Puketapu-Lyndon acknowledged, Sowry appointed new Chair

Several changes in New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC) governance positions were made at yesterday’s NZOC General Assembly, while following the Assembly, Glen Sowry (OLY #848) was announced as the new Chair of the organisation.

During the General Assembly, NZOC President Liz Dawson acknowledged and thanked outgoing Chair Diana Puketapu-Lyndon for her service to the New Zealand Team and NZOC Board. 

As the first Māori woman to chair the organisation, Puketapu-Lyndon advanced the inclusion of te ao Māori at the NZOC, supporting the Māori advisory committee - Te Urunga Tū - and the appointment of the organisations first Pouwhiringa. 

She made a significant contribution to the NZOC and leaves as a respected Chair who led the New Zealand Olympic whānau with mana and passion.  

Incoming Chair, Glen Sowry, acknowledged Puketapu-Lyndon’s service and said his time on the NZOC Board has prepared him well for his next step.   

"I’m honoured to take on the role of Chair at the NZOC and build on the great work Diana has done,” said Sowry.  

“I look forward to working collaboratively with the Board, athletes and our diverse range of stakeholders of the NZOC to support our athletes to achieve continued success at the Olympic and Commonwealth Games and to continue to promote the Olympic values and instil pride and excellence in all New Zealanders," he said.   

During the Assembly, Liz Dawson was reappointed to the role of President of the NZOC and will lead the international agenda for the next four years.  

Annette Purvis was reappointed for her final four-year term on the NZOC Board, Meg Matthews was ratified as the newly elected Board Member and Dallas Seymour was also supported to continue as a co-opted member of the NZOC Board for a further 12 months, as the Pou Tikanga.