On October 1st, 2023, the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI) will undergo a transformative shift, moving from its current home at the New Zealand Tourism Research Institute (NZTRI) at the Auckland University of Technology (AUT) to the Division of Research & Statistics at the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO). This strategic move is poised to reshape the landscape of tourism-related data collection, analysis, and dissemination across the Pacific region. It is also a great opportunity to capacity-build our people of the region to ensure the initiative is sustainable.
The Pacific Tourism Data Initiative is funded by the NZ government and not merely an initiative – it’s a testament to innovation and expertise spearheaded by the distinguished Auckland University of Technology (AUT). Over the years, AUT has set the pace in gathering, scrutinizing, and sharing pivotal tourism-related data throughout the Pacific region. As we transition to SPTO, the initiative’s reach will strengthen and broaden under Pacific leadership.
With this in mind, SPTO is thrilled to introduce the exceptional PTDI team based at the Secretariat in Suva.
Rovarovaivalu Vesikula
His career journey includes roles as a Business Adviser at the Market Development Facility, a Research & Insights Officer at Tourism Fiji and a Research Analyst at Investment Fiji.
Nemani Tebana
Armed with an undergraduate degree in Economics & Mathematics and a Postgraduate Diploma in Tourism & Hospitality Management, Nemani is poised to contribute significantly to the initiative’s success.
Tarusila Ratuvakalevulveu
Her tenure as a Research Officer in the Research & Monitoring Unit equipped her with invaluable insights. Tarusila’s academic accomplishments include a Master of Commerce from the esteemed University of the South Pacific.
