New appointments to Tourism Auckland Board

12 October 2009

Nine appointments to the Tourism Auckland Board were announced today by the joint funders of a restructured Tourism Auckland: Auckland City Council, Manukau City Council and the Auckland Regional Council.

The new Board will be responsible for guiding the strategic direction of Tourism Auckland’s marketing and management of the Auckland region as a tourist destination over the coming years. A particular focus will be on helping to ensure the Auckland region is well prepared to maximise the tourism benefits that will flow from Rugby World Cup 2011.

Councillor Ken Baguley, Chairman of the Tourism Auckland Appointments Panel, said all the candidates were strong.

“Between them, the appointments to the board have a vast depth and breadth of experience in governance, management and the travel and tourism industry.

“They will bring not only this experience but great knowledge and enthusiasm to their new roles and I look forward to seeing the future work of this board.”

Ray Salter, General Manager, Ministry of Tourism, and a member of the appointments panel, emphasised the importance of Auckland to the New Zealand’s tourism industry.

“Auckland is the gateway for more than two thirds of international visitors to New Zealand and accounts for more than a quarter of the tourism sector’s GDP contribution. Significant investment in tourism infrastructure is expected to occur in the Auckland region over the next few years and it is essential that Auckland is equipped to capitalize on this and propel itself forward as an attractive, sophisticated and diverse destination for all visitors. I am confident that the new Board of Tourism Auckland will help Auckland achieve this vision.”

The new board will take up their posts in November.