Tauranga City Council has welcomed five dynamic new board members to three of its council-controlled organisations (CCOs), following a competitive selection process that drew 46 expressions of interest.
Meet the new appointees:
- Mary-Anne Macleod – Director, Bay Venues Limited.
- Clare Swallow – Director, Bay Venues Limited.
- Dave Guruge – Trustee, Tauranga Art Gallery Trust.
- Meghan Fleming – Trustee, Tourism Bay of Plenty.
- Brian Staunton – Trustee, Tourism Bay of Plenty.
These talented individuals officially step into their roles on 1 July 2025, each serving a three-year term alongside existing board members.
The appointments are unanimously supported by dedicated panels representing each organisation, including elected members and respected community leaders.
Who’s who on the boards
Mary-Anne Macleod – Bay Venues
A seasoned governance leader and Chartered Fellow of the Institute of Directors, Mary-Anne brings over a decade of experience from organisations like the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research, AgResearch, and the New Zealand Transport Agency. With a strong background in strategic project oversight, asset management, and public safety, she’s well-versed in the needs of both local government and the community. Based in Tauranga, she’s ready to help Bay Venues continue to thrive.
Clare Swallow – Bay Venues
Clare, a Bay of Plenty local, is a strategic thinker with a people-first approach. A Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors, she offers a wealth of experience across public and private sectors, with strengths in innovation, marketing, and customer experience. Her focus on balancing community value with commercial outcomes makes her a great fit for Bay Venues.
Dave Guruge – Tauranga Art Gallery Trust
Dave is a passionate advocate for the arts and community wellbeing. A Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors, he serves on boards including Tauranga Girls’ College and the Epilepsy Association of NZ. His doctorate research in creative leadership through storytelling aligns beautifully with the Gallery’s mission. Originally from Sri Lanka, Dave now calls Tauranga home with his wife and two daughters.
Meghan Fleming – Tourism Bay of Plenty
Meghan brings extensive experience in tourism, sport, and marketing to the Tourism Bay of Plenty Board. Currently the General Manager Commercial & Marketing at the Chiefs Rugby Club, she has held senior roles with NZSki and Air New Zealand, leading destination marketing and strategic partnerships. She also brings governance experience from national sports organisations and tourism bodies. Meghan is passionate about enhancing the local visitor economy and making a contribution to TBOP’s mission through her expertise. Originally from the United States, she has been a long-time New Zealand citizen and is proud to call Tauranga home.
Brian Staunton – Tourism Bay of Plenty
Brian’s global career in tourism, aviation, and tech has taken him across the Asia-Pacific region, working with tourism boards, operators, and government agencies. A Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors and Certified Management Consultant, he brings deep expertise in strategic growth and regenerative tourism. Born in Ireland, Brian met his Kiwi wife in London and now lives in Tauranga.
Tauranga City Council’s CCOs deliver services and manage assets on behalf of Council and the community, often with a commercial or strategic focus. These CCOs are also focused on their long-term priorities which includes sustainability, financial efficiency, regional collaboration, community engagement, innovation and digital transformation.
Mayor Mahé Drysdale says: “The calibre of applications we received was nothing short of outstanding. Each one reflected deep professionalism, strong governance skills, and a heartfelt commitment to public service. It’s truly inspiring. I’m looking forward to working alongside our new board members as we continue to serve our communities with integrity and purpose.”
Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Tauranga City Council jointly control Tourism Bay of Plenty (TBOP). Western Bay Mayor James Denyer expressed his confidence in the new additions.
“Meghan and Brian have extensive experience in the tourism sector and bring strong governance skills to the table. Their strategic insights and understanding of the tourism economy will enrich the Board’s collective strengths. Their appointments reflect our commitment to ensuring our tourism strategy aligns with the aspirations of our region and its people,” says Mayor James.
Bay Venues, Tauranga’s largest CCO, manages over 20 key community facilities—from Baywave and Mount Hot Pools to Mercury Baypark and local halls. The organisation plays a vital role in enriching community life through sport, recreation, and events.
Simon Clarke, Bay Venues Chair says: “The quality of applicants made shortlisting incredibly difficult. Mary-Anne brings deep governance and project delivery experience, along with a strong leadership background. Clare offers bold thinking, innovation, and stakeholder engagement expertise—skills that helped shape Tourism Bay of Plenty in her previous role as Deputy Chair. Together, they’ll help us stay commercially focused while delivering top-tier community services to the residents of Tauranga.”
Tauranga Art Gallery Trust (TAGT) owns and operates the Tauranga Art Gallery – toi Tauranga, on behalf of the residents of Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty. Its mission is to engage, educate and inspire residents and visitors alike.
Rosemary Protheroe, TAGT Chair says: “Dave’s passion for the arts, combined with his governance experience and community insight, will be a tremendous asset. We’re thrilled to have him on board as we continue to grow the Gallery’s reach and impact.”
TBOP takes a lead role in enabling sustainable growth of the visitor economy in the coastal Bay of Plenty in ways that benefit the whole community.
Russ Browne, TBOP Chair says “Both Meghan and Brian have a deep understanding of our region’s unique tourism landscape. Their wealth of governance expertise, strategic insight and extensive stakeholder experience will be invaluable as we continue to grow a sustainable visitor economy that delivers real value to our communities and visitors alike.”
These appointments mark a significant step forward in strengthening the governance leadership of Tauranga’s substantive CCOs. With a diverse mix of experience, creativity, and commitment, the new board members are poised to help shape a vibrant and inclusive future for Tauranga and our region.
For more information about Council’s CCOs, please visit: www.tauranga.govt.nz/cco