This Content Is Only For Subscribers
After weathering expansions, floods, economic downturns, a pandemic, and surging visitor numbers, Milford Sound Tourism Ltd chair Roger Wilson has hung up his hat after nearly 40 years of service. He officially retired on June 30, with new board director Rex Williams taking over as chair on July 1.
Wilson’s involvement with MSTL—formerly the Milford Development Authority—dates back to the mid-1980s. Over the years, he has worn many hats: company secretary, accountant, board director and, after succeeding former MP Jeff Grant in 2018, board chair. Through it all, he’s been a steady presence behind the scenes, helping to guide MSTL through decades of growth and transformation.
“It’s been a bit of a roller coaster ride, to be fair,” Roger reflects.
“When I first got involved, fewer than 200,000 people visited Milford each year, and there was little in the way of operators or infrastructure.
“Now that we’re welcoming nearly a million domestic and international visitors annually, it’s a whole different ball game. What’s remained constant in all that time though, is how special Milford is. I’m proud that, despite the growth, visitor satisfaction has consistently remained above 94 per cent. That’s a real testament to the community of people who work here and the natural beauty of the environment we’re all committed to protecting.”
MSTL CEO Haylee Preston says Wilson’s departure marks the end of an era.
“Roger is an absolute treasure trove of Milford history, stories, and lessons—his contribution has been extraordinary. He’s helped guide MSTL through some of the region’s most pivotal moments and we’re deeply grateful for his service and steady leadership. We wish him the very best for a well-earned retirement.”
Incoming chair Rex Williams, appointed by Southland District Council as its second independent community representative, brings extensive governance and leadership experience to the role. A civil engineer by profession, he has held senior roles across both public and private sectors, including two terms as an Environment Canterbury commissioner and as a government-appointed member of the West Coast District Health Board. He also served on the University of Canterbury Council, including three years as Chancellor.
Rex currently chairs the Te Tai o Poutini Planning Committee and was a long-standing director and chair of Invercargill-based H W Richardson Group Ltd (2006–2021).
A distinguished fellow of the Institute of Directors, he also mentors government appointees and has a strong track record in voluntary governance roles across the cultural, environmental and community sectors. These include the Styx Living Laboratory Trust, the Southland Museum Redevelopment Panel, Canterbury Museum, and chairing the national Cycling Advocates’ Network.
Haylee believes Williams is well placed to lead MSTL into its next chapter.
“Rex’s governance experience, strategic thinking, technical expertise, and deep understanding of community will be a great addition to the Board. He’s also very mindful of the challenges and responsibilities involved in managing visitor services and infrastructure in a place as iconic and environmentally sensitive as Piopiotahi. We look forward to his leadership as we continue to support great visitor experiences and protect what makes this place so special,” she says.
For more information about Milford Sound Tourism Ltd, visit www.milfordsoundtourism.nz, or to learn more about the history of Milford’s development, visit: www.milfordsoundtourism.nz/history
