Jordan makes move to Auckland to pursue hospitality

At the age of 20, Jordan Harrison moved from Waiuku to Auckland. On a jobseeker benefit at the time, Jordan’s move to Auckland was the first step in taking control of his career prospects – leading him to enrol at NZMA.

Jordan says NZMA allowed him to meet people from all walks of life — something he valued immensely as someone who grew up in a rural town.

NZMA also gave Jordan the opportunity to figure out his strengths, and most importantly, evolve from a teenager to an adult.

With a Level 3 Certificate in Hospitality (Cafe & function services) and a Level 4 Certificate in Hospitality (Restaurant Service), Jordan is putting his hospitality skills to good use as a cocktail bartender.

After graduating from NZMA, Jordan worked in the bustling drag queen scene of Caluzzi Cabaret before taking his skills to popular Asian Fusion restaurants Monsoon Poon and White and Wong.

Now, Jordan is working at popular Thai Fusion restaurant Mekong Baby in Ponsonby – Auckland’s always-on mixing pot of delicious eats.

After perfecting his craft in hospitality for over 3 years, Jordan decided to take the next step in his career. Currently, he is studying at International Travel College to upskill and achieve his goal of becoming a cruise line bartender.

With a role on a cruise ship on the horizon, Jordan says he’s glad he moved to Auckland to secure a bright future.