29 October 2025
Northpower acquires Connell Contractors
Northpower is pleased to announce it has signed an agreement to acquire Connell Contractors, a well-established Waikato based contracting firm, specialising in providing civil and structural works in complex electricity and water environments, including substations, wind and solar farms, hydroelectric dams, geothermal generation and hydrogen refuelling stations.
The change is consistent with Northpower’s commitment to growing the capabilities needed to support New Zealand’s Energy Sector. Both companies support clients across the New Zealand Transmission and Distribution sector, and both are active in providing infrastructure support to the deployment of new renewable solutions such as solar and battery storage.
“This acquisition is an exciting step forward for both Northpower and Connell. For Northpower we are pleased to be able to add our expertise to support the growth of a business that makes a critical contribution in our sector. For the Connell teams, we hope the acquisition sends the message that we are keen to see that extended”.
says Ollie O’Neill, Chief Operating Officer New Business at Northpower.
Lester Foxall, Chief Executive of Connell Contractors, will continue leading the company as it operates as a standalone entity within Northpower. “I’m enthusiastic about joining the New Zealand-owned Northpower group of companies. Northpower’s focus on supporting the needs of the energy industry, providing a highly professional service, and growing professional and trade skills across the sector are strongly aligned to Connell’s commitment to our clients”.
“We are thrilled to see the next chapter for Connell Contractors play out with Northpower. They are an organisation committed to making a positive impact in infrastructure, and we know the Connell teams will go from strength to strength in that sort of environment. We have built a business with real heart and professionalism over the past 40 years, and it’s great to see the business pass to others who see the value of that”, commented David and Margot Connell, who established Connell Contractors in 1985.
While now part of the Northpower Group of companies, Connell Contractors will continue to operate independently. It’s business as usual, under the existing CEO and Management team, with Connell continuing to offer the same high-quality service to its customers. The leadership teams are working closely to ensure a smooth transition, with continuity for employees, customers and suppliers.
The acquisition is due to complete on 31 October 2025.
