Eden Park Trust Board appoints David Kennedy as Chief Executive Officer

23 December 2009 - Auckland, New Zealand – The Eden Park Trust Board, which governs and operates the stadium set to be the centrepiece of Rugby World Cup 2011, today announced the appointment of Mr David Kennedy as Chief Executive Officer.

Eden Park Trust Board’s Chairman John Waller welcomed Mr Kennedy’s appointment to lead the new team to run Eden Park leading up to the showcase event of the Rugby World Cup 2011 and beyond.

“David brings a strong track record in developing and running businesses that own and operate large assets similar to Eden Park, and also has extensive experience of building teams to provide a great entertainment experience which will be essential for the changing face of Eden Park,” Mr Waller said.

David Kennedy’s previous roles have included eight years with gaming and entertainment company Sky City Entertainment Group including roles as GM of Group Operations and GM of Public Policy and Corporate Strategy. Prior to that Mr Kennedy was CEO of the St Lukes/Westfield NZ Shopping Group, after beginning his career in property development and town planning roles with Auckland City Council.

Mr Kennedy, who is also Chairman of Counties Manukau Sport and a Director of Ngai Tahu Property Ltd, will commence his new role on 1 February 2010.

Mr Waller said the Eden Park Trust Board and Redevelopment executive teams will be managed under Mr Kennedy’s leadership.

“He is the most senior of a number of new appointments we have made as we start to prepare for the completion and opening of the new stadium later next year.

“David will lead Eden Park into a very exciting new era as Auckland and New Zealand’s premier and largest sporting and event facility permanently seating 50,000 spectators.”

ENDS