Tourism New Zealand chief executive Kevin Bowler is stepping down after six years at the helm.
Bowler leaves in October to take up the position of chief of drinks company Frucor Beverages.
"During his tenure, Kevin has reinvigorated the way the country is marketed, narrowing the organisation’s focus to people already ‘actively considering’ New Zealand and delivering significant value to the economy through the use of targeted digital media channels," said Tourism New Zealand chairwoman Kerry Prendergast.
His tenure has been a ‘remarkable success’ Prendergast added, with visitor spending up 25% in the past year.
"He ends his tenure having just announced Hollywood powerhouse James Cameron as the latest in a line of influencers who have thrown their voice behind the 100% Pure New Zealand campaign. With the tourism industry delivering more value to the economy than ever before, Kevin leaves Tourism New Zealand is the best shape possible."
"On behalf of the Board we wish to thank him for his work and commitment to success and wish him all the very best at Frucor."
The Tourism NZ board will instruct an executive recruitment agency to lead the search for Bowler’s successor.
