JIM BOULT ​​​​​​​ONZM - PATRON​​​​​​​

Jim Boult, a well-known individual in New Zealand, actively contributes to the not-for-profit sector, the business community, and local government. As the former mayor of Queenstown Lakes District Council from 2016 to 2022, Jim's leadership during the Covid-19 crisis, garnered widespread support.

Jim served as Chief Executive of Christchurch International Airport (CIAL) for five successful years and was a government appointee to the CIAL Board for six years. Jim managed the airport's operations during and after the Christchurch earthquakes. He oversaw the completion of a new terminal, which was delivered on time, and in line with the budget.

Jim has a range of business interests in construction, aviation, tourism, hospitality and more. He held significant positions as chair and director of reputable companies and government entities including Real NZ, Shotover Jet Group, Civil Aviation Authority, Hawkins Construction, and the Risk and Audit Committee for New Zealand Customs. Jim actively engages in directorships and external governance roles while contributing as a patron and ambassador to various organisations. Additionally, Jim serves as the Deputy Chair of Friends of Lake Hayes.

Jim’s personal interests

Jim and his wife Karen have been based at Lake Hayes, in New Zealand's South Island, for four decades. In Jim’s hometown of Queenstown, he has chaired numerous charities, council-sponsored working parties, and community groups including the Whakatipu Rowing Club. Jim has a close association with the club, as Jim helped obtain materials to build a new boat shed, the core of which stands today at the Lake Hayes shed.

“As a reward for his generous donation Jim was asked to be our patron which he accepted. So that’s 34 years now Jim, amazing how time goes by and we really do appreciate your long association with the club and the fact that you have maintained an interest in our activities over that whole time.”

Jim's personal interests include jogging, reading, and motorsport, in which he has competed at both national and international levels.

Jim’s awards and acknowledgements

Jim's contributions have been recognised with honours, including the Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit, Fellow of the New Zealand Institute of Management, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Queenstown Chamber of Commerce. Jim is a Life Member of the Child Cancer Foundation and was granted the Paul Harris Fellow distinction by Rotary for his community service in June 2021.