Ports of Auckland ex-CEO Tony Gibson charged over employee's death

Former chief executive of the Ports of Auckland Tony Gibson. Photo / Doug Sherring

By RNZ

The former chief executive of the Ports of Auckland, Tony Gibson, has been charged over the death of a stevedore last August.

Maritime NZ yesterday revealed it had laid several health and safety charges against the port company and an individual over the death of Pala'amo Kalati.

Kalati was killed when a container fell and crushed him while he was working on an overnight shift.

RNZ can today confirm Gibson has been charged over the incident and has employed John Billington, QC, to represent him.

A court date over proceedings has yet to be set.

Gibson resigned in May, saying he had been the subject of "persistent and sometimes personal attacks".

His exit came after months of pressure, including a damning safety report which raised major concerns about the management of the Ports of Auckland.

The Maritime Union and Ports of Auckland workers were among those who called for his resignation.

Gibson is facing two charges under Sections 48 and 49 of the Health and Safety Work Act, which relate to failing to comply with a health and safety duty.

Kalati's death was the third linked to the Ports of Auckland in recent years.