Tristan Gilbertson reappointed to the Commerce Commission

Mr Gilbertson has been reappointed for a second 5-year term, starting on 8 June 2025 and ending on 7 June 2030.

Mr Gilbertson is a commercial lawyer with extensive international experience in the telecommunications sector. During his first term as Telecommunications Commissioner, he led work programmes relating to the economic regulation of telecommunications services, the development of retail service quality guidelines, and the monitoring and enforcement of competition in telecommunications markets. He was also involved in the Commission’s wider competition and consumer work – including the recent market study into banking.

Prior to joining the Commission, he held senior executive positions at Vodafone Group Plc, Telecom New Zealand Ltd (now Spark) and Digicel Group Ltd, where he led legal and regulatory teams supporting the development and growth of these businesses.

The Commission comprises 4 to 8 members appointed by the Governor-General. These members include:

• Chair
• Deputy Chair
• Telecommunications Commissioner
• Grocery Commissioner

At least 1 member must be a barrister and solicitor of at least 5 years’ standing.

The Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs recommends Commissioners for appointment for their knowledge and experience in the fields of industry, commerce, economics, law, accountancy, public administration or consumer affairs.

The Telecommunications Commissioner is appointed by the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Minister for Media and Communications.