Tourism makes huge contribution to New Zealand: Snedden

Tourism is a strong, vibrant industry that will meet and overcome the short-term challenges it is currently facing, according to new Tourism Industry Association New Zealand (TIANZ) Chief Executive Martin Snedden.

The former Rugby World Cup 2011 leader took up his new role with TIANZ and lost not time in highlighting the value of New Zealand's tourism industry, stating "in the last 12 years, tourism export earnings have doubled from $5 billion to almost $10 billion. In the last four years, tourism has twice been New Zealand's number one export earner.

"This is an industry where the spend by our domestic travellers and international visitors amounts to a whopping $63 million every day of the year. And it supports the jobs of one in 10 New Zealanders.

"This industry is a critical component of New Zealand's economy. We face plenty of challenges at present, as do most other sectors, but we have proven in the past that we are strong and robust enough to handle difficult conditions."

Snedden says he was attracted to the tourism industry because of its importance to New Zealand, and because of the many creative and talented people contributing to its success.

Another attraction is its similarity to sport, Snedden adding "it's a volatile rollercoaster ride that will always be challenging and interesting!"

As the leading advocate for the private sector, TIANZ has been and will continue to be actively working with its members and decision-makers at every level to help find solutions which will benefit tourism in New Zealand and benefit the country as a whole, he says.

Career history: Martin Snedden CNZM

•  2007 to 2011: Rugby New Zealand 2011 Limited (RNZ 2011) - Chief Executive
• 2001 to 2007: New Zealand Cricket - Chief Executive
• 1990 to 2001: Snedden & Associates - lawyer & partner
• 1980 to 1990: New Zealand cricket representative

15th April 2011 - SNEDDEN OUTLINES ECONOMIC BOOST OF RUGBY WORLD CUP