Federation sets the standard

The new chief executive of the Tourism Industry Association (TIA), Martin Snedden, is looking to Federated Farmers as a benchmark-setting industry lobby group, according to the Manawatu Standard.

When appointed to the role on March 30, Mr Snedden said he aimed to grow the influence of TIA to the level of Federated Farmers and Business New Zealand.

Mr Snedden, who played international cricket for New Zealand and most recently was chief executive of the Rugby World Cup, is taking over the TIA role at a challenging time for New Zealand's tourism industry.

As well as battling high fuel prices and ongoing economic issues in several key markets, the Canterbury earthquakes have been an added drag on the tourism industry.

Mr Snedden will take up the role in June.