Air New Zealand chief executive Christopher Luxon has resigned.
Christopher Luxon Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller
Mr Luxon, who has been in the role for seven years, will be stepping down on 25 September but would stay on to advise the new chief executive and board chair.
In a statement, the company said it was beginning an international search for Mr Luxon's replacement.
Chairman Tony Carter said Mr Luxon has made an outstanding contribution to the airline.
He said under Mr Luxon's tenure the firm had experienced a period of enhanced profitability, strong dividends to shareholders and record customer satisfaction scores.
Mr Luxon said he was incredibly proud of what Air New Zealand has achieved under his tenure.
He said he understood he would get a lot of questions about what he was going to do next.
"I'm going to take the summertime to refresh and recharge, and then reflect on what I will do next," he said.
"I would like to think more about how I can best use my skills, abilities and experience to make a further contribution to the success of New Zealand whether that be through corporate life, politics or a not for profit."