Appointments for Auckland 2017 World Masters Games

Media release
16 July 2013

Appointments for Auckland 2017 World Masters Games 

Six influential New Zealanders will lead governance of the world’s largest event involving multiple sports, to be held in Auckland in 2017.

Auckland 2017 World Masters Games (WMG 2017) is expected to attract more than 25,000 competitors and 10,000 spectators.

WMG 2017 Chairman Sir John Wells and Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED) Chairman David McConnell confirmed five appointments to the WMG 2017 board today.

ATEED successfully bid for the games, with support from the Government and New Zealand Masters Games, and will manage Auckland’s hosting and event delivery through a separate limited liability company established solely for the event.

Martin Snedden, Barry Maister, Kevin Ross, Dianne McAteer and Diana Puketapu will join Sir John on the board, and will oversee the fiscal management and governance of the Auckland event. 

Sir John Wells says each board member brings specialised skills from a variety of disciplines which will be vital to the Auckland event’s success.

“The World Masters Games will be unlike anything seen before in New Zealand. The event requires a particular knowledge of key visitor and tourism trends, the Masters Games organisation and professional sports management,” says Sir John Wells.

“I am delighted with the calibre of the new appointments. Their collective expertise will make a significant contribution to delivering this mass participation event for Auckland and New Zealand.”

ATEED Chairman David McConnell says WMG 2017 will strengthen Auckland’s already prominent global profile as a major events destination.

“Major sporting events create substantial economic benefits to the host region, and there is fierce competition globally to secure events,” says David McConnell.

An independent economic assessment expects WMG 2017 to inject an extra $36 million into Auckland’s economy and approximately 250,000 visitor nights in Auckland.

“It is essential the event is directed by experienced and talented people at all levels. I am confident the board members have the skills and expertise to deliver a incredible event which will excite Aucklanders and continue to build the region’s reputation for major events,” says David McConnell.

Today’s announcement comes just weeks before the start of World Masters Games 2013 in Torino, Italy, where a New Zealand contingent of about 150 athletes will compete in 18 sports.

Ends

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