At Semenoff Stadium, Northpower Chief Executive Andrew McLeod opened the event by reflecting on Northland Corporate Group’s $60 billion by 2050 ambition and the role infrastructure can play in achieving it. 

Journalist and broadcaster Miriama Kamo moderated a panel of four experts including Northpower Chair Mark Trigg, Electra Chair Murray Bain, Independent Director of Channel Infrastructure Felicity Underhill, and Mayor of Whangārei District Ken Couper. 

The panel explored why Northland is well placed for growth, which infrastructure outcomes could create the greatest benefit, and what investors need to see before committing capital. 

Panellists also discussed the importance of keeping Northland’s priorities visible with central government, aligning business, iwi and local government around a shared vision, and demonstrating clear progress from ambition to delivery. 

At the end of the discussion, the panel concluded that infrastructure builds confidence for private investment, which builds economic outcomes, and in turn builds the case for additional infrastructure investment. 

The event reinforced the importance of maintaining a shared focus on Northland’s long-term ambitions and turning discussion into progress. We would like to thank our moderator, panellists and guests for contributing their perspectives and making the first Connection event a success.