Napier Port director Chinthaka Abeywickrama has resigned from the board.

Chinthaka is also the CEO and executive director of transport and logistics firm Netlogix Ltd, which has recently announced a commercial agreement with Oji Fibre Solutions NZ Ltd (majority owned by Oji Holding of Japan), the owner of one of Napier Port’s most significant customers, Pan Pac Forest Products Ltd.

Chin was due to retire from the board by rotation at Napier Port’s AGM on December 18, but took the decision to resign earlier due to the possibility that the new commercial relationship could bring about a perceived conflict of interest.

Chin is also a former CEO of Fonterra subsidiary Dairy Transport Logistics, Chief Operating Officer for Wellington International Airport, CEO of Carter Holt Harvey Lodestar and Manager Export Shipping at Hayleys Ltd.

Napier Port Chairman Alasdair MacLeod says he is sorry to see Chin, and his considerable industry experience, leave the board.

“Chin has added his 25 years’ experience in freight, shipping and logistics to the board table. I have appreciated the quiet, thoughtful input from Chin throughout his term and his specialist logistics knowledge has been of great value to the board.”

Napier Port is now recruiting for a new director. Until a replacement director is appointed, Chief Financial Officer Kristen Lie will take a seat at the board table.