Milford Opportunities Board's inaugural Chair, Dr Keith Turner, is to retire at the end of this month after five years chairing the project.

The Milford Opportunities Project is an ambitious masterplan to reorganise the way people experience and benefit from Milford Sound Piopiotahi and the Milford corridor.

Turner stayed on in the role after the projects Masterplan launch in July 2021, to provide continuity and direction, but now believes the time is right to handover to someone who can pick up and run with it. 

Project leader Dr Keith Turner presenting the Milford Opportunities Project masterplan in Te Anau on 28 July 2021. Photo: Southland App

"It's been a very difficult decision for me as I am absolutely passionate about the Milford Opportunities Project," he said. 

“With feasibility testing work now firmly underway, a strong Unit to undertake this work and Board to guide it, the project is in excellent shape to support a new chair in the role.” 

Turner’s contributions and leadership have been pivotal for the project to date said Milford Opportunities Unit Director Chris Goddard.  

“On behalf of the wider Milford Opportunities team, I would like to thank Dr Turner for his dedication and passion for the work and skilfully steering us to this exciting next phase.” 

“The next year is going to be busy for the project as we test the feasibility of the Milford Opportunities Masterplan recommendations. This work will include significant public and stakeholder engagement," Goddard said. 

Dr Turner will retire as chair on 31 March.