Bolger to be replaced by Cullen as NZ Post chair

PHIL REID/The Dominion Post

STEP UP: Former Deputy PM Michael Cullen will replace Jim Bolger as chairman of NZ Post late in the year, according to reports.

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Former prime minister Jim Bolger will be replaced as chairman of NZ Post late in the year by former finance minister Michael Cullen, it has been reported.

Mr Bolger's tenure as KiwiRail chairman also came into question at the weekend when Transport Minister Stephen Joyce said its governance needed refreshing. His current term expires in June.

There has been speculation that Dr Cullen, who is deputy chairman of NZ Post, would be stepped up to chairman, but TV3 reported that would in fact happen when Mr Bolger's term expires in October.

Prime Minister John Key was asked by reporters today about Mr Bolger's future with KiwiRail and whether he would be re-appointed, but Mr Key said he couldn't confirm anything, other than to endorse Mr Bolger's performance.

"I think he has proved himself to be a very effective chairman of a number of SOEs (state-owned enterprises), whether it has been KiwiRail or New Zealand Post."

- NZPA