Tiwai Boss Moves To Vector Role
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Chris Blenkiron, Chief Executive of New Zealand’s Aluminium Smelter (NZAS), has announced his resignation as he prepares to take on a new leadership role at Vector, New Zealand’s largest electricity distributor. He will step down from NZAS on 30 September, after four years at the helm of the Tiwai Point aluminium smelter.
Blenkiron joined NZAS in early 2022 and led the organisation through a period of major transformation. He brought strong industrial experience and a focus on environmental responsibility and regional growth.
One of the most significant achievements under his leadership was securing a 20-year electricity supply agreement. This deal ensures the smelter’s long-term future through to 2044, providing stability for both the local workforce and the wider Murihiku community. It also reinforces the smelter’s role in New Zealand’s renewable energy system.
Blenkiron also prioritised environmental stewardship. He oversaw the closure of the site’s landfill and advanced long-term planning for land remediation. His efforts included addressing past environmental issues and positioning the site for sustainable use.
During his time at NZAS, the smelter played a key role in supporting the national electricity system. It began offering up to a third of its power supply during times of high demand, helping to reduce the use of coal-fired power generation. This made the smelter the country’s largest “virtual battery”, with the agreement activated during last August’s energy crisis.
Blenkiron also built stronger partnerships with Ngāi Tahu, signing a Memorandum of Understanding based on Treaty of Waitangi principles. He pushed for a more inclusive and innovative workplace, resulting in higher staff engagement and greater diversity.Reflecting on his time at NZAS, Blenkiron said:
“It has been 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.”
He added: “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.”
Matthew Black, currently the Manager of Casting and Logistics at Tiwai, will take over as acting Chief Executive and General Manager after Blenkiron’s departure.