NZTR Board Members

[Special Agent]

Any thoughts on the two new NZTR Board Members?

[Muzza]

59 minutes ago, Special Agent said:

Any thoughts on the two new NZTR Board Members?

Who are they? 

[Chief Stipe]

NZTR Welcomes Two New Directors to its Board

 

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) has today announced the appointment of Struan Abernethy and Louise Ward to its Board of Directors, bringing a wealth of governance, commercial and community experience to the organisation.

 

The appointments were confirmed by the NZTR Members’ Council, which oversees the selection of NZTR Directors. Members’ Council Chair Jeff McCall said the decision reflects the Council’s commitment to strong governance and leadership within the sport.

 

“The NZTR Members’ Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Struan Abernethy and Louise Ward to the NZTR Board,” said McCall. 

 

“Their combined governance expertise, business insight and personal connection to the sport will be a real asset to the organisation and the industry, helping ensure the long-term sustainability of Thoroughbred racing in New Zealand.”

 

A Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors, Struan Abernethy is a seasoned executive leader and governance professional with extensive experience across digital marketing, sport, and professional services. He currently serves as Board Chair of the Make-A-Wish Foundation NZ and has held senior leadership positions in both New Zealand and Australia, including as Global CEO of the Leading Edge Group. An active racing enthusiast and horse owner, Abernethy combines deep commercial experience with a genuine passion for the sport.

 

Louise Ward brings a wealth of experience in property development, regeneration, and project management. She currently serves on the Tāmaki Regeneration Company Board, leading one of the country’s most significant community redevelopment programmes delivering more than 10,000 homes in partnership with iwi, Council, and Government. A lifelong equestrian and racing syndicate member, Ward offers a strong community perspective shaped by her work in major urban regeneration projects.

 

NZTR Chair Russell Warwick said the appointments reflect NZTR’s focus on building strong leadership and bringing together a wide range of expertise to help guide the sport’s future.

 

“Both Struan and Louise bring complementary skills and perspectives that will serve NZTR and the wider industry well,” Warwick said.

 

“Struan’s background as a global executive and Board Chair, coupled with his experience leading digital and marketing-focused enterprises, adds considerable commercial insight.

 

“Louise has proven leadership across major regeneration and property development projects, holding both Chair and Director roles. Her strong record will be invaluable as we continue to advance the long-term sustainability of New Zealand racing and its infrastructure.”

 

NZTR Chief Executive Officer Matt Ballesty also added, “Both Struan and Louise have strong track records in leadership and a clear appreciation for the people and animals that make our sport what it is.”

 

“Their insight and experience will be valuable as we continue to shape the future direction of New Zealand racing,” Ballesty said.

 

NZTR also acknowledges the contribution of Andrew Fairgray, who will retire from its Board of Directors after nearly five years of service.

 

“It’s been a privilege to serve on the NZTR Board over the past five years during a period of real progress and change for the industry,” commented Andrew Fairgray. 

 

“The sport continues to evolve in exciting ways, and I’m proud to have played a small part in helping shape its future,” he said. 

 

Chair Russell Warwick thanked Fairgray for his service and commitment.

 

“Andrew has been an excellent contributor during his time on the Board, bringing a well-balanced approach during a time of considerable change in New Zealand racing,” Warwick said.

 

“He’s provided valuable strategic insight and leadership to the Board, and we wish him all the best for what comes next.”

 

 

Corporate Communications

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing

nztrcommunications@nztr.co.nz

 

 

[Freda]

5 hours ago, Special Agent said:

Any thoughts on the two new NZTR Board Members?

Yes.  

[curious]

That's a bit cryptic! Elaborate please. I don't really have an opinion. Yet.