proactively identifies and approaches accomplished professionals, including those not actively looking, and guides both sides through a confidential, structured process. CourtesyMasters combines both disciplines, always with a hospitality focus.
What is executive search?
Executive search is a specialised form of recruitment for senior and hard-to-fill positions. Instead of waiting for applications, a search partner proactively identifies, approaches and assesses proven professionals, often confidentially. CourtesyMasters has applied this craft exclusively to hospitality since 1999, through a structured six-step methodology. Discover more about executive search services.
How can I report recruitment fraud or impersonation involving CourtesyMasters?
If you receive a suspicious message or offer that claims to come from CourtesyMasters, please contact us directly before responding. We will confirm whether the communication is genuine and take action to protect you.
Where is CourtesyMasters headquartered?
CourtesyMasters is headquartered in The Hague, The Netherlands, and works internationally from hubs in Madrid, Florence, Rome, London, Monaco and Cannes. See our locations for the full overview.
When was CourtesyMasters founded?
CourtesyMasters was founded in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, in 1999. From Rotterdam to the world: over more than twenty-five years we have grown into an international hospitality search partner built on trust and discretion, working today from our headquarters in The Hague. Read more in our story.