Tauranga's Paul Chapman has been recognised for a career dedicated to supporting and encouraging operators in the road transport sector.

Paul received the transport industry's Supreme Contribution to New Zealand Road Transport Award at this year's Road Transport Forum Annual Conference in Tauranga.

A retired NZTA senior transport officer, Paul was presented the award at the conference held at ASB Stadium for a career dedicated to supporting and encouraging operators in the road transport sector to meet their many compliance obligations as well helping to address important safety issues across the sector.

Paul has been instrumental in building good relationships between NZTA, the various road transport associations and the broader industry, says Road Transport Forum chief executive Ken Shirley.

The Industry Consultation Meetings and Service Providers Consultation Meetings that Paul established give operators, associations and government officials the ability to talk freely and honestly with each other and address issues before they escalate.

'Paul's support and contribution to our industry is without question,” says Ken.

'As one nominator put it, ‘Paul has given his working life to the heavy vehicle industry,' and it is fantastic that his nomination is supported by so many across the sector.”

Nominators credit Paul's knowledge of the industry as second to none.

'Paul is a true friend of the road transport industry and he fully deserves this award.”