Call for Nominations to the TIA Tourism Council
The call for nominations to the TIA Tourism Council is an important step in ensuring member interests are represented in the leadership and development of the tourism industry and TIA.
The TIA Tourism Council comprises of 12 sector representatives, one member appointed from Tourism New Zealand, one member appointed from Air New Zealand, one member Māori representative, one member Small Business Owner representative and two members co-opted by the Council.
This year is the first election under TIA’s new constitution. There are eight sector seats up for election, Adventure and Outdoor; Attractions, Conferences and Events; Hotels and Lodges; Land Transport; Inbound Tourism Operators; Tourism Distribution; Culture and Heritage; and Services to Tourism.
We are seeking nominees who have the relevant governance experience, skills, networks, and strategic thinking to represent their sector with integrity, and support TIA in fulfilling its duties on behalf of members. Read more about the TIA Tourism Council and its responsibilities here:
Nominations must be received no later than 5pm, Thursday 23 July 2026.
If you have any questions about the election process, please email elections@tia.org.nz.
Who can be nominated for a sector specific TIA Tourism Council seat?
The nominee’s organisation must be a Full Member of the specific sector the nominee is seeking to represent.
Can someone self-nominate?
Yes, if they are a representative of a Full Member of the relevant sector.
Does anyone need to second the nomination?
No, it is not required.
Is the name of the nominator published?
No, this is for administration purposes only.
What is the election process?
If there is no nomination for a sector seat, the TIA Tourism Council will subsequently consider whether to appoint a suitable person. If there is a single valid nomination, that person will be declared successful.
If more than one valid nomination is received for a sector seat, there will be an election. TIA will distribute the biographies and voting form via email to the primary contact of all Full Members in that sector. Voting will open Thursday, 6 August 2026 and close at 5pm, Thursday 27 August 2026.
Election results will be announced after the results are verified. This should be no later than Monday 7 September 2026.
Who can vote?
Only the primary contact of a Full Member of the specific sector can vote if there is an election held for their sector seat. Members receive one vote for every $100 (exc. GST) of their annual membership fee. TIA will make this calculation for you.
Only paid-up members in the relevant sector can vote for their sector representative. This includes members who have instalment arrangements for their fees.
What is the term for a TIA Council Member?
Any new appointments to the TIA Tourism Council will be effective for a period of three years and start immediately after the AGM on Thursday 24 September 2026. The next TIA Tourism Council meeting following the TIA AGM is scheduled for 3 November 2026.
Is there an induction process for new TIA Tourism Council Members?
Yes, all new TIA Tourism Council Members are given a governance manual and are given the opportunity to spend time with the TIA Chief Executive and staff, and will be supported by the Chair and fellow TIA Tourism Council Members. The current Chair of the TIA Tourism Council is Geoff McDonald.
How many times a year does the TIA Tourism Council meet?
TIA’s Tourism Council meets twice a year, usually 9am to 3pm, held at different locations around the country. If elected, it is important that you attend meetings in person. Occasionally, it is necessary to call additional meetings, which will generally be held by videoconference.
Is it a paid position?
No, the TIA Tourism Council roles are voluntary. Upon request, TIA will reimburse reasonable travel and accommodation expenses incurred by a TIA Tourism Council member in attending meetings.
What’s the difference between the TIA Tourism Council and the TIA Board?
The TIA Tourism Council is a representative body of the TIA’s membership and the wider tourism industry, connecting TIA members with the TIA Board and management. The TIA Tourism Council represents Members’ interests and provides advice and input to the TIA Board on industry strategy, policy and advocacy.
The TIA Board is responsible for providing strategic leadership, overseeing financial sustainability, and ensuring effective governance. The Board acts in the best interests of TIA members and the wider tourism industry.
The sector I’m allocated to seems to have changed, why is that?
TIA’s new constitution was approved by members at the 2025 AGM. The new constitution included a realignment of several sector seats to ensure representation across all sectors.
Why are there so many TIA Tourism Council seats up for election this year?
There are six TIA Tourism Councils seats up for election/appointment each year. This year we have two additional vacant seats that are being included in the elections.
