Tourism Award Winners Announced

The winners of this year’s Tourism Industry Awards include a Rotorua nature park, an entrepreneurial young leader and man who was involved in the transformation of tourism from a ‘bit player' in the New Zealand economy into one of its most valuable industries.

Managed by the Tourism Industry Association New Zealand (TIA), the Award winners were announced at a special event in Wellington on Tuesday. They are:

• DOC Conservation in Action Award: Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park, Rotorua
• Horwath HTL Sir Jack Newman Award: Tony Staniford, Paraparaumu
• PATA Young Tourism Professional Award: Bryan McChlery,Te Anau

"Our winners are an inspiration and a reflection of the depth and quality of New Zealand’s tourism industry," says TIA Chief Executive Tim Cossar.

"In today’s challenging trading environment it is more important than ever that the industry and New Zealand recognise the excellence, innovation and dedication they represent."

DOC Conservation in Action Award winner Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park delivers an exceptional tourism experience that promotes conservation and educates visitors about New Zealand’s natural heritage.