Associate Professor Claire Liu

Associate Professor
Tourism

Associate Professor Claire Liu came to AUT in 2007 for its energy and room to grow. Almost 20 years on, she has led a programme and a department, helped the Bachelor of Arts in Global Tourism earn UN Tourism accreditation and watched three of her PhD students graduate in a single year.

What’s your role and how long have you been at AUT?

I am an associate professor in the School of Hospitality and Tourism and have been at AUT since 2007. Over the years, I have held leadership roles including programme leader and head of department. Today, my work focuses on teaching, research and postgraduate supervision.

What made you choose AUT – and what made you stay?

I was drawn to AUT's energy, innovation and opportunities for growth. What has kept me here is the strong sense of community and shared purpose. I’m especially proud to have been part of a team that achieved UN Tourism accreditation for our Bachelor of Arts in Global Tourism programme.

What has surprised you most about working here?

AUT's genuine commitment to people. The university celebrates diversity, supports staff wellbeing and fosters a collegial environment where people support one another through both successes and challenges.

When did you last think: this is why I do this job?

Watching three of my PhD students graduate in 2026 was a proud and memorable moment. Seeing students achieve their goals and grow into confident scholars is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work.

What does working here let you do that you couldn’t do anywhere else?

AUT enables me to connect research with real-world tourism challenges, collaborate with industry and international partners, and share my work globally. These opportunities continue to enrich my work as a researcher, educator and supervisor.