People

Chris Hunter, CEO 

Chris has more than 20 years’ experience in the tourism industry and has held senior roles in strategy, planning, retail, wholesale and business travel, and marketing. Prior to joining the Tourism Exchange, Chris held senior positions within Flight Centre, Stella Travel, and Air New Zealand.
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At Air New Zealand, Chris started his career in tourism with roles in sales and marketing including Manager Retail Group, Manager Pacific Islands, and Business Development roles in the UK and New Zealand.

In 2002 he was appointed GM Global Direct Sales where, along with successfully planning and directing the Direct Sales businesses, he oversaw the phenomenal growth in direct distribution for the airline.

Chris brings extensive industry experience and expertise to the Tourism Exchange. 

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Matt Chappell, Northland/Taranaki/Ruapehu

Matt’s success in the tourism and hospitality industry began as a consultant for Air New Zealand Travel Centres. Most recently, he was Business Development Manager at the boutique corporate travel management company, Executive Travel. His ability to identify cost saving opportunities for clients and negotiate supplier agreements led to considerable growth in the company’s client base.

Matthew has also worked on the other side of the counter, as National Corporate Sales Manager at Mirvac Hotels and Resorts which operates both the Quay West Suites and Sebel Suites in Auckland.

Email Matt >> 
Mobile: 021 279 7797

Brad Kettle, Auckland/Waikato/Coromandel

Brad has held varied positions within the New Zealand Travel & Tourism industry giving him a broad perspective and a sound knowledge base on tourism throughout New Zealand. Spending 7 years in the Adventure Tourism and Budget Accommodation sector Brad has worked both as a Travel Consultant and in a Business Development capacity, promoting New Zealand and its attractions as a travel destination. 

Brad started his tourism career by holding positions at both the Quality Hotel Logan Park and the iconic Auckland White Heron Hotel - all the while completing a Certificate in Travel & Tourism.

More recently Brad held the position of Account Executive with Air New Zealand Cargo, which allowed him to further develop his knowledge of the New Zealand export industry and refine his business to business sales and account management skills.

Email Brad >>
Mobile: 021 241 0000

Leigh Somerville, Bay of Plenty/Taupo/Rotorua/Eastland/Hawkes Bay

Leading with a customer centric approach underpinned by qualifications in both Sales Management and Travel and Tourism, Leigh has held positions in various industries including 13 years in the travel and tourism industry and two years in the public service sector as Sales and Visitor Services Manager at Auckland Zoo where Leigh was also responsible for the project management of a multi-million dollar catering procurement. More recently, Leigh was the Director of Closing the Gap Limited, where she consulted industry clients on how to strengthen client partnerships and strategically enhance business potential. 

Leigh was also contracted to the full service public relations and event management agency 4PR to manage trade relations and training activities for travel industry clients as well as assisting with the creative and promotional elements of event management. 

Leigh has six years experience in senior management including South Island Manager and National Sales Manager for GO Holidays and over 20 years experience in sales. Her extensive travel and tourism background also includes previous sales and consulting roles at Flight Centre and Qantas Airways.

Email Leigh >> 
Mobile: 021 242 6426

Richard Marshall, Wellington/Wairarapa/Manawatu/Nelson/Marlborough

Richard brings broad business experience to the Tourism Exchange, having held management roles in financial markets and media organisations. His experience in the tourism industry includes work with Jason’s Travel Media, managing key accounts in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

Richard has been responsible for liaising with all facets of the tourism industry including accommodation providers, holiday parks, tour operators, and event managers. With his media experience, Richard has proven expertise in creating print and web solutions and unique promotional opportunities for individual and industry clients.

Email Richard >> 
Mobile: 021 279 1791

Kirsten Ellis, Canterbury/West Coast

The customer has been the focus of Kirsten’s ten years in the tourism and travel industry, backed by a Diploma in Sales Management and an Advanced Diploma in Travel, Tourism and Business.

Kirsten's experience with tourism customers began at the Park Royal, Wellington, and she was later appointed conference manager for Rydges Hotels and Resorts in Christchurch. Prior to joining the Tourism Exchange, Kirsten spent five years as South Island Account Manager for Avis Rent a Car in Christchurch. She has also worked for Avis both in Sydney and Melbourne. 

Email Kirsten >> 
Mobile: 021 284 5845

Kylie Walker, Otago/Queenstown/Lakes District/Southland

Kylie brings outstanding experience in the use of online booking for the tourist industry. In her previous role as International Sales Manager - Groups and Leisure at Millbrook Resort, Kylie assisted in developing the resort’s online booking engine and e-commerce strategy. Kylie has extensive experience with the trade, distribution both online and tradtional, and all facets of the tourism industry.

During her time at Millbrook, Kylie also achieved considerable success as Special Events Coordinator. During this time she organised the largest concert ever held at the resort, attracting 16,000 guests. Prior to this Kylie spent many years with the Nugget Point Resort in Queenstown, in various roles including sales.

Email Kylie >> 
Mobile: 021 279 2792