Lake Wānaka Tourism (LWT) is considering whether or not to fill its head of destination position following the official departure of Gizelle Regan from the role.

Gizelle took over the new ‘head of destination’ role in May last year after LWT general manager Tim Barke resigned. 

She moved to Australia six months ago and has worked remotely since then.

“The [LWT] board [is] grateful to Gizelle for agreeing to do this as it ensured a seamless transfer of information and institutional knowledge as well as maintaining LWT’s reporting structure as we moved forward with the Shared Services model,” LWT board chair Calum MacLeod said.

The Shared Services model is a collaboration allowing LWT and Destination Queenstown to pool resources while retaining their independent brand identities and strategic focus, he said. 

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“At this stage any decision on a replacement for Gizelle’s position is being very carefully considered,” Calum said. 

“Our priority is to identify the best structure to support LWT’s objectives, ensuring we have the right expertise and capacity to deliver for our members and Wānaka.”

Gizelle has been involved in several projects, including the short film awards A Place to Stand and as chair of Three Lakes Cultural Trust. She led the steering group behind the district-wide creative and cultural strategy, Te Muka Toi, Te Muka Tākata. 

Her last day with LWT will be March 28.

“Her strategic approach has laid the groundwork for a future-focused destination management framework, and the legacy she leaves behind will continue to support and grow Wānaka’s position as a world-class destination," Calum said.