Tourism Central Otago’s digital and content advisor Morgan Potter is thrilled to have received a top award from the Tourism Export Council (TEC) of New Zealand.

The​ Young TEC Rising Star Award ​recognises a young person who has been in the tourism industry for less than three years and can show they have contributed to the development of the industry in that time. 

Morgan said she had “absolutely not” expected to win the award, which she shared with Georgia MacMillan from Tomahawk Tourism Marketing in Auckland

“I wasn’t even expecting to be a finalist,” she said.

Morgan received the award at a tourism conference in Rotorua on Wednesday (August 9).

Her career in tourism began as a school leaver from Dunstan High School in Alexandra while undertaking a cadetship at Central Otago District Council, where she was introduced to Tourism Central Otago (TCO). Following a period working in communications roles, she returned to the council to work with TCO as part of the Covid-19 recovery programme of work.

“Morgan embraced the challenges of her role and continued to learn and upskill, which resulted in her securing the permanent digital and content advisor position in March 2023,” TCO head of destination Antz Longman said.

“We are thrilled to have Morgan’s youth, energy and vibrancy as part of our tourism team. 

“For people who are engaged with our digital content, they will have seen how it has benefitted from her strategic approach and skills. It is now recognised by many as a leading example on presenting inspiring content across multiple platforms. She deserves this award as she has worked really hard while also studying at tertiary level to ensure that her skills continue to grow.”  

Morgan’s prize includes participation in the Icehouse Leadership Day and attendance at the Tourism Export Council NZ 2023 Xmas Symposium in December.  

“I never imagined that I’d be standing up on that stage accepting this prestigious award,” she said. “I’m deeply humbled and very excited to see where my career in tourism takes me in the future. I wouldn’t be here without my incredible mentors I’ve had throughout my career, so a huge thank you to you all.”