Jane Meares, Chief Commissioner of the Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC), has advised the Associate Minister of Transport, Hon Matt Doocey of her retirement, effective from 30 September 2024.
Ms. Meares is stepping down after almost ten years of dedicated service, having been a Commissioner since February 2015 and at the helm from November 2016.
During her tenure, Ms. Meares has guided the Commission through more than 140 inquiries, some of great public interest, others less famous, all contributing to safer transport across New Zealand. Her leadership has been marked by her focus on improving transport safety and her dedication to the public good. Her balanced and measured approach to complex investigations has earned the respect of her colleagues and stakeholders alike. Ms. Meares' contributions will continue to shape the Commission’s work.
Ms. Meares chose now to retire because TAIC is set to commence a new phase in helping the transport sector be safer, taking advantage of new technology and knowledge systems set up under Ms. Meares’ leadership.
Details of who will succeed her as the new Chief Commissioner will be announced in due course.