Air New Zealand chief executive officer Christopher Luxon has retired from his position after seven years in the role.
He will step down from day-to-day leadership of the airline on September 25.
Air New Zealand chairman Tony Carter said: “The opportunity to lead New Zealand's most iconic company will attract many great candidates both internationally and within New Zealand. The Board has commenced an international search and expects to be in a position to announce the appointment of a new chief executive officer in the near future.
“Further, Christopher will be in the role until 25 September, and then he will move to advising and supporting the incoming Chairman and new CEO so we have a seamless transition and are set up well for further success."
Commenting on the decision, Luxon commented: “Our customer centricity, commercial focus, and highly engaged culture have made Air New Zealand the most revered company in our part of the world as reflected in our corporate reputation rankings on both sides of the Tasman.
“It has been an awesome journey and what we have achieved by working together with a common goal of supercharging New Zealand's success economically, environmentally and socially has been nothing short of remarkable.
“I have absolutely loved the responsibility and experience of leading this company over the last seven years. It has been intellectually challenging, people centred and an absolute privilege to do this job. However, I do feel it is the right time for a new leader to take over and preserve and enhance the good things from our past, but also to put their own stamp on the organisation bringing their own personality and emphasis to the role as I did.