The head of a Rotorua Maori cultural centre says its newly appointed chief executive will help put a stop to a drop in visitor numbers.
A 2010 financial report on Te Puia, formerly known as the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, found visitors had fallen by 13%.
Tim Cossar is due to take over at Te Puia early next year - leaving his role as chief executive at the Tourism Industry Association.
He has previously worked in tourism leadership roles in Wellington and Rotorua.
Te Pui's Board of Directors chairman Harry Burkharbt says he's sure Mr Cossar has what it takes to address the drop in visitor numbers.
Mr Burkharbt says he's confident Mr Cossar has the ability to develop the business through his extensive knowledge and contacts in the industry.