Air NZ safety champion becomes Department's new chief adviser

The Department of Labour’s new Chief Adviser on workplace health and safety, David Tregoweth, brings to the role a rich understanding of the health and safety issues facing New Zealand workplaces. 

Mr Tregoweth began his 24 year career in health and safety as a Department of Labour inspector, before taking up various private sector health and safety management roles, the most recent being Air New Zealand’s General Manager for Safety and Employee Wellbeing.

The appointment is a one year secondment from Air New Zealand.

“David’s secondment from Air New Zealand provides an excellent opportunity for the private and public sector to work in partnership towards a common goal – promoting better workplace health and safety,” said Department of Labour Deputy Secretary Workplace, Andrew Annakin.

“David has first hand experience of the issues facing workplaces, and of the role and challenges for the Department,” Mr Annakin said.

“His considerable knowledge and experience, his wide industry and sector networks, and his personal commitment to employee wellbeing will make him a credible champion for workplace health and safety on the national stage.”

Mr Tregoweth will take up the post of Chief Adviser – Safety and Health on July 1. As the title suggests, he will provide professional leadership and direction for the Department’s health and safety services, and will have a key role in encouraging industries to improve health and safety in their sectors.

“David will be a strong and active champion for the benefits that good health and safety systems can deliver to workplaces through improved business practice. His appointment will enhance the Department’s expertise and the leadership role we play in improving workplace health and safety.”

Bob Hill, the acting Chief Adviser Health and Safety, will remain with the Department as a Principal Adviser. “The Department is pleased that Bob will continue to contribute his skills and experience to helping improve workplace health and safety practices in New Zealand,” Mr Annakin said.