Crown Fibre Holdings and Christchurch City Networks today announced the appointment of Mr Tim Lusk to chair Enable Networks Limited, the Local Fibre Company deploying Ultra Fast Broadband (UFB) infrastructure in Christchurch and Rangiora.

The appointment of Mr Lusk, formerly a director and then CEO of Meridian Energy, is a milestone in the development of Enable Networks Limited. The new partnership is undertaking an initial 10 year spend of around $440M for UFB deployment in Canterbury, which is expected to begin later this year. Some 1400 jobs will be generated in the region by the project.

Mr Lusk's career has included notable leadership positions such as General Manager, Industry Development at Transpower New Zealand, and General Manager of Wholesale Services at Telecom New Zealand Limited.

"Tim Lusk brings significant infrastructure experience in the electricity and telecommunications industries to this role," said Simon Allen, Chair of Crown Fibre Holdings. "We are delighted to have him leading this Board."

"His background in managing substantial infrastructure projects and as a key player in wholesale and retail utilities markets makes Mr Lusk an excellent Chair," said Christchurch City Networks Chairman, Bill Luff.

"This is an exciting appointment, at a time when Christchurch is on the threshold of change." said Mr Lusk, "I look forward to making a positive contribution to the city's rebuilding programme as we roll out new UFB infrastructure."