After eight years of service to the Wānaka chamber of commerce (Ignite Wānaka), general manager Naomi Lindsay has resigned to pursue her own business interests.

Last year Naomi launched a food tourism business called Forage & Feast and recently she became the new leaseholder of the cafe at the Wānaka Lakes Health Centre.

“I have had an amazing time working for Ignite and the business community in the last eight years and the decision to leave was not easy,” Naomi said.

“I firmly believe though it's important to know when it's your time to move on and give someone else the chance to take Ignite to the next level with the same passion and spirit I did many years ago.”

Naomi created and managed a number of events for Ignite Wānaka including the Ignite Wānaka Business Awards PHOTO: The Film Crew

Ignite Wānaka chairperson Andrew Howard said Naomi’s enthusiasm was a great match with the business community’s culture and helped drive Ignite Wānaka’s success.

“Naomi’s brand and passion has been synonymous with Ignite Wānaka for the last eight years,” Andrew said. 

“She has overseen significant growth in the membership base, and the event and training opportunities that we deliver.”

Andrew said the board is working with Naomi on a transition plan to ensure the continuity of Ignite’s services while they seek someone to fill the role.

Naomi will take up the cafe lease at the Wānaka Lakes Health Centre in April.