Programme
| 8:00am | Venue Opens Breakfast and Networking | |
| 8:30am | Mihi Whakatau Peter Jackson, Taranaki Iwi, Te Ātiawa | |
| 8:40am | Infrastructure New Zealand Welcome Fraser Wyllie, Board Chair, Infrastructure New Zealand, Managing Director New Zealand and Pacific, McConnell Dowell | |
| 8:50am | Opening Address Antonia Watson, Chief Executive Officer, ANZ New Zealand |  |
| 9:00am | Government Address Hon Nicola Willis, Minister of Finance | |
| 9:05am | International Keynote: A Bipartisan Vision to Drive Infrastructure Investment Drawing on insights from Singapore and decades of experience, Andrew will explore how bipartisan approaches can unlock long-term investment, accelerate delivery, and lift national productivity. As the first keynote of the event, this session will challenge us to think beyond political cycles and focus on the partnerships, policies, and funding strategies that can transform infrastructure outcomes for generations to come. Andrew Tan, Independent Director, Ex-Operating Partner/Managing Director Temasek Int’l, Former CEO Maritime & Port Authority, CEO National Environment Agency, Deputy Secretary Foreign Affairs Singapore | |
| 9:40am | All Great Minds Don’t Think Alike: The Importance of Diversity of Thought in Infrastructure In a sector as complex and rapidly evolving as infrastructure, diversity of thought is not just a tick-box exercise, it’s a key driver of better outcomes. Bringing together a range of perspectives, experiences and ways of thinking drives innovation, strengthens decision-making and leads to infrastructure that better serves our communities. No single mindset, viewpoint or frame of reference can solve the challenges we face. Embracing diversity of thought allows us to question established practices and introduce fresh approaches to complex problems. Join Sara Cheetham, Major Projects and Construction Partner at Dentons, as she explores how diversity of thought can help shape successful infrastructure delivery. Sara Cheetham, Partner – Major Projects & Construction, Dentons |  |
| 9:50am | MORNING TEA | |
| SESSION 2: FUNDING OUR LONG TERM INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN | ||
| 10:20am | Ministerial Address In this session, we will hear from Hon. Chris Bishop, who will outline the Government’s vision for delivering a resilient, future-ready infrastructure system. In this keynote address, the Minister will share insights on long-term planning, funding priorities, and the critical policy shifts needed to drive delivery and improve outcomes across the country. This is a unique opportunity to hear directly from the Minister shaping New Zealand’s infrastructure future. Hon Chris Bishop, Minister for Infrastructure, Housing, RMA Reform, Transport | |
| 10:50am | Premier Sponsor Keynote As part of our Premier Sponsor session, we will hear from ANZ’s Chief Economist and Head of Research, Richard Yetsenga, who will provide expert insights on the economic landscape shaping infrastructure investment in New Zealand and globally. Drawing on ANZ’s deep research capability, Richard will explore the key economic trends, risks, and opportunities influencing long-term infrastructure planning, funding, and delivery. This premier sponsor session offers valuable perspectives from one of the country’s leading financial institutions on how we can align economic strategy with infrastructure ambition. Richard Yetsenga, Group Chief Economist and Head of Research, ANZ Group | |
| 11:20am | Future Funding This session explores the potential of New Zealand’s infrastructure sector through different forms of funding. Drawing on international models and local insights, speakers will examine how capital from stable investment will enable strategic priorities to deliver intergenerational benefits. Our speaker will highlight the opportunities, challenges, and next steps for the future proofing our nation’s infrastructure system. Hon Shane Jones, Regional Development Minister | |
| 11:35am | Opposition Leader Speech Leader of the Opposition Chris Hipkins will speak to the importance of bold decisions and big calls for a better future. Rt Hon Chris Hipkins, Labour Leader | |
| 11:50am | What Does it Take to Ensure the National Infrastructure Plan is Enduring – Hong Kong’s Approach to Enhancing Productivity in the Construction Industry New Zealand’s infrastructure sector is strong, but inefficiencies are costing us. As an industry, we must acknowledge we can be slow to change. Tools to lift productivity already exist – AI and automation, prefabrication, smarter project management methods. Great work is happening within individual companies, but to make real inroads, we need industry-level collaboration to drive transformation. The National Infrastructure Plan is a genuine step forward and lays out clear priorities for responding to New Zealand’s infrastructure challenges. However, we must now turn plans into outcomes. In this session, Dr Alex Katsanos will speak to Hong Kong’s approach to enhancing productivity of the construction industry through three high impact issues – workforce development, data and digital innovation, and programme management. Hong Kong’s approach aims to cut construction costs and boost productivity by 10% or more. Dr Alex Katsanos PhD, FICE, Managing Principal, Advisory – Asia, Aurecon | |
| 12:20pm | Lunch |  |
| Leaders’ Lunch |   | |
| SESSION 3A: OUR CHANGING CLIMATE, PROTECTING AOTEAROA FOR FUTURE GENERATION | ||
| 1:20pm | Adaptation Planning in Action This session features a keynote presentation from Rt Hon Dame Patsy Reddy, Chair of the Climate Change Commission’s Board, followed by a facilitated Q&A with Jo Hendy, Chief Executive of the Climate Change Commission. Together, they will explore how New Zealand can move from strategy to action in climate adaptation, highlighting the governance, investment, and leadership needed to safeguard communities and infrastructure. This is a rare opportunity to hear from two of Aotearoa’s foremost climate leaders on the pathways to building resilience for the generations to come. Rt Hon Dame Patsy Reddy, Chairperson, Climate Change Commission | |
| 2:00pm | Balancing Urban Development with Environmental Management This panel aims to explore the dynamic intersection of urban development and environmental management, focusing on how integrated approaches can foster resilient, sustainable communities. By examining the trade-offs, challenges, and innovative solutions involved in balancing growth with ecological stewardship, the discussion will highlight strategies for achieving long-term sustainability. Panellists will share insights from policy and practice to inspire collaborative action and systems thinking in shaping the cities and towns of tomorrow. Craig West, New Zealand Country Lead (Te Whatu Rangataua) and Executive General Manager for Transport and Infrastructure, Downer Facilitated by: Katie Bradford, Strategy and Engagement Manager, Infrastructure New Zealand |  |
| 2:40pm | Optimising Electricity Market Settings for a Sustainable Energy Future Achieving a sustainable, resilient, and cost-effective energy system for Aotearoa requires the right market signals, regulatory frameworks, and commercial settings to support renewable energy investment and decarbonisation. This panel will explore what’s needed to accelerate progress and unlock the full potential of our energy transition. John Clarke, Executive General Manager Future Grid, Transpower Facilitated by: Harsharan Singh, Operations Manager, Ventia |  |
| SESSION 3B: FUNDING OUR FUTURE, INVESTING IN PRODUCTIVITY AND PROSPERITY | ||
| 1:20pm | A Global Perspective on Infrastructure Investment Opportunities In this keynote session, we will hear from Jo Spillane, Global Head of Macquarie Asset Management, will share international perspectives on the evolving landscape of infrastructure investment. Drawing on Macquarie’s global experience, Jo will explore where the biggest opportunities lie, how investor expectations are shifting, and what New Zealand can learn from international trends to attract capital and drive long-term prosperity. This session offers a unique opportunity into how global investment flows are shaping the future of infrastructure. Jo Spillane, Executive Director and Global Head of Private Capital Markets, Macquarie Capital Fireside Chat Facilitated by: Michael Loan, Partner, Russell McVeagh | |
| 2:00pm | Getting The Settings Right – FDI, and Domestic Investment This session will explore how New Zealand can sharpen its investment strategy to attract foreign direct investment and strengthen domestic capital flows. With a focus on value creation, delegates will gain insight into how smart investment settings can drive productivity, enable sustainable growth, and build resilience in an increasingly competitive global environment. The discussion will highlight how aligning investor expectations with national priorities can unlock transformative opportunities. This is a vital conversation for those interested in how investment frameworks can shape New Zealand’s future prosperity. Kate West, Chief Officer, Business & Markets, Asia Pacific (APAC) Region, Arup Facilitated by: Michelle McCormick, Policy Director, Infrastructure New Zealand |  |
| 2:40pm | Revitalising Infrastructure – The Role of Asset Recycling This session sponsored by WSP, will explore how asset recycling can help revitalise New Zealand’s infrastructure. Asset recycling offers a pathway to deliver critical projects without overburdening public finances. Featuring both domestic and international perspectives, the discussion will examine how to design effective asset recycling strategies, manage public expectations, and ensure long-term value for communities. With infrastructure needs growing and funding pressures intensifying, this session offers a look at how smart recycling initiatives can boost productivity, improve service delivery, and support New Zealand’s economic future. Rami Affan, Technical Executive – Strategic Advisory, WSP Facilitated by: Shane Ellison, Chief Executive, Tāwhirimātea Advisory Limited |  |
| 3:20pm | Afternoon Tea | |
| SESSION 4: BETTER BY DESIGN, UNLOCKING SYSTEM-WIDE IMPROVEMENT | ||
| 3:40pm | Case Study: Building for the Long Haul at Auckland Airport Auckland Airport is the gateway for over 18.5 million travellers and NZ$26 billion in trade annually. AKL is underway with a once-in-a-generation infrastructure development programme, spanning terminals, transport and airfield. In this session we explore the challenges AKL has faced, the opportunities and benefits of the construction programme, and throw forward to how the airport upgrade will support New Zealand’s growth ambitions. Carrie Hurihanganui, Chief Executive, Auckland Airport | |
| 4:10pm | Getting to Market Faster Join us for an engaging panel discussion, proudly sponsored by Fulton Hogan, exploring how New Zealand can achieve a world-leading edge in infrastructure procurement. This session will demonstrate that when procurement is approached as a true partnership, built on trust, collaboration, and shared values, projects move from planning to market with greater speed and certainty. Our expert panellists will showcase local yet real-world examples where innovative procurement strategies, transparent relationships, and adaptive frameworks have delivered timely and successful outcomes. Discover how the sector can unlock efficiency gains and drive better value, all while getting vital work to market more quickly for the benefit of New Zealand. Session opening: Ben Hayward, Chief Executive, Fulton Hogan Andrew Robertson, National Manager Commercial Delivery – Transport Services, NZ Transport Agency Facilitated by: Katie Bradford, Strategy and Engagement Manager, Infrastructure New Zealand |  |
| 4:40pm | Bipartisanship in Action – What are the Next Concrete Steps? With cross-party collaboration critical to unlocking long-term infrastructure progress, Hon. Chris Bishop and Hon. Kieran McAnulty come together for a facilitated fireside chat exploring what genuine bipartisan action looks like in practice. Together, they’ll unpack the next concrete steps needed to turn shared intentions into tangible outcomes, reflecting on how collaboration can help overcome political, funding, and delivery challenges. This session offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from two senior leaders on the future of New Zealand’s infrastructure agenda. Hon Chris Bishop, Minister for Infrastructure, Housing, RMA Reform, Transport Facilitated by: Katie Bradford, Strategy and Engagement Manager, Infrastructure New Zealand | |
| 5:10pm | Closing Remarks Nick Leggett, Chief Executive, Infrastructure New Zealand | |
| 5:20pm | Pre Dinner Networking Function |  |
| 7:30pm | BNZ Gala Dinner and Building Nations Impact Awards |  |
| 10:00pm | Post Dinner Networking Function |  |
| 8:00am | Venue Opens Breakfast and Networking | |
| 8:50am | Day Two Welcome and Opening Katrina Van Houtte, Board Deputy Chair, Infrastructure New Zealand, Partner, Dentons | |
| SESSION 5: DELIVERING A VISION TOGETHER, PUTTING PEOPLE AT THE CENTRE | ||
| 9:00am | Understanding the Mana Whenua Perspective: Collaborative Vision-Shaping Opening the second and final day of the Building Nations 2025 Helmut Modlik, Chief Executive of Te Rūnanga O Toa Rangatira, will share insights on the power of collaboration and the importance of embedding mana whenua perspectives in shaping Aotearoa’s infrastructure future. This session will explore how partnerships grounded in te ao Māori can deliver more inclusive, enduring, and community-centred outcomes, ensuring infrastructure serves not just today’s needs, but generations to come. Helmut Modlik, Chief Executive, Te Rūnanga O Toa Rangatira | |
| 9:30am | International Keynote: Excellence in Delivery and Ensuring Equitable Outcomes Former Taoiseach (Prime Minister) of Ireland, Leo Varadkar, brings a global perspective on how governments can deliver major infrastructure projects that not only meet performance targets but also ensure fairness and equity for communities. This international keynote will explore lessons from Ireland’s experience in balancing delivery excellence with social outcomes, offering valuable insights for New Zealand as it seeks to build infrastructure that serves all its people. Leo Varadkar, Former Taoiseach (Prime Minister) of Ireland | |
10:00am
| Kia Tū Pakari Mō Āpōpō: Building an Infrastructure Workforce For Our Future Our sector continues to evolve and adapt to create and maintain the infrastructure we need for a flourishing Aotearoa. Our current workforce challenges create the perfect opportunity to rethink the skills and approaches we can collectively build so that we remain a thriving sector that delivers New Zealand’s infrastructure vision. Dr Penny Kneebone will speak to our collective opportunities in building the workforce we need for a bright future – a diverse workforce that learns from the best of the world and builds on what is unique about Aotearoa, a workforce that enables radical collaboration for heightened efficiency. A workforce that gets serious about the transformative impact of excellent asset management and response planning, and a workforce that delivers resilient infrastructure and supports a just transition. Penny Kneebone, Chief Executive, Tonkin + Taylor |  |
| 10:30am | Morning Tea | |
| SESSION 6A: DELIVERING IMPACT THROUGH COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS | ||
| 10:55am | Minister for Local Government Address In this session, we will hear from Hon. Simon Watts will share his vision and priorities in his capacity as New Zealand’s Minister for Local Government. This address will explore how central and local government can work together more effectively to strengthen community outcomes, support local partnerships, and deliver infrastructure that meets the needs of diverse regions. It’s a timely opportunity to hear directly from the Minister shaping the future of local governance and delivery. Hon Simon Watts, Minister for Local Government | |
| 11:20am | Funding the Frontline – Rethinking Local Government Investment Delivering on New Zealand’s infrastructure vision requires local government to be more than service providers – they must be strategic investors and partners. Join us for an insightful fireside chat delving into the complexities of managing capital works portfolios in local government. This engaging discussion will explore practical approaches to robust portfolio governance, strategic alignment, proactive risk management, financial oversight, and the pivotal role of technology in ensuring projects deliver intended value from ideation through to operational handover. Discover how you can unlock greater efficiency, predictability, and long-term success in capital planning and execution. Rogier Roelvink, Customer and Industry Value Engagement Director, Oracle |  |
| 11:50am | Mayoral Insights on Challenges and Opportunities in Local Government Election Year With local body elections in October, mayors face the dual challenge of delivering on today’s priorities while shaping a compelling vision for tomorrow. This session offers a candid look at the pressures, opportunities, and leadership lessons from the frontlines of local government. Mayor Tamah Alley, Mayor of Central Otago Mayor Campbell Barry, Mayor of Lower Hutt Mayor Mahé Drysdale, Mayor of Tauranga Facilitated by: Katie Bradford, Strategy and Engagement Manager, Infrastructure New Zealand | |
| SESSION 6B: RETHINKING HOW WE FUND INFRASTRUCTURE | ||
| 10:55am | Innovative Infrastructure Projects Through Māori Collaboration Māori partnerships are reshaping the infrastructure landscape. This can be seen through innovation, co-investment, and shared outcomes. In this session, we’ll hear from leaders at the forefront of collaborative projects that deliver not only strong commercial returns but also social, cultural, and environmental value. Join us to learn how iwi, hapū, and Māori organisations are driving new funding models, embedding long-term stewardship, and unlocking opportunities that benefit both their people and the wider Aotearoa New Zealand. Boyd Scirkovich, Chief Economic Development & Investment Officer, Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira David Harrison, Head of Māori Relationships, ANZ New Zealand Alayna Rā, Indigenous Design Director, WSP Laura Harris, Partner, Mafic Facilitated by: Zoe Thompson, Chair, Women’s Infrastructure Network Wellington Chapter, Associate Director, Aecom | |
| 11:25am | Infrastructure New Zealand’s Canadian Delegation Report Back This session offers fresh insights from Infrastructure New Zealand’s recent delegation to Canada. Delegates will share key lessons and international best practices gathered on the ground . From innovative funding models and public-private partnerships to Indigenous-led infrastructure initiatives. Join us to hear how these global insights can help reimagine New Zealand’s own approach to funding and delivering the infrastructure it needs for the future. Manea Sweeney, Director, Tonkin + Taylor Fraser Wyllie, Board Chair, Infrastructure New Zealand, Managing Director New Zealand and Pacific, McConnell Dowell Sarah Anderson-Butler, Partner, Bell Gully Andrea Rickard, Managing Director, Beca Facilitated by: Nick Leggett, Chief Executive, Infrastructure New Zealand | |
| 11:50am | Implementing Road Pricing As governments grapple with rising congestion, climate targets, and funding shortfalls, road pricing has emerged as a powerful tool. This session will explore practical pathways for implementing road pricing in New Zealand, drawing on lessons from international case studies and local trials. Panellists will examine the potential benefits, challenges, and equity impacts of shifting to user-pays models, and discuss how road pricing can support better network performance, more sustainable travel choices, and long-term infrastructure funding. Phil Davies, Executive Principal, Jacobs Facilitated by: Zoe Thompson, Chair, Women’s Infrastructure Network Wellington Chapter, Associate Director, Aecom |  |
| 12:30pm | Lunch |  |
| Leaders’ Lunch |  | |
| SESSION 7A: DELIVERING SYSTEM CERTAINTY TO ENABLE INFRASTRUCTURE UPLIFT | ||
| 1:30pm | Meeting the Expectations of Infrastructure Users A chance to explore aspects such as infrastructure constraints in meeting demand, pricing and regulatory arrangements, the voice of the customer in decision-making and future provision planning. Sarah Gillies, Chief Executive, Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko Jason Paris, Chief Executive, One New Zealand Rebecca MacDonald, General Manager Capital Projects (Acting), Fonterra Facilitated by: Katie Bradford, Strategy and Engagement Manager, Infrastructure New Zealand | |
| 2:05pm | Optimising Asset Management for Enhanced Outcomes This session, sponsored by Beca, will showcase the findings of a joint report developed in partnership with Infrastructure New Zealand. The discussion will explore how optimised asset management can drive better performance, extend asset life, and deliver improved outcomes across the infrastructure system. Join us to unpack practical insights, key recommendations, and the steps needed to strengthen New Zealand’s asset management approach for the future. Session opening: Chris Dunlop, Regional Manager – Central, Beca Dr Theuns Henning, Associate Professor, Civil Engineering, The University of Auckland Raveen Jaduram, Board Chair, New Zealand Infrastructure Commission, Te Waihanga David Jenkins, CEO, Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia Facilitated by: Tracey Haszard, General Manager – Transport, Beca |  |
| 2:40pm | Getting the Basics Right: How the RMA Overhaul Is Delivering Certainty for Infrastructure With major changes underway to the Resource Management Act, the session will explore how these reforms can streamline approvals, reduce delays, and provide greater certainty for infrastructure delivery. Expert speakers will unpack the practical implications of the changes, identify potential challenges, and discuss how government, industry, and communities can work together to ensure the reforms deliver real-world impact. This is an essential conversation for those interested in how getting the basics right in our legislative frameworks can unlock infrastructure uplift, improve outcomes, and drive long-term national benefit. Geoff Simmons, Chief Economist, Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment | |
| SESSION 7B: ENABLING INFRASTRUCTURE TO DELIVER FOR COMMUNITIES | ||
| 1:30pm | Leveraging Private Finance to Enable Social Infrastructure In this session, our speakers will explore how well-designed infrastructure can deliver meaningful outcomes for the communities it serves. The discussion will focus on how private investment can be aligned with public priorities and utilised to accelerate the delivery of New Zealand’s much needed social infrastructure. Drawing on local and international examples, the session will explore different funding and delivery models that have been used to deliver social infrastructure and highlight the importance of collaboration between government, private partners, and communities to achieve inclusive, equitable, and lasting outcomes. This conversation is essential for anyone interested in how infrastructure can go beyond physical assets to create real social impact. Kelvin Yu, Director, Origination, Plenary Group Susan Lucking, Head of Infrastructure, Government & Specialised Finance, Institutional Banking, Bank of New Zealand Zinzan Currey, Balance Sheet and Transactions, Te Tai Ohanga, The Treasury Co-Facilitated by: Catherine Shipton, Senior Associate, Simpson Grierson Edward Norman, Partner, Simpson Grierson |  |
| 2:05pm | Getting Urban Development Right for Successful Communities This session explores how thoughtful, well-integrated urban development can create vibrant, successful places for people to live, work, and thrive. We’ll examine the critical links between infrastructure, land use, and community outcomes, looking at how better planning, design, and delivery can unlock housing supply, support economic growth, and strengthen social cohesion. Join us for a conversation on how to get urban development right for the benefit of all New Zealanders. James Palmer, Chief Executive, Community Finance Sam Stubbs, Managing Director, Simplicity Greg Foster, Territorial Director of Social Housing (SASH) and Property, Salvation Army Facilitated by: Katie Bradford, Strategy and Engagement Manager, Infrastructure New Zealand | |
| 2:35pm | Delivering NZ’s Most Complex Infrastructure Project – City Rail Link This session showcases the Link Alliance and its approach to delivering one of New Zealand’s most complex infrastructure projects the City Rail Link. With a focus on technical excellence, system integration, and collaboration-driven delivery, the discussion will highlight how the Link Alliance is achieving results while embedding broader outcomes. From social procurement and workforce development to strong partnership with mana whenua, safety leadership, we’ll discuss how large-scale infrastructure can drive both operational success and long-term value. Wayne Cooney, Systems & One Client Director, City Rail Link Limited Aleshia Perry, Rail Executive, WSP Francois Dudouit, Project Director, Vinci Construction Grand Projects Facilitated by: Katie Bradford, Strategy and Engagement Manager, Infrastructure New Zealand |  |
| 3:10pm | Afternoon Tea | |
| SESSION 8: LIFTING PRODUCTIVITY ACROSS THE SYSTEM | ||
| 3:30pm | Building a Better Tomorrow, Coordinating Industry Around a Vision New Zealand needs coordination between industry and government to deliver the infrastructure necessary to meet its ambition. This discussion will explore how the private sector can partner with government and communities to deliver on a vision: one of higher productivity, greater innovation, and a more dynamic economy and society. Countries that chose a partnership path can thrive, and we’ll unpack the vital role industry plays in shaping a stronger, more efficient infrastructure future. Adam Naiman, Director, EY Parthenon |  |
| 4:00pm | New Zealand Infrastructure System Settings – Are We Making Progress? In our final session, Te Waihanga’s Geoff Cooper and Niffco’s Graham Mitchell come together for a fireside chat exploring whether New Zealand’s infrastructure system settings are truly delivering the progress the country needs. Together, they’ll reflect on recent reforms, highlight areas of success and ongoing challenge, and discuss what further changes may be required to unlock better outcomes. This is a valuable opportunity to hear two sector leaders share candid insights on the state of the system and where it needs to go next. Graham Mitchell, Chief Executive, National Infrastructure Funding and Financing Facilitated by: Sophie Dawson, Partner, EY | |
| 4:30pm | Closing Remarks Nick Leggett, Chief Executive, Infrastructure New Zealand | |
| 4:40pm | End of Conference Buses depart Tākina Events to Wellington Airport |