It's an exciting and a challenging next step for Justin and I am confident that he will make an energetic and strongly intellectual contribution to this major art gallery, itself preparing for major transformation. We know him to be a gifted communicator and an inventive curator.

As well as being profoundly glad for him, it's hard also not to feel a sense of sadness. Hearty and warm congratulations stand alongside a keen disappointment at our losing such a creative and collegial member of staff who has contributed so much to how Christchurch Art Gallery re-invented itself pre-22 February 2011 and how collectively we are facing the current extended period of closure. Justin will finish here before Christmas and is starting at AGNSW in January 2014.

Above all, however, we should feel pleased and proud that one of us has been chosen by a major Australian gallery to continue his career there and to work with an exciting collection. It's excellent to have good friends in senior places in other galleries, colleagues who understand our DNA and what makes this place tick. We look forward to future collaborations

Here's an extract from AGNSW director Michael Brand's statement being released at 9.00am (their time):
Justin will be responsible for providing overall vision and direction for the Gallery's international collections and exhibition programs. Justin will bring a wealth of expertise and experience to our Gallery along with a reputation for highly creative thinking and writing. I am delighted he will soon be joining our team in Sydney as we plan for our ambitious Sydney Modern transformation and building expansion. His recent work has been marked by both innovation and community service. At Christchurch Art Gallery, Justin was curatorial leader for the complete reinstallation of their collection and then led their award-winning post-earthquake programme of public art installations and public programs. His ability to work creatively with artists and to speak to a global audience was clearly evident at this year's Venice Biennale.

Collectively, all at Christchurch art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū wish him well!!