Former RBNZ Governor Christian Hawkesby Takes On NZQA Role
Christian Hawkesby, former Governor of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ), has taken on a new role as acting chief executive of the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).
The appointment follows the resignation of Dr Grant Klinkum due to health reasons. NZQA chair Kevin Jenkins highlighted Hawkesby's experience in leading organizations through difficult times, including his tenure as RBNZ Governor from April to November 2025.
Hawkesby began his new role on Monday and will maintain momentum during important changes across secondary and tertiary education. He had previously replaced Adrian Orr as RBNZ Governor in March last year after Orr's resignation due to a dispute with Finance Minister Nicola Willis over funding. Hawkesby had applied for the permanent role but was unsuccessful.