Entertainment and recreation manager

Entertainment and recreation managers plan entertainment and recreational activities for facilities like cinemas, cruise ships and amusement parks.

Also known as

Entertainment manager, entertainment centre manager, sports centre manager, amusement park manager, cruise ship manager, recreation manager, club manager

Work environment

  • Usually work regular business hours but may work weekends or evenings
  • Usually work at entertainment facilities and amusement parks or on cruise ships and may travel
  • Need to be organised, safety conscious and communicate well

Salary information

MOST COMMON
UPPER
LOWER
$50K-$148K 50000

Typical tasks

  • Plan activities and events
  • Plan and organise staff timetables and shifts
  • Make sure safety rules are followed
  • Create and update business plans
  • Work with staff to run events well
  • Make sure customers understand the services
  • Check and clean equipment and spaces
  • Consult with other managers and staff
  • Choose people for special activities
  • Keep records of staff and activities

Outlook

Entertainment and recreation industries are evolving as people look for more engaging experiences, events and leisure activities. In New Zealand, tourism recovery, community events and growing interest in wellbeing and active lifestyles are supporting the sector. Internationally, digital ticketing, online promotion, data insights and immersive experiences are shaping how organisations attract and engage audiences.

What employers and industry want in graduates

  • Leadership and team management
  • Strong customer and community focus
  • Event planning and organisation skills
  • Communication and relationship-building skills
  • Problem-solving and adaptability
  • Business and financial awareness

Content is reviewed by our experts, but information can change over time. Some content is created with AI support.

This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.