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Matt Doocey has been appointed as New Zealand’s first Minister for Tourism and Hospitality; a role that combines the hospitality sector into ministerial delegations.
With a deep-rooted connection to the industry, he is set to reshape the landscape of New Zealand’s tourism and hospitality sectors.
Growing up in a family deeply ingrained in the hospitality industry, Matt’s father was a hotel manager, and his grandfather built and owned hotels in Christchurch. This upbringing in hotels, and his own stints in the hospitality sector from a young age, has given him a unique perspective on the industry.
“It’s a privilege to be the new Minister for Hospitality and Tourism. Actually, this is the first hospitality has been included in the ministerial delegations, and I’m really excited to be representing and be the voice for tourism and hospitality around the cabinet table.”
As the new Minister, Matt’s priorities are clear. He aims to engage directly with industry operators and stakeholders to understand their expectations and challenges. His plan includes touring the country to meet with various tourism and hospitality groups.
“Starting early in 2024, I’ll be going around the country and engaging operators and stakeholder groups on the ground to really build up a picture of their expectations for me, what their hopes and dreams are, and how I can work alongside,” he says.
His new roles will also see him set to collaborate closely with the Minister for Immigration, addressing concerns around workforce support and visa processing for the sector. He emphasises the need for a balanced approach to tourism growth, respecting both the economic and social aspects of the industry.
His vision includes supporting destination management plans, vital for maintaining the social license of tourism, especially in high-demand areas. But, his approach is not just about growth but the right kind of growth, focusing on peak and shoulder seasons and encouraging tourists to explore different parts of New Zealand.
Signalling a shift from previous government approaches he says: “I want to get out of the sector’s way. I want to give them the things that they can grow on and thrive”.
