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Former House of Travel chief executive Mark O’Donnell has been appointed incoming Chair of the All Blacks Experience as the Auckland attraction expands its premium visitor and corporate events offering.
Mark, known as MOD, will take up the role in October when current Chair Stewart Mitchell concludes his term.
He brings extensive tourism, retail and governance experience, including his former role as House of Travel chief executive and most recently as Chair of Ballantynes.
The All Blacks Experience, located in Auckland’s SkyCity precinct, is a joint venture between Ngāi Tahu Tourism and New Zealand Rugby.
All Blacks Experience general manager Ian Jones says Mark joins the business following a period of significant growth.
“The All Blacks Experience has built strong momentum in recent years, and MOD’s leadership will be valuable as we continue that journey.”
Over the past six years, annual visitor numbers have increased more than 284 per cent, while revenue has grown more than 1,075 per cent.
Alongside its core attraction, the business has expanded into premium experiences including player-led tours, hosted dinners at Michelin-recognised restaurant Metita and events providing access to former All Blacks and Black Ferns.
Mark says the potential to further develop these experiences was a key attraction of the role.
“What excites me is where the business can go next. We’re already seeing strong demand, and with technology changing how people engage with our stories and experiences, there’s enormous potential to continue evolving the All Blacks Experience and connect new audiences with the legacy of our national teams.”
Mark says the appointment combines his tourism and business experience with a longstanding passion for rugby.
“The chance to combine that passion with my experience leading tourism and retail companies was too good an opportunity to pass up.”
