I am 29 years old and from the end of January I will go to New Zealand (Auckland) to attend a 12 weeks full-time sommelier course (recognized by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority) while on a working holiday.
I already have a good wine knowledge, but no experience in the hospitality sector (I am working as a software programmer in Japan, but my degree is on Japanese Language... yeah I like to vary lol).
In the end I would like to try to reside in New Zealand working as a sommelier (or anyway having a wine related job).
I don't mind getting "dirty", I don't mind low salary (at least at the beginning), I am determined, but my age and lack of experience worry me a bit.
Even if I successfully complete the course I am afraid I won't find a job to remain in NZ.
So how is the wine and hospitality sector faring in New Zealand? Do you think that there are still chances? Any advice is welcome!