The Hawke's Bay Airport board has paid tribute to Chief Executive Nick Story, who passed away last night.
Mr Story had been ill for some time.
In a statement this afternoon, board chairman Tony Porter said the airport board and team was "deeply saddened by the passing of Mr Story".
"Nick led the airport through a period of record growth and profit over his four-year tenure. This includes bringing Jetstar to Hawke's Bay and expanding the vision as well as the services at the airport. "
"He was a great strategic thinker and a strong leader and was very well respected in the business community," Mr Porter said