Audi Quattro Winter Games NZ Update

It’s going to be another big year for the Winter Games NZ as they look forward to hosting the 6th edition of the Games from 24 August - 8 September 2018.

After more than a decade in his role of CEO they also say farewell Arthur Klap and thank him for his dedication to the Games. Martin Toomey has been appointed as the new Chief Executive and they very much look forward to welcoming him to the Winter Games NZ team in March.

Sir Eion Edgar, Chair of Winter Games NZ, said, “Marty will be an ideal replacement for Arthur; having spent six years in the role of CEO of Snow Sports NZ he knows and understands high performance sport, snow-based competition and the requirements to deliver a successful event. With the Winter Games set to become an annual event on the international winter sports calendar and Arthur’s decision to step aside from the full time CEO role, Marty’s experience will enable us to continue to build on the successes achieved to date.”

Martin Toomey’s appointment follows an extensive recruitment process that attracted considerable international interest. Sir Eion commented that the Board was delighted with the quality and depth of the applicants and said that this demonstrated the high regard in which the Games are held internationally.    

Arthur Klap said “In November 2006 I was contacted by Peter Cox at SPARC and asked if I could help with some feasibility work in Central Otago. The concept was a really interesting one, initiated by Sir Eion Edgar and Barry Maister and was based around an ice and snow sports event. I accepted and so started an amazing 11-year journey that has involved many, many people and organisations.

“I have loved every minute, well maybe not the sleepless nights worrying how we would get enough money together to pay for our ambitious plans, but certainly the delivering of such an important event for New Zealand.

“The Winter Games NZ has grown from an idea on paper to an event that has a significant place internationally in snow sports and one of which we can all be very proud.

“Now it is time for me to step aside and hand over the reins to a new chief executive. This is not an easy decision to make because of the many friends that I have made and love working with. They include staff, the Board, volunteers, sports officials, venue managers and staff, athletes, coaches, local and central government officials and politicians, sponsors, patrons - the list goes on and on. I will miss those close associations but know that friendships are forever and will treasure that.

“I wish Marty Toomey and the Winter Games team well and look forward to a more relaxed association, for me, with the Games.

“Ka kite ano.

“Arthur”