Te Puia's New Chief Executive Looking Forward To The Challen

Media Release 29 February, 2012

Te Puia's New Chief Executive Looking Forward To The Challenge

Te Puia, New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, welcomed its new chief executive Tim Cossar on Tuesday who said he is looking forward to the challenge ahead and new beginnings.

A powhiri which was attended by a number of local and national industry figures welcomed the former Tourism Industry Association (TIA) chief executive onto Rotowhio Marae.

Mr Cossar said he is looking forward to working with his new team and acknowledged the kaupapa and legacy that is the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute.

“Rewards come to those who think laterally, innovate, dedicate and commit to being even better than we collectively are today,” he said.

Kaumatua Pihopa Kingi was the first to speak at the welcome, and emphasized the history of Te Puia and the importance of staying true to the kaupapa (purpose) of the Institute as a trainer of carvers and indigenous art forms as championed by the late Sir Apirana Ngata.

Mr Cossar acknowledged Mr Kingi’s words and Te Arawa’s involvement with Te Puia saying “One of the biggest challenges as a European coming into this organisation is making sure these legacies are honoured. It is lovely to be back in Rotorua and I hear your reminder of that responsibility in my new role”.

Mr Cossar said he has a lot to learn, but also said he hopes his background will benefit Te Puia and Rotorua.

Speaking of his wife and children being back in Rotorua, he said they were delighted to once again be among friends and part of the community in Rotorua.

"Thank you everyone for the warm welcome back, it’s like coming home,” he said.

Mr Cossar previously spent 18 years living in Rotorua, which included time as general manager of Tourism Rotorua and the Outdoorsman Headquarters. He left Rotorua in 2000 to work with the Queen Elizabeth II National Trust, followed by managing Positively Wellington Tourism for more than six years and from 2008, he was the chief executive of TIA.

Te Puia chairman Harry Burkhardt said "We are acutely aware of the skill sets and relationships he brings to the organisation and we want to marry that with the legacy and taonga of this place. We are very excited about the future."

Destination Rotorua Marketing general manager Oscar Nathan said it is great to have Tim back in the region.

"I am looking forward to Tim’s involvement and leadership as the Rotorua local industry looks at making some significant steps forward in 2012 and beyond."

ENDS

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