Changing university terms may not address the tourism worker shortage, but it could help fill other gaps.

Tourism Minister Stuart Nash has suggested moving the university year by six weeks so more students can work in tourism and hospitality over summer.

It follows the release of a new plan, aimed at boosting the sectors' workforce.

Tourism Export Council Chief Executive Lynda Keene told Kate Hawkesby many tourism businesses need workers with particular qualifications, but she isn't opposed to the idea.

She says for industries like horticulture, the idea could be very helpful.

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