New Appointments to NZTA Board, Aims to Enhance Road Infrastructure

The new board members bring extensive experience in engineering, construction, and infrastructure delivery.

Transport Minister Simeon Brown has unveiled three new appointments and one reappointment to the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) Board, marking a significant step in bolstering the agency's capabilities.

Warwick Isaacs, Rob Gilmore, and Pat Dougherty are set to join the board for a three-year term ending on July 31, 2027. David Smol, who has been a board member since February 2019, has been reappointed for an additional 18 months.

Brown highlighted that the Government's focus is on boosting economic growth and productivity, improving road maintenance, and advancing the next generation of Roads of National Significance. The new board members bring extensive experience in engineering, construction, and infrastructure delivery.

Warwick Isaacs, from Canterbury, offers substantial experience in construction delivery, having previously served as the Director of the Christchurch Development Unit at the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority. Rob Gilmore, based in Kerikeri, brings over 40 years of global experience in road transport, including a notable role at Downer in New Zealand. Pat Dougherty, from Nelson, has a broad background in rail, roading, water, and local government.

Brown emphasized that the new appointments will enhance the NZTA Board's capacity to address local transport needs and improve infrastructure delivery. He acknowledged the contributions of outgoing board member Victoria Carter, who has served since 2019, and expressed anticipation for the incoming members' contributions.

"Their combined expertise and strong ties to local government will be invaluable in ensuring NZTA remains focused on maintaining our roads and delivering essential infrastructure effectively and responsibly," Brown stated.