Our Senior Leadership Team
Management office
Ph. 03 547 3199
customer service
Ph. 021 997 494
Rescue Fire
ph. 027 649 7759
Simon Barr
Acting chief executive
Simon joined the the Nelson Airport team in October 2020 bringing diverse practical airport management knowledge from commercial and aeronautical general management positions with Queenstown Airport. Simon's direct airport experience is supported by small-business ownership and consulting experience. Simon enjoys finding opportunities for tenant businesses to grow with the airport.
ADRIAN FERRIS
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Adrian joined the team in December 2023. He’s an experienced Chartered Accountant with previous roles in public practice and local government. He leads the finance team who take good care of all things accounting as well as provide essential support and advice to the wider management team. Passionate about all things aviation, Adrian loves working at the busiest regional airport in the country.
Jesse Woods
Operations Manager
Jesse joined the Nelson Airport team in December 2023, bringing experience in operations, safety and security management from the aviation and maritime industries.
Jesse is driven by operational excellence, customer satisfaction, continuous improvement of systems and processes and compliance with best practice.
He holds a commercial helicopter pilots’ licence, certificate in aeronautical maintenance engineering and a graduate diploma in aviation management to support success in the dynamic and exciting airport environment.
Beth Catley
Communications MANAGER
Beth has an extensive background in journalism and communications in New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Beth is a Nelson local, growing up in the region and returning here to live and work in 2010 after several years overseas. She manages Nelson Airport’s communications channels, sponsorship and marketing activity.
TANIA MITCHELL
SUPPORT SERVICES MANAGER
Tania manages the supports services functions for the Airport’s corporate office. She is a recent arrival to Nelson, having spent most of her 30-year career working in professional services organisations in Auckland.
MIKE JUKES
CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER
Mike took on the role of Customer Service Manager in June 2023 after working in the customer service team within the terminal since 2018. He brings a proven track record of fostering positive customer experiences. Highly customer-focused, adept at building strong relationships, and skilled in effective communication, Mike is committed to ensuring passenger satisfaction and enhancing the overall airport experience
MARIUS COETZEE
ASSET & FACILITIES MANAGER
Marius joined the team in September 2024 with 15 years of experience in project, quality, and safety management in Civil Construction. He is committed to operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and improving systems while ensuring compliance with best practices. Marius has successfully completed large-scale infrastructure projects and has deep expertise in regional roading maintenance, essential for community connectivity. He holds a Bachelor's in Tourism Management, a Postgraduate Certificate in Advanced Project Management, and a Master’s in Business Leadership. His skills and experience will significantly enhance our services in the dynamic airport environment.