Rebecca Ingram, Chief Executive, Tourism Industry Aotearoa 

Progressing the plan 

The industry has launched a grand plan for the next 30 years. TIA Chief Executive Rebecca Ingram discusses what happens next, and why building the capability of our tourism operators is so important. 

Justin Watson, Chief Executive, Christchurch Airport  

Christchurch Airport’s Sustainability Journey 

An update on Christchurch Airport's sustainability journey of recent years, what the airport has learned through and from its decarbonisation efforts, and its future focus. 

Nadine Toe Toe, Owner/Director, Kohutapu Lodge & Tribal Tours  

Change the World through Tourism 

In the heart of a remote New Zealand town, a small family-run business has been harnessing the power of tourism to revitalise their community over the past 10 years. With a mission to give back, they have now launched a unique initiative: an indigenous and regenerative youth cross-cultural exchange programme.  

This small family business demonstrates how tourism can be a force for good. Their innovative approach to community engagement and cultural exchange has garnered recognition and support from travellers and organisations worldwide. 

Danielle Shanahan, Chief Executive Officer, Zealandia Te Māra a Tanē 

Bringing birdlife to the skies through tourism - Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne 

Right here in Wellington we have a living, breathing example of how tourism can transform how people live with nature.  

Globally, we are facing devastating losses of nature. But here in Wellington, tourism is giving us hope. Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne has brought birdlife back to the city’s skies, and Wellington is now one of the only cities in the world where bird biodiversity is increasing—not decreasing.  

In this talk you will see the breathtaking impact that the ecosanctuary has had on the city and her people. The sanctuary was founded and is now sustained through regenerative tourism and community spirit. With over 500 volunteers, it stands as a testament to two decades of unwavering community dedication to a 500-year vision of environmental restoration. Through our story we aim to inspire every visitor to reverse the loss of nature in their own community.   

Daniel Thorne, General Manager, Discover Waitomo  

Building back differently – A win-win for sustainability and the visitor 

At Discover Waitomo, the transformative effects of managing peak periods are enriching both local communities and visitor experiences.

Panel Discussion: Wellness Tourism, the rise of transformative visitor experiences in Aotearoa 

• Gabrielle Young, Managing Director, Terra & Tide  
• James White, Managing Director & Co Owner, Maruia Hot Springs  
• Debbie Robertson, General Manager, Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa 
• Janet Purdey, General Manager, Ngāhaerenga New Zealand Cycle Trails 

Rebecca Ingram – Chief Executive, TIA 

To close TRENZ 2024 Media Programme