New boss for Tourism Bay of Plenty

Kristin Dunne, new head of Tourism BOP. Photo/Katie Cox Photography

A new chief executive has been announced for Tourism Bay of Plenty - but she is remaining tight-lipped on details of her plans to grow tourism in the region.

Kristin Dunne, who has been the organisation's head of marketing for the past two years, was yesterday announced as the replacement for former chief executive Rhys Arrowsmith.

She began her new role on Monday.

Ms Dunne was looking forward to leading Tourism Bay of Plenty towards achieving its vision of being a billion-dollar industry by 2030.

"I do have a 90-day plan but that hasn't been to our funders yet or the council yet," she said.

Specific plans were due by the end of June, she said.

Ms Dunne said she was passionate about seeing growth in the industry.

"When the tourism industry grows, the whole community profits from that. That's really meaningful to me. I am someone who likes to chase growth in my jobs."

Having already been part of the organisation meant the transition into her new role had been seamless.

"My time at Tourism Bay of Plenty has given me a great platform of knowledge to take forward, and an in-depth understanding of the current situation and what direction to take. We have a great team and good momentum that can continue without delay," she added.

"I have lived in the Bay for seven years now and this is my home with my partner and son. I am passionate about the region and the opportunity for tourism."

Tourism Bay of Plenty chairman Ian Smith said Ms Dunne had been appointed after a rigorous selection process.

The procedure was conducted through recruitment services to provide an independent viewpoint alongside the trustees.

Mr Smith said the calibre of applicants was extremely high, with individuals from across the South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand putting their hats in the ring for the position.

Mr Smith said Ms Dunne's diverse and results-driven experience in the marketing field as well as her passion for the Bay of Plenty meant she was the best person for the position.

"We are delighted that Kristin was the successful candidate," he said.

"As second-in-command, she was part of our succession planning. However, we put her through her paces against stiff competition during a contestable process.

"The board and I are wholly confident we have the ideal leader for the next stage of evolution for Tourism Bay of Plenty. I also acknowledge Rhys Arrowsmith's contribution in his four-year tenure at Tourism Bay of Plenty - his dedication to the role saw the formation of a solid foundation for growth."

Prior to joining Tourism Bay of Plenty in 2014, Ms Dunne was a general manager at Vodafone NZ's business division and chief operating officer for Woosh Wireless.