Meet Cody Linton – General Manager, Polytan New Zealand
Polytan New zealand GM Cody Linton on building world-class sports facilities, leadership through sport, and navigating industry challenges
Cody Linton, General Manager of Polytan New Zealand, grew up with deep roots in sport and civil engineering. A lifelong hockey player, Cody studied Sport Business Management and then Civil Engineering in New Zealand, before aligning his skills with his passion for sports and forging a career overseeing the delivery of top-tier sports facilities. With over 16 years of experience at Sport Group, Cody and his New Zealand team ensure that world-class athletic facilities are available for communities throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
How did you get started in the sports industry?
I studied Sport Business Management at Massey University in Palmerston North, but it was my civil construction background that really set me on this path. My father managed a civil construction company, so during school holidays, I was painting signs, water-blasting bridges, and working with asphalt crews. By the time I finished university, I was more drawn to civil engineering than sports management. I worked at dad’s company for a while, and that’s when I crossed paths with Sport Group. It was a natural fit—my love for sports and civil engineering came together perfectly.
What do you enjoy most about working at Sport Group?
The people, without a doubt. I’ve been with Sport Group for over 16 years, and most of the original team I started with are still here. There’s a real camaraderie within our Asia Pacific group. Many of us come from sports backgrounds, so we understand the importance of teamwork. Whether it’s the shared passion for delivering top-notch sports facilities or the mutual respect, it’s just a fantastic environment to be a part of. We’ve built a culture where everyone’s willing to pitch in to get the job done.
How has your sporting background influenced your approach?
I’ve played hockey my whole life and captained several teams, so leadership and teamwork have been a big part of my life, and I like to lead by example. If there’s a tough deadline, I’m happy to roll up my sleeves and be on-site with the team. It’s not just about giving orders down a phone—it’s about being there and ensuring the job gets done, no matter what. That work ethic and team-first mentality definitely come from my sporting days.
Can you describe your role at Polytan New Zealand?
As General Manager, I oversee a team of civil engineers, project managers, site managers, and installers. My job is quite diverse—one day, I might be working on sales, and the next, I could be supervising asphalt laying on an athletics track. We're a small, tight-knit team, so everyone has to get stuck in. It’s challenging, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. The variety keeps things interesting, and I still get to stay connected to the hands-on work, which I love.
What’s your view of the current market?
When we came out of COVID, there was uncertainty, especially around major projects, as councils were cautious about spending. But now, that hesitation has passed. In fact, we’ve got the largest forward workload we’ve ever had. Full-build projects are a big focus for us, and we’re positioned well to handle them, thanks to our civil engineering capabilities. Unlike some of our competitors, we can manage everything from start to finish, which sets us apart in the market. We’re also diversifying by offering design work and handling lighting projects, which has helped us maintain a steady income throughout the year, even during traditionally quiet periods.
What’s been the most memorable project to work on?
The Ngā Puna Wai Sports Hub in Christchurch really stands out. It was a massive $10 million project—two hockey fields, a class-one athletics track, and 12 tennis courts. This was after the 2011 earthquake, so it was about more than just building facilities. Athletics had been without a home in Christchurch for seven years, so being part of giving that back to the community was incredibly rewarding. It’s also New Zealand’s first FIH global class-one hockey pitch, which was special for me as a hockey player.
“Athletics had been without a home in Christchurch for seven years, so being part of giving that back to the community was incredibly rewarding.”
And what’s been the most challenging project?
The same one. Ngā Puna Wai was challenging due to its sheer scale and complexity, but we also face logistical challenges whenever we’re working in the Pacific Islands, overseeing the projects from New Zealand. Places like Fiji and Tonga bring up unique challenges, from getting materials on-site to sourcing crews. But despite the challenges, these projects are incredibly rewarding, because the community is so grateful for what you can achieve. You’re providing world-class facilities to communities that often don’t have much and seeing the joy on their faces when it’s all done makes it worthwhile.
How has your leadership style developed over the years?
My approach has definitely been shaped by sport. I captained hockey teams from a young age, and that taught me the importance of leading by example. Whether it’s on a hockey field or a construction site, you have to be there for your team, motivate them, and make sure everyone’s aligned on the goal. I’ve always believed in getting stuck into the work myself. If you want people to go the extra mile, they need to see that you’re willing to do the same.
What key challenges is the industry facing right now?
Sustainability is a huge one. We’re seeing growing emphasis on the responsible disposal of artificial turf and other materials. Europe is leading the way in this, and I think we’re about five years behind here in New Zealand. Recycling facilities are still in development, and there’s a lot of work to be done to meet future demands. Water usage, particularly for hockey pitches, is another area where we’re focusing. The cost of sustainability measures could impact decision-making around new projects, and it’s something we need to address as an industry.
When you’re not working, how do you like to spend your time?
I still play hockey and have taken up running marathons, which helps clear my head after long days. My family and I live on a small lifestyle block with cows and sheep, so there’s always something to keep us busy on the weekends. My eight-year-old son is getting into sports, so we’re often out playing hockey, basketball, or pickleball.