Change of guard for tourism businesses

Andrew Husheer takes over as general manager of Chris Jolly Outdoors and Taupō Parasail.

Taupō Moana Group Holdings has hired tourism identity Andrew Husheer to the position of general manager for Chris Jolly Outdoors and Taupō Parasail.

Andrew has made the move from Queenstown, swapping “one incredible tourism destination to another, but this one has a bigger lake”.

The South Island has been home to Husheer for the past two decades where he has led legacy tourism operators like Real NZ (formerly Real Journeys) and Larnach Castle along with Ngāi Tahu tourism business, Dart River Safaris.

The move north brings him closer to family and his home region of Hawkes Bay.

For Husheer there are synergies between his previous roles and the new one.

Working with legacy family businesses has been something that Andrew has enjoyed in previous roles with Real Journeys and Larnach Castle.

Working with an iwi-based tourism business is also familiar ground having most recently held the position of business manager for Ngāi Tahu Tourism-owned Dart River Safaris.

Chris Jolly Outdoors and Taupo Parasail are in the majority ownership of Taupō Moana Group Holdings (TMGH), a commercial subsidiary of Ngāti Tūwharetoa.

Andrew says values like manaakitanga and whānau were a major drawcard for considering the role.

In a statement this week TMGH says Husheer will bring two decades-plus of business and operational management experience to both iconic businesses, assisting in the transition to a full ownership model in 2026 by TMGH and also working closely with incumbent general manager Simon Jolly on future proofing the operation in areas of health and safety, compliance and best practice.

“The team is wholly committed to working toward ensuring that our guests have the very best experience when they come to Taupō. Our goal is creating outdoor experiences of a lifetime.”

Chris Jolly Outdoors has four vessels offering a range of on-water experiences from exclusive charters and fly fishing to cruising aboard one of the two large scenic cats.

The company also caters for land lovers with hiking and biking tours.

Taupo Parasail provides a more adrenaline-filled experience on its two Parasail vessels.

Husheer says the opportunities and challenges include a focus on growth and increased performance on what is already a high performing business with a 45-year legacy, providing stories and experiences that are “unique to Taupō but loved by visitors the world over”.

Husheer says his “passion for people” and being able to offer a “quality experience” are key drivers for joining the Chris Jolly Outdoors team.

Andrew started role in  the first week in November and reports to TMGH director Hayden Porter while working closely alongside Simon Jolly who remains a director and shareholder of Chris Jolly Outdoors and Taupo Parasail until July 2026.