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The Walshe Group has appointed aviation industry veteran Russell Williss as Sales & Marketing Manager for Air Niugini in New Zealand, ahead of the airline’s return to the Auckland–Port Moresby route.
A highly regarded and well-connected aviation executive, Russell returns to The Walshe Group following a senior leadership role with Hawaiian Airlines / Alaska Airlines, where he was Director New Zealand until November 2025.
Russell joined Hawaiian Airlines in 2015, having previously been the airline’s New Zealand Sales Manager with The Walshe Group. His career spans senior commercial and operational roles across aviation, travel and tourism, giving him extensive knowledge of the New Zealand market and strong relationships across the travel trade and corporate sectors.
His appointment comes at a pivotal time for Air Niugini, with the airline set to resume thrice-weekly nonstop services between Auckland and Port Moresby from November 17 2026. The service will mark the first direct air link between New Zealand and Papua New Guinea in more than 26 years.
The Walshe Group has represented Air Niugini in New Zealand since 1996.
In his new role, Russell will lead Air Niugini’s sales and marketing strategy across travel trade, corporate, MICE and emerging market segments, with a focus on revenue growth, strategic partnerships and strengthening the airline’s market position.
Key responsibilities will include sales and revenue analysis, developing and implementing market strategies, strengthening relationships with key trade and corporate partners, negotiating commercial agreements, and representing Air Niugini at industry events, expos and trade activities.
Williss will commence with The Walshe Group Monday September 14 and will be based in Auckland.
