AusLeisure

SKYCITY staff and stakeholders have warmly welcomed the company’s new Chief Executive, Graeme Stephens, with a special powhiri – a traditional Maori welcoming ceremony - under Auckland’s Sky Tower.

Stephens’ first day in the role (3rd May) was a memorable occasion with representatives from Auckland iwi Ngati Whatua leading the formalities, along with more than 100 SKYCITY staff.

Stephens was presented with a korowai - a hand-woven ceremonial Maori feather cloak - upon his arrival, which was designed exclusively for the incoming Chief Executive.

Stephens joins SKYCITY with an impressive background in developing and opening world-class casinos, hotels and resorts, and with expertise in gaming, hospitality and leisure industries internationally. Most recently, he was Chief Executive of Sun International, a casino, resorts and entertainment company listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

Stephens said the ceremony was a special and unique occasion, and he was humbled by the warm welcome, stating “it’s well known internationally that New Zealanders are extremely welcoming and friendly, and I certainly experienced that first hand today. It’s wonderful to finally be in the country starting in my new role

“SKYCITY is an exciting, diverse, innovative organisation with a number of developments in the pipeline over the coming years, and plenty of potential beyond that. It’s a real privilege to be joining at such a positive time for the business and I’m really looking forward to my future here at SKYCITY.”

Images: SKYCITY Chief Executive Graeme Stephens with Taiaha Hawke of Ngati Whatua (top) and the pair share a hongi (below).

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