TAB New Zealand Interim Chair Anna Stove has today announced her resignation after a significant five-year contribution to the statutory body. 

Stove’s governance contribution began in 2019 when she joined the Racing Industry Transition Agency. She became Deputy Chair of the first TAB NZ Board in 2021, Interim Chair in September 2023, and was instrumental in securing TAB NZ’s strategic partnering arrangement with Entain. 

Her time on the board saw the implementation of the far-reaching changes to the racing industry recommended by the “Messara Report”, overcoming challenges in racing and sport posed by COVID restrictions, the negotiation and finalisation of the Entain strategic partnership, transitioning to TAB NZ’s new operating model, and making investments across both racing and sports. 

Stove said she is very proud of the legacy that has been created by TAB NZ during her time on the Board. 

“It has been a rewarding five years and more importantly we have delivered a sustainable long-term outcome for our stakeholders through the Entain partnership.”  

“I would like to thank the Minister, and all my director and management colleagues who I have worked with during this time. I have the utmost confidence in the remaining Board and management team continuing to build on the foundation we have laid – we are well placed for the next chapter. I feel very confident about the industry’s future and its contribution to the nation’s economy.”  

TAB NZ Chief Executive Officer, Nick Roberts, congratulated Stove on her contribution. 

“I would like to thank Anna for her leadership and drive. There’s no doubt that Anna leaves the organisation, and those who rely on our funding, in a better position than when she joined in 2019.” 

Although leaving the Board, Stove will continue to follow her lifelong interest in the racing industry through breeding and racing thoroughbreds from her Karaka property. 

Stove will continue as Interim Chair until a new appointment is made by the Minister for Racing.