KiwiRail reveals new chief executive

The Northern Explorer train travelling between Auckland and Wellington.

KiwiRail's board has appointed Sydney based New Zealander Peter Reidy as chief executive to replace Jim Quinn.

KIwiRail chairman John Spencer said Mr Reidy's appointment will be effective from February 14.

Currently Chief Operating Officer, Infrastructure Services with Downer EDI Group in Australia, Mr Reidy has managed service and infrastructure-based businesses in the freight, engineering, energy, building products and asset management sectors in Australia, New Zealand, Asia and the United Kingdom.

Mr Spencer also gave thanks to outgoing Chief Executive Jim Quinn who will remain with the business until the end of February to ensure a smooth handover.