Hospitality New Zealand and Tourism Industry Aotearoa have welcomed the appointment of Stuart Nash as Minister of Tourism.
Both organisations are pleased that the important tourism portfolio has stayed with a senior Minister to continue the efforts that will ensure tourism recovers its place among the biggest contributors to the country’s economy.
“Tourism was the first industry to be hit by the pandemic and will be the last to recover. This requires a team effort and we look forward to working with Mr Nash to build a sustainable tourism industry that benefits New Zealanders,” express TIA Chief Executive, Chris Roberts.
Nash’s experience as Minister of Small Business will be valuable in his new role, as the tourism industry includes thousands of small businesses, tourism also complements Nash’s new portfolio of Economic and Regional Development.
“Tourism will be a key driver of regional recovery from the pandemic recession,” added Roberts.
TIA has already submitted a 100 Day Plan for the new Government and will be looking to discuss this with Nash as soon as possible, along with its Tourism Election 2020 Action Plan and submission to the Tourism Futures Taskforce.
TIA is also inviting Mr Nash to speak at Tourism Summit Aotearoa in Wellington this month, which will be his first significant opportunity to address a tourism industry audience.
“It is also pleasing that Peeni Henare has retained his role as Associate Minister of Tourism. Tourism is a big portfolio and we know from experience that there is plenty of work for an Associate Minister to support the Tourism Minister,” said Roberts.
“I look forward to meeting with both Ministers, as well as Ministers in other portfolios that have an impact on tourism including the new Minister of Conservation, Kiri Allan.”
Hospitality New Zealand has also welcomed incoming Minister Nash to its tourism portfolio and looks forward to working closely with him including elevating the value of the hospitality industry within the visitor economy.
“Pre COVID, the hospitality industry generated $11billion and employed 170,000. The Hospitality industry has been one of the first and hardest hit by COVID and with the experience of Minister Nash we need to work together to co-design a stronger and more sustainable industry post-COVID,” commented Hospitality NZ’s Chief Executive, Julie White.
“Hospitality New Zealand is also pleased that Peeni Hanare has retained the role of Associate Minister of Tourism. Tourism is the biggest engine of growth in the economy, the road to recovery post-COVID will require an all hands-on approach, his support to the Minister of Tourism will be important.”
