Andrew Leslie named Chief Executive at Wellington’s Nuku Ora

Following the departure of its former Chief Executive Phil Gibbons in early July, the Board of Nuku Ora, the agency promoting an active Wellington, have announced Andrew Leslie as its new Chief Executive.

Leslie, who has been Chief Executive of Recreation Aotearoa over the past 11 years, was appointed following a thorough recruitment process that included support from Mana Whenua and Sport New Zealand.

During his time at Recreation Aotearoa, Leslie led the organisation through a sustained period of significant growth with highlights including:

• The development and implementation of the 2020-2025 bicultural strategic plan, Te Whai Oranga.

• Spearheading the delivery of the Atua Matua initiative to the recreation sector, a programme centred on learning from the environment and recreation through a Te Ao Māori lens.

• Leading the kaupapa around accessible recreation.

• A key driver in the organisation’s response to climate change and CarbonZero certification.

Announcing the appointment, Nuku Ora Board Chair, Dianna Taylor stated “we are delighted that Andrew has accepted the CEO position and look forward to him joining Nuku Ora as we continue our focus on delivering positive outcomes to our region.

“I would also like to acknowledge Andrew’s work at Recreation Aotearoa and their journey over the last 11 years of his stewardship.”

Earlier this year, he was awarded the prestigious C.K Doig Leadership Award at the New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards in recognition of his commitment to innovation.

The award is given to an individual in New Zealand's sport and recreation sector who displays outstanding leadership in relation to their organisation or the sector as a whole.

Leslie (pictured) will commence his new role at Nuku Ora on Thursday 8th December.