Latest news with #AirNewZealand
Scoop
4 hours ago
- Business
- Scoop
Ruapehu Mayor Champions Chateau With Air New Zealand CEO
Press Release – Ruapehu District Council Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton had the opportunity to discuss the significance of central North Island tourism and the future of the Chateau Tongariro Hotel with Air New Zealand Chief Executive Greg Foran during this week's Mayoral Forum in Auckland. Mayor Kirton said Mr Foran discussed the critical role domestic tourism plays in Air New Zealand's business and how destinations like Ruapehu are key to attracting both domestic and international visitors into the region. 'We also talked about the future of the Chateau with Greg commenting on its ability to act as a drawcard for visitors. Greg clearly understood the value of the Chateau, not just as a building, but as a symbol of our region's appeal with its restoration having wide-ranging benefits for tourism, employment, and the wider economy,' he said. Mayor Kirton reiterated his call for public support of Council's Parliamentary Petition urging Government to help secure a pathway for restoring the Chateau. 'With the right support, the Chateau can once again be a beacon for the region and a driver of economic prosperity,' he said. 'We're doing everything we can to make that happen and community backing is crucial. If you haven't signed the petition, please do so and encourage your friends and whanau to do so also.'
Newsroom
8 hours ago
- Business
- Newsroom
Fuelling New Zealand's aviation future
Comment: When I board my flight from Wellington to Sydney, I'm not just thinking about the meetings ahead. As CEO of a transport energy company, I'm acutely aware that the fuel powering that aircraft represents one of our greatest decarbonisation challenges. New Zealand is a geographically remote island, which means air travel is vital to our connection with the rest of the world. Tourism also makes up an essential part of our economy. The overwhelming majority of visitors get on a plane to visit and air transport enables the export of some of our most valuable products to customers across the globe every day. While critical, its contribution to carbon emissions is a challenge that needs to be addressed. Aviation accounts for around 2-3 percent of global carbon emissions, but unlike road transport where we're seeing the adoption of electric vehicles, the technology pathway for low-carbon aviation is far more challenging. There is no battery technology currently on the horizon to power long-haul international flights. For the foreseeable future, if we want to keep flying, we need liquid fuels. Beyond changes such as reducing flights or deploying more efficient aircraft, airlines are looking to alternative jet fuel options, such as sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), as the most viable solution currently available for a lower-carbon emission future in air travel. SAF is an industry term used for a form of alternative jet fuel made using feedstocks such as forestry residues, municipal waste, or used cooking oils with the goal of reducing the lifecycle carbon footprint of jet fuel. SAF is most typically used by international airlines when blended with conventional jet fuel to form part of the overall fuel mix and is considered as a 'drop‑in' fuel, meaning it can be used in an existing aircraft fleet. SAF was first used in New Zealand in September 2022, when Z, in partnership with Air New Zealand and Neste, imported 1.2 million litres – enough fuel to power approximately 400 return flights between Wellington and Auckland. This remains the largest SAF shipment New Zealand has made to date. The aviation sector globally is showing growing interest in SAF. Some airlines have set carbon emission reduction targets, passengers are increasingly conscious of their carbon footprints, and international regulations are generally evolving towards tighter environmental standards. Yet today, SAF represents less than 1 percent of total aviation fuel use worldwide, primarily due to limited supply and high costs. One of the biggest challenges for SAF production is getting enough of the right feedstock (raw material from which fuels are produced). There are several different feedstocks that are commonly used, such as tallow and vegetable oils. Other feedstocks such as woody biomass or hydrogen can technically be used, however these can be harder or more costly to manufacture. The additional layer of complexity with any feedstock is that many have alternative uses in the energy transition, so the best use case for each feedstock needs to be taken into consideration as countries and industries navigate the energy transition. For me it isn't a question of if we need SAF in New Zealand, but how we will be able to successfully establish its supply for the domestic and Trans-Tasman markets when international demand for the product is increasing. At Z, we've spent considerable time over the past few years working with industry partners across Aotearoa to understand what it would take. Our conclusion is clear: we need supportive policy settings to give industry the confidence to invest, combined with strategic partnerships and economies of scale that can deliver SAF reliably and in the most cost-effective way to our airline customers. The global policy race is already underway All of New Zealand's top 10 trading partners now either have SAF-supportive policies in place or have shown support for it. Many countries already have minimum SAF-blending requirements, and over time, market access may depend on meeting these requirements. Without action to establish policy settings that create a level playing field, our region risks losing competitiveness, increased exposure to offshore compliance costs, and being shaped by policies set by others. The call for supportive policy settings extends beyond Z. Air New Zealand's public support for a SAF mandate last year reflects broader industry recognition of what's needed. We're continuing to collaborate with fuel supply chain partners, airports and airlines and their representative groups to help inform the Government on policy settings that aim to keep New Zealand competitive in an increasingly regulated global aviation market. Collaborative advantage Z's view is that New Zealand's approach to SAF should play to our strengths – our strong relationships, particularly our Trans-Tasman connections, may allow us to access SAF supply more effectively than attempting to build domestic production capacity from scratch. That is why Z is looking to our parent company Ampol, to see what opportunities we can leverage with our joint scale. Ampol's Memorandum of Understanding with GrainCorp and Industry Funds Management Investors (IFM) to explore the establishment of an integrated renewable fuels* industry presents one possible opportunity. The initial priority under the memorandum saw Ampol and IFM progress a feasibility assessment of a renewable fuels facility at Ampol's refinery in Brisbane and work with GrainCorp to explore the supply of homegrown feedstocks, including additional crushing capacity to supply canola oil to the potential future plant. The feasibility work for the plant is now complete, and the project has moved into the next phase of pre-FEED (front-end engineering and design). The project is still very much in its infancy, with much progress to be made before it's determined viable, but it's a step in the right direction. It's not the only project on the table, there are others exploring similar opportunities, and every initiative will keep more options on the table to hopefully see the industry create a viable market in the future. The opportunity remains New Zealand needs to evaluate any SAF policy announced in Australia and be ready to consider how it might be mirrored or adapted for the New Zealand market. This isn't just about following Australia's lead; it's about ensuring we don't create unnecessary barriers that fragment what could be a unified Trans-Tasman market. When policies are aligned, this will help investment stay in our region. Aotearoa New Zealand has a genuine opportunity to be part of building a thriving SAF market that could benefit our aviation sector, climate goals and economic competitiveness. *Note: 'Renewable fuels' is an industry term used for liquid hydrocarbons made from non-petroleum-based renewable feedstocks such as purpose-grown biomass, or from waste material such as tallow or used cooking oil. It includes sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel.
The Hindu
13 hours ago
- Business
- The Hindu
Air New Zealand names Nikhil Ravishankar as new CEO
Air New Zealand on Wednesday (July 30, 2025) appointed Nikhil Ravishankar as its next chief executive officer, following the planned departure of current CEO Greg Foran in October. Mr. Foran, who joined the airline just as the COVID-19 pandemic loomed, announced his resignation earlier this year as the flag carrier continues to grapple with global supply chain disruptions and persistent engine maintenance issues. Mr. Ravishankar, who has served as Air New Zealand's chief digital officer for nearly four years, will assume the top job on October 20. Prior to joining the airline, he held leadership roles at Vector and consulting firm Accenture, where he was managing director. 'Airlines will continue to face immense challenges, whether that's climate change, customer expectations, technology, cost pressures or geopolitics,' said Chair Dame Therese Walsh. 'Nikhil brings a fresh perspective that is grounded in New Zealand values and a deep knowledge of the airline and critical infrastructure across different sectors,' she said. Air New Zealand's struggles have been compounded by a relatively small domestic market and fierce competition from Australian carriers Qantas Airways and Virgin Australia.
India Today
16 hours ago
- Business
- India Today
Air New Zealand names Indian-origin Nikhil Ravishankar as CEO
Air New Zealand on Wednesday announced the appointment of Indian-origin Nikhil Ravishankar as its next Chief Executive Officer. Ravishankar, who is currently the airline's chief digital officer, will take over from Greg Foran on October announced in March that he would step down as Air New Zealand Chief, according to a report in The New Zealand has been with the airline for nearly five years, during which he has overseen major advancements in digital infrastructure, customer experience, and loyalty Announcing the appointment, Air New Zealand board chair, Dame Therese Walsh, described it as a pivotal moment that reflects both momentum and renewal."We have always been bold and not afraid to adapt and lead. Nikhil brings the mindset and contemporary leadership we need to build on our strong foundations and focus on the future. The Board undertook an extensive international search and were delighted to see Nikhil come through the process so strongly," Walsh said."His ambition for the airline's future and his people-leadership skills, coupled with his pursuit of excellence, digital literacy, global outlook and relationships, and his deep care for the airline and New Zealand shone through," Walsh added."Airlines will continue to face immense challenges, whether that's climate change, customer expectations, technology, cost pressures or geopolitics. Nikhil brings a fresh perspective that is grounded in New Zealand values and a deep knowledge of the airline and critical infrastructure across different sectors. He's not afraid to challenge how things are done and ask questions," said Dame Therese AND HUMBLED TO TAKE ON THE ROLE: NIKHIL RAVISHANKARExpressing happiness, Ravishankar, in a statement issued on the airline's website, said he was "thrilled and humbled" to take on the role."I'm both thrilled and humbled to be given this opportunity to lead Air New Zealand," Ravishankar said."This airline is an institution with a deep legacy but also a fantastic future. It's a privilege to step into the CEO role and take on that responsibility for our people, our customers, and our country," Ravishankar also said."Airlines are complex, and safety underpins every decision we make. I truly believe that New Zealand is one of the most innovative nations in the world and one of the greatest destinations to visit. Our airline is amongst the very best and I get to work with some of the most dedicated people in the country, from our cabin crew, engineers and pilots to our ground teams, corporate and digital teams behind the scenes," he added."At the end of the day, we are a people business – purposeful, ambitious, and deeply rooted in Aotearoa New Zealand, and I'm excited to help shape what this next stage of Air New Zealand looks like," Ravishankar IS NIKHIL RAVISHANKAR?Nikhil holds a Bachelor of Science, Computer Science and a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) from the University of Auckland and is an advisor and mentor for the university's Strategic CIO program, according to his profile on Air New Zealand's also a member of the Auckland University of Technology (AUT) AUTEUR Influencer Network, on the board of New Zealand Asian Leaders and an advisory committee member of The Auckland Blues Foundation, according to the to Air New Zealand, Nikhil was Chief Digital Officer at Vector New Zealand, leading the company's digital and information technology function and its transformation programme since this, he was a Managing Director at Accenture in Hong Kong, Australia and New Zealand and held technology strategy and transformation leadership roles at Telecom New Zealand (Spark).- Ends
Scoop
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Scoop
The Spectacle Selected For Air New Zealand's New Regional Event Sponsorship Programme
The Nelson Regional Development Agency (NRDA) is thrilled by this week's announcement that The Spectacle running festival is one of the first two major events that will be supported by a new Air New Zealand Regional Event Sponsorship programme. NRDA Chief Executive Fiona Wilson says the announcement is wonderful news for the region. 'The Spectacle made a bold debut in December 2024, proving itself to be a game-changing, iconic event with real legacy potential. It has the power to put Nelson on the map as a destination for quality, diverse and accessible running, walking, jogging routes – welcoming everyone from world-class athletes to first-time participants. The event attracted over 1,500 participants and with supporters and spectators included, brought around 10,000 people into Nelson City over two days. That resulted in an estimated $2 million boost to the region. With no cap on participant numbers and strong annual growth projected, this is a perfect partnership with Air New Zealand to help deliver even more people to enjoy The Spectacle in 2025 and beyond.' Nelson Mayor Nick Smith says this three-year Air New Zealand sponsorship deal is huge for The Spectacle and for Nelson. 'The inaugural Spectacle in 2024 brought road, trail, ultra and elite races to Nelson, with several events finishing in front of the Church Steps. I participated in the 5km, and my ambition is to do the 10km this year. I was in awe of the running talent from Nelson, New Zealand and around the world who came to compete. I love what The Spectacle brings to Nelson, reinforcing our brand as the most active city in New Zealand and I cannot wait to see it grow.' The Spectacle has been created by elite Nelson-based athletes who understand what motivates people to take part in an event like this – and how to make it truly inclusive. This is not your average running event. With broad appeal across ages, abilities, and backgrounds, it has genuine international appeal. From world record-holding elite athletes to pre-schoolers, and from relays and 1 mile to 100-mile distances, there is something for everyone. The celebration continues after the finish line, with an evening concert for participants and supporters. The event is also delivered in partnership with Athletics New Zealand. This marks the first time Athletics New Zealand has partnered with an independent event, reflecting a fresh and innovative approach to revitalising athletics in New Zealand. Air New Zealand's three-year Regional Event Sponsorship commitment to The Spectacle will play a key role in supporting local tourism and driving long-term, sustainable economic activity. The event has also received funding for both 2024 and 2025 through the NCC Economic Events Fund and MBIE Regional Events Promotion Fund, facilitated by the NRDA. Beyond funding, the NRDA supports regional events through marketing, promotion, and by building connections both within and beyond Nelson Tasman to maximise the benefits of events for the wider community. Fiona Wilson added 'While the exact level and type of marketing support from Air New Zealand is still being confirmed, this announcement couldn't come at a better time for our visitor, retail, and hospitality sectors. After the recent heavy rain events in Nelson Tasman, it is wonderful to have and share good news! A big thank you to Air New Zealand for their support and congratulations to Julian, Anni, Kurt and the rest of the Spectacle team for their hard work to create this world-class event for New Zealand. About Nelson Regional Development Agency (NRDA) NRDA's purpose is to accelerate economic growth, improving wealth and wellbeing for the people of Nelson Tasman. With a focus on increasing regional productivity, we deliver on our purpose by supporting collaboration, building capability, and attracting resources. NRDA is a Council-Controlled Organisation (CCO), 100% owned by Nelson City Council. NRDA was established on 1 July 2016 following merger of the former Nelson Regional Economic Development Agency and Nelson Tasman Tourism. Partnership funding contribution from Tasman District Council enables NRDA services to be delivered with a combined Nelson Tasman regional focus. NRDA's activity spans strategic economic development, business and key sector support, investment attraction and, as Regional Tourism Organisation, fostering and promoting regional visitation.
