New manager for Auckland Airport properties

Former Capital Properties New Zealand chief executive Chris Gudgeon is to be general manager of Auckland International Airport's (AIA) property portfolio.

Mr Gudgeon's resignation from Capital Properties was announced a fortnight ago. It followed the completion of the compulsory acquisition of outstanding shares in the company as the final step in the takeover of Capital Properties by AMP Property Portfolio Investments Ltd.

Announcing Mr Gudgeon's new appointment today, AIA said he would be responsible for a growing investment portfolio, which had 40 commercial properties worth more than $170 million, and the company's broader airport property interests.

Mr Gudgeon, who is to move from Wellington to Auckland, said his job would involve taking the property development strategy forward for what was really a "mini-city".

In March, AIA revealed the future shape of what it calls New Zealand's gateway airport with the release of a 20-year masterplan review. It included a range of property development activities around the airport designed to deliver a vision of an airport city within a city.

Significant property deals recently announced by AIA included an expansion to the Fliway Logistics warehouse, the development of the first two office/warehouses in the new north airport commercial zone for New Zealand Van Lines and Expeditors International, and the development of an airport childcare centre for Lollipops Educare.

A qualified civil engineer with an MBA from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, Mr Gudgeon is to start the AIA job on June 6.

- NZPA