Karen Thompson-Smith

Karen Thompson-Smith is the Head of Tourism at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, where leadership focuses on enhancing Auckland's appeal as a tourist destination and guiding the Destination AKL to 2035 strategy. With extensive experience in the tourism sector, Karen has held various significant roles, including General Manager at Matakana Coast Tourism, where revitalization efforts transformed the organization amidst the Covid epidemic. Previous positions include Deputy Chair at the New Zealand Cruise Association, Destination Development Manager at Auckland Tourism, Events & Economic Development, and Events & Sponsorship Manager at Tourism New Zealand. Karen's educational background includes a degree from Auckland University of Technology.