New members appointed to Central Otago Destination Advisory Board

Five members have been appointed to the Central Otago Destination Advisory Board, to support the implementation of the Central Otago Destination Management Plan and guiding the activities of Tourism Central Otago as the region's Regional Tourism Organisation.

Joining the Destination Advisory Board as Chair is Leslie Preston. Based in Lowburn, Leslie founded the highly successful accommodation management business Bachcare and also serves on the board of several other local and national tourism businesses.

Also joining the board are Brad Rowe, who brings more than 15 years' experience working on ambitious tourism projects and visitor experience planning, and Ashleigh Hogan, who joins the Board as Youth Representative. Marketing Manager and Wine Club Sales Manager at Carrick Winery, Ashleigh has a background spanning vineyard operations, cellar door management, and marketing.

Mark Frood and Shayne Forrest have been reappointed for a further three-year term, providing continuity as the board moves into its next phase.

Tourism Central Otago Head of Destination Anthony Longman says the new appointments bring a strong mix of governance, industry and marketing experience, while the two reappointments mean the board isn't starting from scratch.

"Leslie's business background and local knowledge make her well placed to lead the board, and Brad and Ashleigh add real depth in visitor experience and the next generation of tourism thinking."

Central Otago Mayor Tamah Alley, who represents council on the board, welcomed the appointments.

“I'm delighted to welcome Leslie, Brad and Ashleigh to the Destination Advisory Board, and to see Mark and Shayne continue in their roles. Together they bring a valuable combination of governance experience, industry knowledge and community perspective, and that mix matters for a district where tourism is such a big part of our identity."

All appointments are effective immediately and run for a three-year term.

Central Otago Destination Advisory Board Appointments

New Appointments

• Leslie Preston (Chair)
• Brad Rowe
• Ashleigh Hogan (Youth Representative)

Reappointed Members

• Mark Frood
• Shayne Forrest

Current Sitting Board Members

• Dani McDonald – Kai Tahu rep
• Russ Haigh – Tourism Operator Rep
• Tahlia Sangster – High School Intern

About the Central Otago Destination Advisory Board

The Central Otago Destination Advisory Board provides strategic advice and guidance to support the implementation of the Central Otago Destination Management Plan and the work of Tourism Central Otago as the region's Regional Tourism Organisation. The Board brings together representatives from across local government, tourism, business and the wider community to help ensure destination management decisions align with the long-term aspirations of Central Otago residents, businesses and visitors.