Source: Tourism New Zealand
Pictured with Hemi are (left-right) New Zealand Māori Tourism Chief Executive Pania Tyson-Nathan, Tourism New Zealand Board Chair Jamie Tuuta, Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive Stephen England-Hall, Tourism New Zealand Pou Ārahi – Māori Hemi Sundgren, Te Kotahitanga o Te Atiawa Chair Liana Poutu
“I’m thrilled that Hemi is joining the Tourism New Zealand whānau. His cultural expertise and knowledge will help us better partner with Maori as well as bring Te Ao Māori to life in our strategy and everything we do,” says Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive Stephen England-Hall.
Hemi’s role is primarily to support the CE and executive in raising the cultural confidence across the organisation in respect to kaupapa Māori. The position is accountable for incorporating Te Ao Māori into Tourism New Zealand’s strategy, operations and work.
“Tourism New Zealand represents and promotes Aotearoa on the world stage and it’s important this is done correctly and with care. Hemi will help ensure that Māori culture, Te Reo Māori and iwi engagement is handled with care, respect and authenticity.”
Hemi has more than 10 years’ experience working with iwi in the post-settlement development space, including 6 years as Pouwhakahaere – CEO at Te Kotahitaga o Te Atiawa Trust in Taranaki.
“I’m looking forward to establishing meaningful networks with the sector, whilst building on and maintaining effective and enduring partnerships. I think this will set the foundation so Tourism New Zealand’s position and endeavours are well understood and recognized,” says Hemi.
“Impacts from the global pandemic present obvious challenges for Aotearoa at the moment, but I feel incredibly fortunate to be involved in an organisation that is in the midst of some great opportunities to reset a course for Tourism to further enrich Aotearoa.”
