Olympics: NZOC chief executive Kereyn Smith stands down after Tokyo success

New Zealand Olympic Committee chief executive Kereyn Smith is standing down from her position, following the conclusion of the Tokyo Games.

Smith had led the NZOC since 2011, and oversaw three Olympic campaigns, two Winter Olympics and two Commonwealth Games.

But after New Zealand's Tokyo campaign - the country's most successful at a single Olympics in terms of medals won - Smith is stepping aside.

"This role has been incredibly rewarding and I could not be more proud of what the New Zealand Olympic Committee has achieved during the last ten years," Smith says. 

"It is a job that brings many challenges, not least of those that have been faced by sport and the Olympic Movement in the last 18 months.

"It has been a real joy to see our New Zealand Olympic and Commonwealth teams lead the way in this regard, showcasing our nation's character and capability both on the world stage, and here in Aotearoa. Likewise, I am proud of our standing in world sport.

 "I extend my heartfelt thanks to the New Zealand Olympic Committee Board and staff as well as my colleagues in Sport NZ, HPSNZ and our national sporting organisations. 

"Their contribution and collaboration to achieve on behalf of New Zealand's Olympic and Commonwealth athletes has been invaluable to me both personally and professionally."

New Zealand's Tokyo Olympics campaign was its most successful, winning 20 medals including seven gold, six silver and seven bronze.