Taine Randell appointed to Hawke's Bay airport board

Hawke's Bay Airport Ltd chair Tony Porter and newly appointed board member Taine Randell.

Former All Black captain and Hawke's Bay businessman Taine Randell has been appointed to the Board of Hawke's Bay Airport Limited.

The Minister for State Owned Enterprises, Hon. Todd McClay today announced today that Mr Randell would be the Crown appointment to the board.

Mr Randell has forged a successful career since returning to Hawke's Bay from the United Kingdom in 2008. He replaces Stuart Webster, who resigned in late 2014, as the Crown appointed director.

Mr Randell has several commercial directorships including Kahungunu Asset Holding Company, Fiordland Lobster Company and freeze-dried snack food business Kiwigarden. He has also worked in financial and commodity markets.

He is also actively involved in the community as a board member of Hawke's Bay Rugby Union and U-Turn Trust, which provides significant social services in Flaxmere.

The Ministry of the Crown is a 50 percent shareholder of the Hawke's Bay Airport Limited with Napier City Council a 26 percent shareholder and Hastings District Council a 24 percent shareholder.

Hawke's Bay Airport chairman Tony Porter welcomed the appointment of Mr Randell, who has commercial experience, which is well balanced with his local knowledge and genuine vision for the economic growth of the Airport and the region.

"We are very happy that the Crown has chosen a local identity to represent its shareholding interests in a regional infrastructure asset. Taine brings Mana to the company as well as business acumen.

"The board is well balanced and equipped for the many exciting developments ahead as we look towards further success and growth at the Airport," said Mr Porter.

Mr Randell, who applied for the vacant board position late last year, is impressed with the financial position of the Airport and also the Company and shareholders' aspirations for continued passenger growth and redevelopment plans for the terminal and other facilities.

"There are challenges ahead but the Airport is regarded as one of the best performing regional airports in New Zealand.

"As the Crown representative I will be focused on their outcomes as well as a Hawke's Bay perspective and ensuring the airport delivers exceptional services for the wider community.

As well as Mr Randell, the Crown has reappointed Jim Scotland for a further term.