Austral Pool and Spa Products NZ appoints new MD

Phil Bentley has been appointed managing director of Austral Pool and Spa Products NZ, effective April 1, 2025.

Bentley joined Austral NZ in June 2024 as general manager, bringing with him extensive leadership experience in sales and marketing with international brands.

Prior to joining Austral, he had spent three years in the pool industry as general manager of Oasis Heat Pumps, solidifying his expertise in the sector. Prior to this Bentley held senior sales and marketing leadership roles distributing international sporting goods brands such as Under Armour and Adidas into the NZ market with notable success.

Bentley takes over from previous managing director Mike Rippon, who is continuing to provide his expertise and guidance in a senior technical consultancy role at Austral.

“We are thrilled to have Phil take on the role of managing director,” says Rippon. “His leadership, industry knowledge and strategic vision will be instrumental in driving Austral’s continued growth, built on industry-leading customer experience and innovation.”

Rippon says that Bentley’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Austral as the company continues to strengthen its position in the NZ market.

Austral NZ is a leading swimming pool and spa equipment distributor in New Zealand and is a subsidiary of the BWT group of companies.