Robson Appointed to Steer Southern Growth for THL

Media Release from Tourism Holdings Limited
February 12 2007

Robson Appointed to Steer Southern Growth for THL

Tourism Holdings Limited (THL) is strengthening its position in the South Island with the appointment of a dedicated Southern Region General Manager. Highly respected industry professional John Robson has been appointed to the new Te Anau based position, and will oversee THL South Island tourism products Great Sights, Johnston’s Coachlines, Kiwi Experience, Milford Sound Red Boat Cruises and Ski Express.

“We are pleased to appoint John to this role and are confident that the company is well-positioned for growth in this region,” said Grant Webster, Chief Operating Officer, Tourism Leisure Group, THL.

With a tourism career spanning nearly 20 years, Mr Robson has cemented a firm reputation within the industry as an expert in all aspects of marine tourism. He started his career on the Devonport Wharf with Gulf Ferries soon after the company purchased the tourism assets of Fullers, and was Operations Manager for three years.

Mr Robson is no stranger to Fiordland and the Southern Region. In 1995, he and his wife Stephonie Quenaux and their two sons, moved to Milford Sound to take up a newly created position with THL, as the Operations Manager for Milford Sound Red Boat Cruises.

He later managed Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter & Underwater World, a leading attraction of THL’s, before moving back to Milford Sound in 2004 to oversee the arrival of THL’s $6.2m Pride of Milford and the million-dollar refits of the Spirit of Milford and the Lady Bowen. Mr Robson is also a Director for the Milford Development Authority.

“THL is committed to South Island tourism and is keen to work with the local community to grow the industry,” said Mr Robson.

“The company’s operations are expanding rapidly in response to that investment and commitment through our dedicated local management.

“I am thrilled to take on this role and see the coming years as a new era that will steer the THL South Island operations into an exciting future.”

Mr Robson took up his new role in December 2006.

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