The Tourism Industry Association incoming chief executive will be guest speaker at the annual Whakatane tourism operator's forum.

Chris Roberts grew up in Whakatane, so will offer a unique perspective on the District's tourism sector.

He is currently corporate affairs general manager at Tourism New Zealand as well as serving as the chairman of i-SITE New Zealand.

His career has also included stints at 1XX as a journalist and time as the Press Secretary for the Minister of Tourism.

Chris will talk about Tourism 2025 – Growing Value Together/Whakatipu Uara Ngatahi – which presents a framework for the tourism industry to work together and align for growth.

The strategy has been developed by key tourism stakeholders including the Tourism Industry Association, Air New Zealand and Tourism New Zealand.

Whakatane District Council promotions officer Nicola Burgess says Chris will also discuss Tourism New Zealand marketing programmes that focus on special interest tourism – golf, mountain biking, walking, tramping and fishing – all of which are highly relevant to the Whakatane District.

She says the forum should not be missed by any local tourism and accommodation businesses.

'We are very fortunate to be able to secure time with Chris and he will offer valuable insight into the tourism potential of our region.

'I hope local businesses make every effort to attend and take advantage of this opportunity.”

Rhys Arrowsmith from Tourism Bay of Plenty will also attend and will present the marketing programmes in place to promote the Whakatane District and its visitor attractions.

The forum will be held on Tuesday, June 24, at the Surf and Sand Conference Centre in Ohope.