Brad Kirner

Director of Destination Development at Cook Islands Tourism Corporation

Cook Islands

Brad Kirner is the Director of Destination Development at Cook Islands Tourism Corporation, with a background in tourism planning, destination marketing, and operational delivery. He leads strategic work on destination stewardship and the design of pathways for sustainable and responsible tourism, while supporting practical, on-the-ground efforts with his team — from community engagement and industry capability building to visitor education and workforce development. As visitor numbers surpass pre-Covid levels, Brad is focused on guiding the Cook Islands through a critical shift: moving from a volume-driven, commercially focused tourism model to one that puts the needs of its people and islands first.

Brad has contributed to: