Health Minister Tony Ryall has announced the appointment of Graeme Milne as the new chair of the Waikato District Health Board.

Mr Ryall said, "Mr Milne brings extensive management and governance experience to the board of the Waikato DHB.

Mr Milne is a company director and farmer based in Cambridge.

"He is currently director or chairman of several companies across the electricity, insurance, pharmaceutical, fertiliser and dairy sectors," Mr Ryall said.

Mr Milne's appointment begins on 18 May 2009 and ends on 5 December 2010.

Mrs Sally Christie remains as Deputy Chair.