8 May 2006
Search underway for outstanding young tourism professional
New Zealand companies and tourist organisations are being urged to nominate up-and-coming managers and operators in the
tourism industry for the 2006 PATA NZ Young Tourism Professional Award.
The Award is part of the Tourism Industry Association New Zealand (TIA) annual Tourism Industry Awards and recognises
young ‘stars’.
PATA NZ Trust Chairperson Neil Plimmer said: “We need to recognise those talented individuals who are
making an impact in the industry. This award is about motivating and inspiring young professionals to
stay and achieve in a sector that is in great shape”.
Chris Lamers, Positively Wellington Tourism’s, General Manager Marketing and 2004 award recipient
said recognition by his peers has been a great endorsement for him personally, and for his team.
“The Award was a great acknowledgement of the work done by our team and the results we’ve achieved.
Anything that celebrates excellence on both an individual and team level should be encouraged.”
Previous recipients of the Award include Malcolm Johns, CEO of Intercity Group Limited; Paul Bingham,
CEO of Black Cat Cruises; Richard Wilson, Tourism Holdings Group; and Simon Douglas, formerly Ministry of Tourism and
now at Ministry of Transport.
The PATA Young Tourism Professional Award is open to those working in the tourism industry under the
age of 35 at 1 March 2006. Nominations for the award close on 31 May. Winners will be announced in August.
For more information about nominating criteria and procedures, visit the TIA Tourism Industry awards website
www.nztourismawards.co.nz.
ENDS