Airways NZ Appoints New Chair and Deputy Chair to Steer Future Aviation Growth

In a strategic move to ensure robust leadership for New Zealand's air navigation services, State-Owned Enterprises Minister Simeon Brown has announced two key appointments to the Airways Corporation of New Zealand. These leadership changes come at a pivotal time as the aviation sector continues to recover from pandemic-related disruptions while preparing for future technological advancements.

Leadership Transition Effective October 2025

Effective 31 October 2025, Darin Cusack, the current Deputy Chair of Airways NZ, will take over as Chair, succeeding Denise Church, who is retiring from the position. Concurrently, Danny Tuato'o, who currently serves as a Director on the board, has been appointed Deputy Chair.

Both appointments come with extended terms—Cusack will serve through 31 October 2028, while Tuato'o's term extends until 30 June 2027. These reappointments reflect the Government's confidence in the leadership capabilities of both individuals.

"These appointments will provide the leadership needed to help Airways navigate the opportunities and challenges facing the aviation sector, ensuring it continues to deliver safe and efficient air navigation services," Minister Brown said in his announcement.

The New Chair: Darin Cusack

Darin Cusack brings to the role a wealth of institutional knowledge and a global perspective on aviation systems. His experience as Deputy Chair has seen him involved in critical decision-making processes, and his elevation to Chair ensures continuity of leadership. With his deep understanding of both domestic and international aviation dynamics, Cusack is expected to guide Airways NZ through a period of rapid technological change, evolving regulatory demands, and increasing global travel activity.

Cusack has been a strong proponent of innovation within air navigation services and is expected to lead the board with a strategic vision focused on modernisation, safety, and sustainability.

The Incoming Deputy Chair: Danny Tuato'o

Danny Tuato'o brings a powerful blend of safety system expertise, financial management acumen, and risk governance to the Deputy Chair position. His contributions to the board as a Director have already helped shape Airways' strategic planning and safety frameworks.

Tuato'o's appointment signals a continued focus on strengthening the enterprise's oversight mechanisms and ensuring it remains resilient in the face of both operational and technological risks. His grounding in corporate finance and risk management will be especially valuable as Airways looks to expand its digital infrastructure and potentially diversify its services in response to evolving market demands.

Navigating the Future of Aviation

The Airways Corporation of New Zealand, a state-owned enterprise, plays a critical role in managing and operating the country's air traffic control and navigation systems. Its services are vital to the safety and efficiency of both domestic and international flights that operate in and out of New Zealand airspace.

As the aviation industry globally embraces new technologies such as satellite-based navigation, drone traffic management, and AI-enhanced safety systems, strong and forward-looking governance at the board level becomes essential. The appointments of Cusack and Tuato'o ensure that Airways is equipped with seasoned professionals who understand the complexities of these emerging challenges.

Minister Brown emphasized the importance of these roles in safeguarding New Zealand's reputation as a country with one of the safest and most efficient airspaces in the world.

Acknowledgment of Outgoing Chair Denise Church

The Government also extended its thanks to outgoing Chair Denise Church for her leadership and service. Church oversaw Airways NZ during a turbulent period marked by the global COVID-19 pandemic, during which the aviation sector experienced unprecedented disruption. Her guidance helped the organisation remain operational and responsive, despite the dramatic reduction in air traffic during lockdown periods.

With Cusack and Tuato'o at the helm, Airways NZ is poised to enter a new chapter of innovation and resilience. Their appointments reflect the Government's commitment to ensuring strong governance at its state-owned enterprises and advancing the broader interests of New Zealand's transport and economic sectors.