Tourism specialist teams up with DOC

A top tourism industry manager is joining the Department of Conservation to get more businesses investing in the great outdoors.

David Wilks, currently General Manager Tourism Development at Tourism New Zealand, is to take up the position of DOC’s Director, Commercial Business Unit from October.

The role leads a newly-established team set up to improve DOC’s partnerships with businesses operating on public conservation land.

DOC already works with 4500 businesses nationwide - from small tourism operators to large power companies. The new unit will ensure a co-ordinated and consistent approach across the country, and promote investment in protecting and nurturing the environment.

“Coming from tourism, I know that New Zealand’s unique wildlife and landscapes are our prime assets and we must manage them with great care,” said David Wilks. “Conservation land is the stage for many commercial operators and I look forward to working with them to build their businesses while also contributing to conservation values."

Grant Baker, DOC’s General Manager, Corporate Services, said David will make a great addition to a team already supported by environmental business leader Rob Fenwick.

“Working closely with businesses is vital for DOC to ensure the investment needed for the huge array of conservation projects we are undertaking. With David’s tourism background and Rob’s business expertise, we now have experience in key areas to get more companies working for the benefit of natural New Zealand.”

ENDS

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