Paul Allison

Paul has an extensive background in the sport sector and the media. He was the Chief Executive of Sport Otago between 1994 and 2007 and was responsible for the planning of Sport Otago’s strategic direction and new initiatives.During this time the organisation grew from a staff of four to over 25 full time employees and is now widely recognised as one of the leading Sports Trusts in New Zealand. Paul is also a Trustee of The Halberg Trust, is on the board of SPARC and since 2000 has served on various executive committees including the NZ Master Games and the FIFA Under 17 World championship Southern Region. He has over 20 years involvement with radio and television broadcasting. He is currently Chief Executive of the Central Lakes Trust based in Cromwell.

A self-confessed sports fanatic, Paul has competed in 27 marathons (winning 13 of these) and represented New Zealand for eight years during the 1980’s and 1990’s. His achievements include winning the Pacific Rim Marathon title in Long Beach, California in 1993, seven times winner of the Dunedin Harbour marathon and he finished 23rd amongst a field of over 27,000 runners at the famous New York Marathon.

Paul has been the resident radio commentator at Carisbrook since 1993 and is known to many as the “Voice of Carisbrook”. Over 14 seasons Paul has called many famous Otago and All Black victories from the commentary box – a position he regards as the best seat in the house. He was also involved as a commentator for TVNZ at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne.

Paul believes that sport has been a cornerstone of the New Zealand lifestyle. Through it we learn of discipline, teamwork, self-control, sharing, motivation, goal setting, respect for others, while building confidence and self esteem and community pride. These attributes that are learned though sport can be applied to all other aspects of life.

Paul is someone who enjoys the thrill of the challenge, becomes enthusiastic about the journey, is committed to arriving at the destination and appreciates the experiences along the way. He considers himself very fortunate to have developed some wonderful friendships through his passion for sport as a competitor, administrator, commentator and leader. He believes is it important that we do not become complacent or blasé. Each and every one of us should be proactive in our own way – setting high standards, being challenged and working hard to make a difference. Paul believes that anything is possible but the greatest chance of success occurs when there is a clear vision, excellent leadership and everyone is committed to working together towards a common goal.

Paul’s services as a highly entertaining guest speaker have been widely used throughout New Zealand. He remains passionate about sport and life in the South.