Visit Ruapehu chief resigns

Claire McKnight

Ruapehu Regional Tourism Organisation Chief Executive Claire McKnight has resigned as head of Visit Ruapehu.

Chairperson Peter Till said the board had accepted Ms McKnight's resignation for personal reasons. De did not elaborate on the reason for Ms McKnight's leaving.

"Ms McKnight has been an absolutely outstanding CE and ambassador for VR and we are very sorry to be losing her

Mr Till said that the board would work towards appointing a replacement prior to meeting with stakeholders in September.

"In the interim we have every confidence that the board's very experienced trustees will ensure that it is business as usual at VR."

Ruapehu Mayor Don Cameron thanked Ms McKnight for what she has achieved for Ruapehu and regional tourism development.

"Claire has delivered excellent strategic direction for Ruapehu's tourism industry and led the RTO through constant and ongoing change," he said.

"We are fortunate that she has agreed to continue to support Ruapehu in the implementation of the Visitor Development Plan which marks a major milestone in tourism and visitor services increasing its contribution to sustainable regional GDP growth."