Karakia and mihi
Opening and welcome.
Central North Island Investment Summit 2027
Summit Programme
Bringing together investors, business leaders and industry representatives to explore the opportunities shaping investment across the Central North Island.
Sir Howard Morrison Centre, Rotorua · 9:00 AM · 11 · 03 · 2027
Principal sponsor
Morning
Setting the scene
Welcome and opening remarks
An introduction to the Summit and the importance of working together to attract investment to the Central North Island.
Honoured speakers
- Mayor Tania TapsellRotorua Lakes Council
- Mayor John FunnellTaupō District Council
The investment outlook: New Zealand and the regions
An overview of the global and national investment environment, where capital is moving and what investors are looking for. The session will consider New Zealand's position and the role of regional investment in supporting future growth.
- Robert WallChief Executive, Invest New Zealand
Additional speaker to be announced.
Morning tea and networking
Midday
The regional opportunity
The Central North Island investment opportunity
An introduction to the region's strengths, its economic contribution and the opportunities for investment across Rotorua and Taupō.
- Rick KeehanChief Executive, Amplify Taupō
- Andrew WilsonChief Executive, RotoruaNZ
Sector focus: Renewable energy
Exploring the Central North Island's strengths in geothermal and renewable energy, future generation opportunities and how access to reliable, low-emissions energy can support new industries and investment.
- Abbie DeanExternal Engagement Lead, New Zealand Geothermal Association
Speakers to be announced.
Sector focus: Forestry and the bioeconomy
Looking beyond traditional forestry to opportunities in wood processing, advanced manufacturing and bio-based products, and how the region's forestry resources can support higher-value industries.
- Ryan CavanaghChief Executive, Kaingaroa Tipu
Additional speaker to be announced.
Supported by
Sector focus: Visitor economy
Exploring opportunities for investment in tourism attractions, accommodation and infrastructure, and how continued investment can strengthen the region's visitor offering and long-term growth.
- Geoff McDonaldChief Executive, Skyline Enterprises
- Hayden PorterTourism and Hospitality Director
- Bruce ThomasenCo-founder, Redwoods Treewalk
Supported by
Lunch and networking
Afternoon
Investment in action
Deal Done sessions
Deal Done: Renewable energy
A practical look at geothermal development and investment, including the partnerships and decisions involved in bringing energy projects to life.
- Gina RangiChair, Tūaropaki Trust
Deal Done: Forestry and the bioeconomy
Exploring the investment behind modern wood processing and manufacturing, and what it takes to develop and grow industrial operations in the region.
- Marty VerryGroup Chief Executive, Red Stag Group
Supported by
Deal Done: Visitor economy
A perspective on developing and investing in tourism and commercial assets, including the opportunities, challenges and long-term decisions involved.
- David TapsellChair, Pukeroa Oruawhata Trust
Supported by
Closing keynote
Reflecting on the future of investment in New Zealand, the changing economic landscape and the opportunities ahead for regional growth.
- Adrian OrrChair, NZ Bio Forestry and former Governor of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand
Closing remarks and next steps
Bringing together the day's discussions and outlining opportunities for further engagement.
Networking drinks
An opportunity to continue conversations with speakers, investors and industry representatives.
Programme subject to change. Additional speakers will be announced as confirmed.