New deputy chair for agency

Michael Ahie has been appointed the deputy chair of NZTA’s board for a one-year term starting on October 1.

Other positions held by Ahie, pictured, include being chair of Payments NZ and the nominations committee at the Institute of Directors.

He is a director of Zespri International and Rothbury Insurance Brokers and has previously chaired organisations including Massey University and Plant & Food Research. 

Ahie’s past experiences also include nearly nine years as corporate planning manager at Toyota New Zealand from January 1988 and almost two years as a director of Vehicle Testing Group from February 2012.

He will replace Cassandra Crowley at the NZTA and his appointment was announced by Chris Bishop, Minister of Transport, on September 24

“Michael brings more than 20 years of governance and chair experience across agribusiness, science and innovation, financial services, education and export-led sectors, with a strong focus on risk and assurance, and industry and business transformation,” says Bishop. 

“Michael also brings significant experience in organisational and industry transformation, including through leadership roles with Toyota New Zealand, the New Zealand Dairy Board and PGG Wrightson. 

“These are valuable skill sets as NZTA continues its focus on improving delivery through business transformation initiatives and lifting performance across regulation, infrastructure investment, maintenance and resilience, while ensuring value for money across the National Land Transport Programme. 

“Michael’s leadership skills will assist the board as NZTA navigates the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

Bishop also thanked the outgoing Crowley for her seven years of service on the board and the “valuable leadership” she provided as risk and assurance committee chair, deputy chair from July 2020, and acting chair for short periods.