A new advisory group will ensure Marlborough’s tourism sector retains its “voice” now that the Regional Tourism Organisation sits within the Marlborough District Council.

At last week’s Economic, Finance and Community committee meeting, General Manager Tracey Green said the Marlborough Destination Advisory Group (MDAG) terms of reference were to “grow, connect and champion a sustainable Marlborough visitation sector.”

“The advisory group will ensure that our sector’s voice is at the forefront of our decision-making. It will support the prioritisation of the Marlborough Destination Management Plan and help guide us on this journey,” Ms Green said.

The advisory group will be made up of four Council appointees with industry experience and three Marlborough tourism operators, nominated by local industry, and selected by an appointments committee.

Council’s Group Manager Strategic Management Neil Henry said the advisory group was a key outcome of the Destination Marlborough Future Path Project.

Following the Future Path Project, Council approved the transition of Destination Marlborough staff and functions to a Council Unit by 1 July 2025 at the Council meeting on 12 December 2024.

“This has now been implemented. However, one of the key recommendations of the review was that an advisory group be established to enable visitor industry representation input on the key activities of Destination Marlborough.

“Council retains responsibility over the day-to-day operations of Destination Marlborough, staffing and financial decision making with key policy and financial decisions being made by Council through the usual processes,” Mr Henry said.

Expressions of interest will open on 1 October for the industry tourism operators nominated by local industry with the advisory group planned to commence work in early 2026.

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