Steve Armitage


Masters of Arts (Hons) in Political Science (University of Auckland).

Steve is of Ngāpuhi descent with strong familial connections to Whangārei and the Far North.

He has most recently been Managing Director at Daylight, a strategic consultancy specialising in major events, tourism and business events for the betterment of local communities, visitors and businesses.

He was previously General Manager Destination at Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (now Tataki Auckland Unlimited), the region's cultural and economic growth agency, where he had oversight of tourism marketing, destination management, major events, business events and international education. 

Steve oversaw the development of Auckland’s major events portfolio, including the Cricket World Cup, 36th America’s Cup, FIFA Women’s World Cup and Rugby World Cup. He also led the Auckland Convention Bureau to grow Auckland as a premium destination for business events in domestic and international markets.

Steve has previously worked in the New Zealand Government as a strategist advising the government on a range of portfolios, including tourism. 

He is also past-Chair of Business Events Industry Aotearoa and current co-Chair of the Tourism Data Leadership Group.

Steve's vision is to lead a collaborative organisation which engages efficiently and effectively on behalf of the membership, delivers meaningful action through the insights of members, and continues to support, attract and develop capability for the sector.