Great South Chief Executive Graham Budd has died from a suspected heart attack. 

Budd joined Great South in 2020 after extensive experience in the tourism and hospitality sectors. He was actively involved in a number of key projects and initiatives across the Southland/Otago regions.

Southland Mayoral Forum chair and Gore Mayor Tracy Hicks said everyone’s thoughts are with Mr Budd’s family and all the staff of Great South.

“We are all shocked at the loss of Graham and it will take some time to come to terms with his death,” Hicks said.

“Graham has contributed a huge amount over the relatively short time he was at Great South and he will be sadly missed.”

Great South joint stakeholders committee chair and Southland District Mayor Gary Tong said the news “is just awful and we will support Graham’s family and his work team as much as possible.”

“Graham was so passionate about doing the best by Southland and he and his team have worked so hard over the past two challenging years to support and help our businesses and people across the province.

“His death leaves a large hole for us all, both professionally and personally.”

Budd was also chairperson of Space Operations NZ and a director of NZ Functional Foods. He had previously been CEO of Destination Queenstown and chairperson of Regional Tourism NZ.