Media Release
Tuesday 13 May 2008
For Immediate Release

Positively Wellington Tourism Bids Farewell to Tim Cossar

Positively Wellington Tourism bids a sad farewell to CEO Tim Cossar, who announced today he will take up the position as Chief Executive of the Tourism Industry Association.

Tim has been with Positively Wellington Tourism for the past 6 years, and has played an instrumental role in getting Wellington on the map as a domestic and international visitor destination. He will take up his new appointment within the next two to three months.

“It’s with much sadness that we farewell Tim, as his impact on Wellington’s tourism industry development has been immeasurable,” says Glenys Coughlan, Chair of Positively Wellington Tourism. “Tim has given his heart and soul to promoting Wellington, and his dynamic leadership style has inspired confidence from his staff, board, private sector partners and the local tourism industry. I can’t think of a better person to now lead the team at TIA, and we wish him all the very best in his new role.”

“Tim is leaving Positively Wellington Tourism in great heart. The Board and executive have been finalising a new 5 year strategy for Wellington tourism, we are about to launch a new domestic marketing campaign that Tim has been instrumental in the development of, and we are working on some significant new online marketing initiatives that will help to cement us as leaders in New Zealand tourism.”

During Tim’s time at Positively Wellington Tourism, the organisation has taken a leadership role in domestic tourism marketing. Its ‘Have a Love Affair with Wellington’ campaign was launched in 2005, winning the Tourism Marketing award and Major Category Winner - Tourism and Transportation Services at the 2006 New Zealand Tourism Awards. The campaign enjoys strong support from partners including Air New Zealand, Te Papa and Wellington hotels.

Tim has played a major role in attracting and promoting the iconic events that continue to draw visitors to Wellington. He worked with the Wellington City Council to develop the events strategy and funding that has enabled the capital to attract major events such as the Montana World of WearableArt™ Awards Show, NZI Sevens, the Air New Zealand Golden Oldies World Rugby Festival as well as a number of large stadium concerts and sports events.

The development of Wellington’s tourism products has also been a key focus for Tim. He has been a strong advocate for projects such as Karori Sanctuary’s Visitor and Education Centre, the refurbishment of Carter Observatory, and the development of the proposed Marine Education Centre.

“I can truly say that working for Positively Wellington Tourism has been one of the best experiences of my career to date,” says Tim. “I’ve been privileged to promote an amazing, vibrant city, with the support of a team of passionate staff, a strong Board of Trustees and an amazingly collaborative local industry. My thanks also go to the Wellington City Council and all our private sector partners, who continue to make it possible for us to do what we do.”

“It’s sad to leave this great organisation, but this is not farewell. I am looking forward to continuing to work in the tourism industry, and keep forging the great working relationships I’ve developed with the sector.”

ENDS

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