A new Wanaka area recreation manager will join the Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) team later this month.

Allan Wainwright will take up the reins for the newly created role on February 22. 

He will be responsible for the operational management of Wanaka Recreation Centre (WRC), as well as developing council’s range of sport, recreation and wellbeing programmes across the wider Queenstown Lakes district.

QLDC sport and recreation manager Simon Battrick said Allan’s previous experience in managing facilities and working with different community groups would be a real asset.

“Allan is a passionate and energetic individual who has spent more than 16 years in the sports, community and recreation sector around Auckland and Bay of Plenty,” Simon said.

“He’s regularly up before dawn to play squash, and loves running and mountain biking so I know several members of our team are looking forward to putting him through his paces on our local trails.”

Allan’s previous roles include managing Papamoa Sports and Recreation Centre and Lynfield Youth and Leisure Centre; working for Skills Active as a team leader for the Northern region; and a period as national manager for extra-curricular childcare provider, School’s Out.

Most recently, Allan managed Katikati Community Centre from where he also led the COVID-19 welfare response coordinating a range of local community groups and partners.

“This is an amazing opportunity in one of the most beautiful places in the world,” Allan said. 

“My wife Gabriela and I both love the outdoors and are eager to explore the magical surrounds of the district.”

Allan is looking forward to contributing to the rec centre and council’s district-wide sport and recreation provision.

“Wanaka Recreation Centre is such a valuable asset for the local community.”

I’ve already seen how it brings people together and helps them keep fit and active, and I’m looking forward to adding my own experience to the mix,” he said.

PHOTO: Supplied