New appointments for New Zealand Masters Games

Published on 30 November 2021

Local event manager Heather Cox has been appointed as games manager for the 2023 New Zealand Masters Games event in Whanganui. In partnership with the New Zealand Masters Games Trust, lead agency Sport Whanganui made the appointment recently, with Cox starting full-time in the role from February 2022.

Cox delivered Whanganui Vintage Weekend for the three years 2019 to 2021, leading its redesign and rebranding and developing frameworks that elevated the event delivery and its social and economic impact. Before that, she coordinated many events while working at the Whanganui District Council.

"I'm really enthusiastic about putting Whanganui on the map and am excited about using my event and marketing skills to build on the success of the 2021 games," Cox said.

"I've watched family members compete, supported games promotions while working in local radio and more recently participated. I've always enjoyed myself and look forward to working with a great team to engage more people to experience the fun."

In February, Cox will attend the New Zealand Masters Games in Dunedin to gain some insight and experience preparing for the 2023 games. The games alternate annually between Whanganui and Dunedin.

"We are very fortunate to have Heather as our new games manager. She has proven experience and a terrific track record. She understands what events like the Master Games mean for our economy and sports clubs," Sport Whanganui chief executive Danny Jonas said.

Former games manager Rachel Thompson has been appointed to the Trust to retain her event knowledge. Marianne Cavanagh Whanganui District Council group manager - customer experience is the new mayoral appointment and has been appointed as chair, replacing Leighton Toy.

"The Trust has done a fantastic job strengthening the financial position of the games. I look forward to working with my fellow trustees and continuing the positive growth," said Cavanagh.

The 2021 games in Whanganui offered 54 sports with 4,850 participants, a 14 per cent increase on the 2019 event. This year the economic benefit was $3million, with $148,215 paid out to local sports clubs.

For more information please contact:
Danny Jonas, Chief Executive, Sport Whanganui, 027 224 2270, danny@sportwhanganui.co.nz