Air New Zealand chief executive Christopher Luxon resigns, hints at political move

Air New Zealand chief executive Christopher Luxon says he will decide on a political future - and a possible career with the National Party - during a summer break.

"Politics is something I am interested in," he told Newstalk ZB's Mike Hosking this morning.

Asked by Hosking whether that would be with the National Party, he said: "Yes I think it probably would be".

Luxon announced his resignation last night and says he will decide on his future while sitting on a beach over summer.

Options included politics and an overseas corporate role.

He spoke of the perception of "petty politics" in the New Zealand Parliament and how that might be a turn off for someone, like him, outside the system.

But he was a person who wanted to make a difference in any new role he took - he cited his interest in combating the scourge of human trafficking.

EARLIER

Christopher Luxon has hinted at a move into politics as he resigned from the national carrier this evening.

"I would like to think more about how I can best use my skills, abilities and experience to make a further contribution to the success of New Zealand whether that be through corporate life, politics or a not for profit," Luxon said in a statement.

Luxon has regularly been talked about as a possible National Party candidate.

• Listen live: Departing Air NZ boss Christopher Luxon joins Newstalk ZB's Mike Hosking at 7.05am.

But in May, Luxon dismissed claims he was considering standing for National in the Botany seat.

Air New Zealand's chairman Tony Carter also previously dismissed such claims, telling NewstalkZB that Luxon had told him he remained committed to the company.

National Party leader Simon Bridges said he had not yet spoken to Luxon yet "but we are always looking for talented people."

Luxon will step down from day to day leadership of the airline on September 25, Air NZ said in a statement tonight.

"I have absolutely loved the responsibility and experience of leading this company over the last seven years," Luxon said.

"It has been intellectually challenging, people-centred and an absolute privilege to do this job.

Luxon, 48, said it was time for him to reevaluate his professional career, adding he and wife Amanda would have more freedom with both children finishing high school by that time.

"Our children will both have finished high school and so we will have a new degree of freedom, including career choices," he said.

"Thus, I would like to think more about how I can best use my skills, abilities and experience to make a further contribution to the success of New Zealand whether that be through corporate life, politics or a not for profit."

From September 25, the departed chief executive will move to advise and support the incoming chairman and new chief executive, Carter said.

"It was on this day seven years ago that Christopher's appointment to the role of chief executive officer of Air New Zealand was announced," Carter said.

"The opportunity to lead New Zealand's most iconic company will attract many great candidates both internationally and within New Zealand.

"The board has commenced an international search and expects to be in a position to announce the appointment of a new chief executive officer in the near future."