Rotorua Airport appoints new boss

Nicole Brewer. Photo: Joel Ford May 20, 2015

Rotorua Airport has appointed a new chief executive.

Nicole Brewer will take up the role on July 1.

Ms Brewer comes to the airport with extensive aviation, business and planning experience, including eight years at Air New Zealand and three years with Qualmark.

Airport chairman, Peter Stubbs, said Ms Brewer had the experience, contacts and passion to capitalise on the work achieved by management over recent years and to take the airport forward into its next growth phase.

"Under the leadership of the previous chief executive Alastair Rhodes, and the current acting CEO Wayne Wootton, the airport has seen a significant number of major changes, including the cessation of the trans-Tasman service to Sydney, the ending of the departure levy, improved relations with the local community and key client, Air New Zealand.

"It is now set for further major changes with a boost in domestic route networks and the development of an integrated air transport and infrastructure plan for the wider Bay of Plenty. The Rotorua Lakes Council will also shortly consider the transfer of ownership of the airport assets to the company," Mr Stubbs said.

"Nicole's appointment adds to this work and we are excited about having her on board to help drive this new phase of development and growth."

Ms Brewer said she was looking forward to the new role - and a return to the aviation sector.

"I am deeply passionate about aviation, as well as Rotorua and the Bay of Plenty, and am excited to be part of the community and support Rotorua as it moves forward."

Ms Brewer said the key focus for her new role would be growing passenger numbers, providing a safe and viable airport that the region can be proud of and working closely with the airlines to achieve these goals.

"Aviation is where my heart is, it is in my blood with both my aunt and grandfather having lifelong careers at Air New Zealand.

"I'm pleased to be able to bring this passion to the airport and look forward to working with local agencies such as Destination Rotorua, Grow Rotorua and the wider tourism and business communities."