Sir Brian Roche has been appointed chair of the NZ Transport Agency for a three year term.
He previously led the NZTA board in 2010 and is currently chair of City Rail Link Limited.
Roche told Stuff he will remain on the City Rail Link board and would manage any conflicts of interest but doesn’t see any issues at this stage.
Transport minister Phil Twyford says Roche “brings a wealth of experience and a steady hand to transport sector governance”.
“Our Government has a transformative agenda to rebalance the transport system toward better safety, access and value for money, along with more investment in regional and local roads and rail.
“The Transport Agency has a crucial role to play in creating a modern and sustainable transport network and I’m pleased to appoint someone of Sir Brian’s calibre to lead this work,” Twyford says.
A review of NZTA’s regulatory functions is currently underway and is soon expected to be presented to the Government.
Roche will be responsible for implementing the findings and recommendations of the review, Twyford says
NZTA has been led by interim chair Nick Rogers who took over from previous chair Michael Stiassny who stepped down in April and was one year into his three-year contract.
Roche was knighted in 2016 for his services to the state and business.
He was a senior partner at PWC until 2009 specialising in public sector operation and governance.
He has also had roles with Housing NZ, NZ Post, several iwi, and the department of prime minister and cabinet.
