Ms Marga Morrisey, a travel expert with Flight Centre in New Zealand has won an 8-day trip to Tonga after entering a draw specifically for travel agents who completed an online South Pacific Specialist Program to help promote the South Pacific.

Originally from New York, Ms Morrissey is ‘super excited’ to head to Tonga, her first visit to one of the islands she has been promoting since she started her role as a travel specialist a year ago.

She said the online program helped her learn a lot about the different islands of the Pacific.

“The program has helped me become more confident in my career and excited that I know whichever island I end up sending my clients they are guaranteed to have a fabulous holiday,” she added.

Ms Morrisey was picked out as winner from 29 other agents, who were certified as South Pacific Specialists after completing the online program.

The program, introduced by the South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) in 2012 is an online training course with accreditation for travel agents to understand the various tourism products and services that are available throughout the South Pacific and also assist them to create the kinds of experiences their customer wants.

SPTO Chief Executive Officer, Chris Cocker said the number of travel agents interested in the South Pacific as a destination has surged leading to an increase in enrolment in their online accreditation course.

“As a direct result of the program, there are now 525 certified South Pacific Specialist agents across the globe mainly from Australia, New Zealand, Europe, United Kingdom, China, India and United States,” he said.

Ms Morrissey is expected to experience the authentic Tonga and its compelling mix of centuries old culture, history and traditions. Her total prize package includes return airfares, accommodation and cultural tours.