Meet Mark

Totally Tourism's Owner / Director, leading the group of iconic tourism brands. 

From the outside, Mark Quickfall is known as one of New Zealand’s most successful tourism entrepreneurs. But from within the business, his story is one of genuine leadership, resilience, and unwavering commitment to both people and place.

Mark’s entrepreneurial journey began early. Not in a lecture theatre, but through hands-on experience. At just 23, he owned his first adventure tourism business, Pro Jet, and was already leading international tours. He often says his “university” was the reality of running his own businesses, where lessons were learned fast and often the hard way.

Those early years set the tone for what would become a hallmark of his career: innovation and collaboration. Working alongside industry legends like Don Spary and Sir Tim Wallis, Mark helped pioneer the first helicopter combo adventures. Experiences that would help shape the future of adventure tourism in Queenstown.

His leadership has always been grounded in perseverance. Whether navigating the Global Financial Crisis or steering the Totally Tourism group through the unprecedented challenges of Covid-19, Mark’s focus remained the same - his people. Under his guidance, the company not only survived but came out stronger, retaining key staff and rebuilding momentum in a changed tourism landscape.

Mark’s career has spanned every corner of New Zealand’s tourism industry. From early days driving jetboats for Shotover Jet and launching Pro Jet Adventures, to managing nationwide operations for THL Leisure which included iconic attractions like Kelly Tarlton’s, The Helicopter Line, and Milford Sound Red Boats. His impact is undeniable. In 1999 he established Totally Tourism, bringing together a portfolio of leading adventure brands under one umbrella. The Helicopter Line joined that stable in 2002, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth.

Even after selling to Skyline Enterprises in 2011, Mark’s commitment never wavered. His return to ownership in 2019 reflected both his belief in the sector and his desire to keep championing Queenstown’s tourism story from within.

Throughout, Mark has remained a deeply people-focused leader - mentoring emerging talent, backing local innovation, and fostering a strong culture of connection across teams and brands. His wife Jackie has been an integral part of that story, providing strength and support behind the scenes, while stepson Brad Patterson continues the family legacy as part of the Totally Tourism team.

Beyond his own businesses, Mark has contributed extensively to the wider industry, serving as a director and chairman of Skyline Enterprises, chairing Destination Queenstown, leading Destination Milford Sound, and serving 14 years on the ITOC board. His leadership has helped guide the evolution of Queenstown from a small alpine town into a globally recognised destination.

Today, Mark continues to lead with that same energy and optimism - cycling, exploring, and enjoying life with his family and grandchildren, while remaining an active force in shaping the future of New Zealand tourism.