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Programme Director named as Finalist in Tourism New Zealand 2023 Awards

Heidi Gillingham named as Finalist in Emerging Tourism Leader category at Tourism New Zealand 2023 Awards

We are very proud to announce that Go with Tourism Programme Director, Heidi Gillingham, has been named as a finalist in the Emerging Tourism Leader category, in the 2023 Tourism New Zealand Awards.

The Emerging Tourism Leader Award recognises an outstanding tourism professional who:

Has been in the industry workforce for less than 10 years
Has embraced their role/s
Are progressing, upskilling and adding value to their employer/business
Have record of notable achievements, particularly over the past 12-24 months
Clearly understands the value of tourism and are proactively contributing to the industry's success.
Have a strong ethos and values, the right attitude and the leadership qualities necessary to be an outstanding leader.

Heidi was nominated for the award by the Go with Tourism team and supported by numerous industry professionals, including Annie Dundas - Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, Eve Lawrence - Haka Tours, Shane Wairau - AJ Hackett Bungy NZ and Wendy Van Lieshout - Active Adventures. Some of the comments of support included:

True leaders lead not for themselves but for the people, Heidi embodies that better than anyone.

Heidi's exceptional qualities as a leader are evident in every aspect of her work.

What sets Heidi apart is her ability to lead with both innovation and emotional intelligence.

Heidi's leadership style is a perfect blend of inspiration, inclusivity, and personal growth, making her a true role model.

The markings of a great leader is trust in their team and transparent communication, and these sum up Heidi’s leadership style.

Heidi is an exceptional leader who deserves to be acknowledged and celebrated by the tourism industry. What we have achieved as a team, could not have happened without her.

Go with Tourism would like to congratulate all of the other finalists in this category:

Awatere Douglas, Sudima Hotels
Heidi Farren, Altitude Tours

We look forward to hearing who takes home the title at the awards night on November 7 2023 at Tākina Covention & Exhibition Centre in Wellington.