New Zealand’s National Hydrographer, Adam Greenland, has been elected Director of the International Hydrographic Organisation.
Greenland’s appointment to the peak role comes on the back of more than 45 years of experience and leadership in hydrography and maritime safety.
His career began in the UK Merchant Navy at age 17, followed by 15 years as a hydrographic surveyor with the Port of London Authority. While there, Adam co-developed the internationally recognized MSc in Geospatial Sciences (Hydrographic Surveying).
Greenland was appointed National Hydrographer at LINZ in 2010, where he has led award-winning initiatives such as New Zealand’s first high-density Electronic Navigation Chart (ENC) and the Pacific Regional Navigation Initiative, which improved maritime safety across five Pacific Island nations.
And in 2017, he was presented with the Alexander Dalrymple Award for outstanding contributions to world hydrography.
“New Zealand is well regarded internationally for its work in hydrography and maritime safety,” said New Zealand’s Minister for Land Information, Mike Butterick.
“This appointment reflects the expertise New Zealand contributes to supporting safe and well managed oceans around the world. I congratulate Adam Greenland on being selected for this important international role.”
Reputation and recognition
According to LINZ Acting Chief Executive Jan Pierce, “Adam’s nomination and successful outcome at the IHO Assembly is an example of New Zealand punching above its weight in a highly specialised international field”.
“This appointment not only recognises Adam’s deep technical expertise but also his voice, reputation and leadership amongst the global hydrographic community,” said Pierce.
“His work has been integral to improving partnerships and collaboration, helping future-proof navigational standards and strengthening hydrographic capability within New Zealand and the Pacific, and across the world.
“We wish him well and look forward to seeing Adam’s achievements in his new international role,” Pierce added.
Elections for the role of IHO Director were held during the IHO Assembly earlier this month.
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