Govt Confirms Key State-owned Enterprises Board Reappointments for 2026

At Dunedin International Airport Ltd, Catherine Taylor has been reappointed as Deputy Chair for a term beginning 1 April 2026.

State-Owned Enterprises Minister Simeon Brown has confirmed a series of board reappointments across four major state-owned enterprises (SOEs), reinforcing governance stability across key sectors including food assurance, aviation, meteorology and postal services.

The reappointments, which take effect between March and July 2026, ensure experienced directors remain in place as the Government continues to prioritise performance, commercial discipline and service delivery across its SOE portfolio.

“These reappointments reflect the Government’s commitment to ensuring our state-owned enterprises are supported by strong, experienced governance,” Mr Brown said.

“The directors bring deep capability and proven leadership, and will continue to provide the stability and oversight needed as these organisations deliver for New Zealanders.”

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AsureQuality: Leadership Continuity in Biosecurity and Food Assurance

At AsureQuality Ltd, which plays a critical role in food safety, biosecurity and export assurance, two senior governance figures have been reappointed:

• Peter Landon-Lane – Reappointed as Chair (term commencing 1 July 2026)

• Dr Belinda Storey – Reappointed as Director (term commencing 1 July 2026)

AsureQuality operates at the frontline of New Zealand’s primary sector, providing testing, inspection and certification services that underpin billions of dollars in agricultural and food exports annually. Continuity at board level is seen as key to maintaining international market confidence and regulatory standards.

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Dunedin International Airport: Supporting Regional Connectivity

At Dunedin International Airport Ltd, Catherine Taylor has been reappointed as Deputy Chair for a term beginning 1 April 2026.

Regional airports play a vital role in tourism, freight and regional economic development. Dunedin Airport, jointly owned by the Crown and Dunedin City Council, serves as a key gateway for the lower South Island.

The reappointment signals stability as the aviation sector continues to adapt to post-pandemic demand shifts and infrastructure investment pressures.

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MetService: Governance for Climate and Weather Resilience

At the Meteorological Service of New Zealand Ltd (MetService), Dr Brendon Puketapu has been reappointed as Deputy Chair, with his new term commencing 1 March 2026.

MetService provides critical forecasting and severe weather warnings, supporting aviation safety, maritime operations, emergency management and climate resilience planning. Strong governance oversight is increasingly significant as extreme weather events and climate-related risks intensify.

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New Zealand Post: Oversight Amid Industry Transformation

At New Zealand Post Ltd, Bruce Wattie has been reappointed as a Director for a term beginning 1 April 2026.

NZ Post continues to navigate structural changes in global postal markets, including declining letter volumes and growth in parcel delivery driven by e-commerce. Board continuity is intended to support strategic transformation while maintaining nationwide service obligations.

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Focus on Stability and Performance

The SOE portfolio includes some of the country’s most commercially significant and strategically important entities. Collectively, these organisations:

• Support export growth and trade

• Enable regional economic activity

• Provide critical national infrastructure and services

• Contribute dividends and commercial returns to the Crown

The Minister said the reappointments demonstrate the Government’s focus on strong governance as a foundation for performance and accountability.

With staggered commencement dates across March, April and July 2026, the changes ensure continuity without disruption to operational leadership.