Smelter boss resigns: 'I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together'
Chris Blenkiron will step down after four years in charge of the aluminium smelter and is taking up the role of Group Chief Executive of Vector, New Zealand’s largest electricity distributor.
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Chris Blenkiron has resigned from his role as chief executive at the New Zealand Aluminium Smelter at Tiwai Point.
He will step down after four years in charge of the aluminium smelter and is taking up the role of Group Chief Executive of Vector, New Zealand’s largest electricity distributor.
Blenkiron joined NZAS in early 2022, bringing with him a strong background in industrial leadership and a deep commitment to sustainability and regional development.
During his tenure, he has overseen a period of significant transformation and achievement for the smelter and the wider Murihiku region.
In a statement, NZAS said in Blenkiron’s time at Tiwai, he has driven strong change across NZAS, including:
Securing a 20-Year Power Agreement: Under Chris’s leadership, NZAS reached a landmark long-term power supply agreement, ensuring the smelter’s operations through to 2044. This deal not only provides certainty for the workforce and community but also reinforces NZAS’s role in New Zealand’s renewable energy system.
Environmental Remediation: Chris championed a proactive approach to environmental stewardship, initiating and advancing the progressive remediation of the Tiwai site. This included the permanent closure of the onsite landfill and long-term planning for sustainable land use, alongside rectification of previous environmental missteps.
Demand Response and Energy Innovation: NZAS became a key player in New Zealand’s energy resilience, offering up to a third of its power supply during peak demand periods. This initiative positions the smelter as the country’s largest “virtual battery,” helping reduce national carbon emissions by displacing coal-fired generation. This landmark agreement was called into full effect during last August’s energy crisis, keeping New Zealand’s lights on.
Chris fostered deeper collaboration with Ngāi Tahu resulting in the signing of a partnership of an MOU, aligning with Treaty of Waitangi principles.
Culture change on site, including driving innovation and diversity, and seeing staff engagement and diversity improve markedly.
Chris Blenkiron said it was an “incredible privilege to lead NZAS and work alongside such a passionate and skilled team”.
“I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together — from building a pathway to allow NZAS to continue to operate for the next two decades to making real progress on environmental and community goals. I leave knowing Tiwai’s future has never been brighter after the help and support of so many.”
“I am looking forward to joining another iconic New Zealand business, Vector, and continuing to help New Zealand meet its long-term energy and growth goals.
“I will miss the incredible people at Tiwai, and in Southland but will carry the memories and friendships we’ve created with us as we head north,” Blenkiron said.
Matthew Black, currently Manager of Casting and Logistics at Tiwai, will step in as acting Chief Executive and General Manager, when Blenkiron leaves his role on September 30.