New Zealand tourism awards to recognise young tourism leaders

A young professional and a leader who has made their mark on New Zealand's multi-billion dollar tourism industry are being sought for two prestigious individual tourism industry awards.

The 2013 New Zealand Tourism Industry Awards, managed by the Tourism Industry Association New Zealand (TIANZ), aim to celebrate the achievements of two leading individuals in the tourism industry.

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Young Tourism Leader Award will be presented to a young person (35 years or under as at 31st March 2013) who, while contributing strongly in their workplace, is also engaging and improving the industry as a whole with their actions.

The prize package for this award offers the winner a range of opportunities to draw on the experience and knowledge of key tourism influencers and leaders.

The package includes a chance to spend time with TIANZ Chief Executive Martin Snedden, and get an inside look at Tourism New Zealand and Ngai Tahu Tourism. Other opportunities will be tailored to match the interests of the award winner.

PATA New Zealand Trust Chairwoman Glenys Coughlan says the new prize package reflects the aim of the Young Tourism Leader Award, stating "members of the PATA New Zealand Trust have enjoyed fantastic careers in tourism and we want to help pass on the knowledge we have gained to support the next generation of tourism leaders."

The Crowe Horwath International Sir Jack Newman Award is for an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to New Zealand's tourism industry.

Stephen Hamilton, Director of Horwath HTL, a member of Crowe Horwath International, says that many outstanding individuals have been presented with this award over the years.

Hamilton adds "tourism pioneer Sir Jack Newman led the way in making it easier for travellers to visit far-flung corners of New Zealand. We look forward to recognising another individual who has dedicated their career to growing our tourism industry."

The awards will be presented at the TIANZ Dinner which will follow the 2013 TIA Summit, taking place in Wellington on 1st October.

Organised by TIANZ and supported by Westpac, the 2013 TIANZ Summit will be firmly focused on the future, with the launch of Tourism 2025, an aspirational plan that aims to unite and inspire the industry to adapt and succeed. It has a firm focus on growth - yield, profitability and return on investment - and improved sector productivity, all underpinning a quality visitor experience.

Esablished in 1961, the PATA New Zealand Trust is, along with Hong Kong, the oldest chapter of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).

PATA's chapter system aims to involve tourism industry professionals who could not participate in PATA's activities or attend annual conference and workshops, and to expand PATA's presence in previously untapped markets.

Information on the 2013 New Zealand Tourism Industry Awards can be found at www.tourismawards.co.nz