The Dunedin City Council (DCC) faced criticism for missing a marketing opportunity during a live radio segment on RNZ. Jesse Mulligan, the host, called the Dunedin isite Visitor Information Centre seeking information on local attractions, but the customer service staff member, overwhelmed with existing calls, declined the interview.
The incident sparked social media outrage, with Southern Heritage Trust chairwoman Jo Galer labeling it a “woeful let down” for the city and a “wasted opportunity.” Others echoed this sentiment, noting the embarrassment caused and the potential impact on tourism.
The DCC acknowledged the missed opportunity but defended its staff, stating that impromptu media interviews are not part of their job description and can be daunting. They highlighted the staff's busy schedule and the unexpected nature of the live call. Paul Henderson, acting general manager, emphasized the team’s commitment to responding positively and professionally to public inquiries.
Jesse Mulligan expressed his understanding of the situation, noting the customer service representative’s workload and suggesting potential future collaborations with Dunedin to compensate for the missed opportunity.