Mr Matthews, who replaces Barry Thomas after 33 years, said in a six-month review to shareholders that net earnings for the group improved compared with the same period a year earlier.
It was assisted by strong contributions from the Sentosa Luge in Singapore, a strong performance across the group during winter, and a reduction in operating costs helped by lower interest rates.
Mr Matthews described trading for the first six months of the year as "favourable," and at variance to international arrivals, which were down 2% during that period, while domestic tourist activity remained strong.
However, Mr Matthews said summer trading was critical, as it was sustained activity which would impact on overall earnings.
"At this point though, we would cautiously predict an improvement in our year-end results.
"There has been some small recovery in international arrivals and importantly, growth out of Australia continues," he said.
Despite the Skyline Gondola Restaurant and Luge being closed for maintenance in May and June, Mr Matthews said turnover had been restored to the point of being consistent with the previous year and cost control and maintained margins had resulted in an improved bottom line for the first half of the year.
Strong management has seen Skyrides in Rotorua report improved earnings, especially from the gondola and luge.
Dining numbers and revenue were back, but Mr Matthews said management efforts had resulted in an improvement in net earnings.
Better than expected demand for accommodation in Queenstown during winter compensated for a slow first quarter at Blue Peaks Lodge and Mercure Leisure Lodge.
The company's North Sky Luge in Canada has bucked global tourist trends by increasing patronage by more than 4%.
Skyline's commercial property development in Rees St, Queenstown, was due for completion any week.
The majority of the ground floor space was let, but was "minimal" uptake of space on the first floor.
"Other vacancies are minimal throughout the portfolio, and rental growth largely non-existent," Mr Matthews said.
Trading at its two casino investments, Dunedin and Christchurch, were described as at levels similar to last year.
Parking improvements were underway at Dunedin and the Christchurch gaming floor had been refurbished.
