Christchurch Airport welcomes two new directors

Christchurch Airport welcomes the appointment of Nick Astwick and Richard Thomson to its Board.

Nick Astwick has extensive executive and governance experience, including nearly a decade leading Southern Cross Health Society and previous senior leadership roles with Kiwibank.  His background spans strategy, financial services, customer-focused transformation, operations and governance.

Richard Thomson has considerable aviation, financial and commercial experience. He recently completed more than five years as Chief Financial Officer at Air New Zealand and has held senior roles across network planning, corporate finance and financial planning.

Both directors have strong ties to Christchurch, having grown up in the city and attended university there.

Board Chair Sarah Ottrey says the two appointments add complementary experience to the Board.

“Nick brings a strong combination of commercial leadership, strategy and customer experience. He has led large and complex organisations through periods of change and growth, and that perspective will be valuable as we continue to invest and evolve.

“Richard offers deep aviation knowledge alongside strong financial and commercial expertise. His experience across airline networks, finance and investment will add another valuable perspective around the Board table.

“We’re delighted to welcome them both and look forward to the contribution they will make.”

Christchurch Airport Chief Executive Justin Watson says the appointments come at an important time for the airport.

“We have a strong programme of growth and investment ahead of us, so having a Board with a broad mix of skills and experience is incredibly valuable.”

Nick Astwick says, “Having grown up in Christchurch, this appointment feels particularly special. It's a chance to contribute to a city I have a strong connection with and to an airport with an exciting future.” 

Richard Thomson says, “Christchurch Airport is a tremendous asset to the city and plays a vital role in connecting the South Island to the world. I'm looking forward to drawing on my aviation experience to support its continued growth and long-term success.” 

Both directors will take up their roles at the 29 October Annual General Meeting. The appointment period is three years.

The appointments will follow the departure of Kate Morrison and Ed Sims from the Board.

Kate joined the Board through the CCHL Associate Director Programme in 2016 and became a director in 2017. Her international investment, finance experience, and her focus on building long-term value for the airport have made a significant contribution over more than 10 years.

Ed joined the Board in 2023 following an extensive career in airline and aviation leadership. His experience has been particularly valuable in aeronautical partnerships, planning, and health and safety governance.