The MainPower Trust was delighted to host Electricity Trusts from around New Zealand at the annual ETNZ conference in Hanmer Springs in November.
Nearly all the country’s electricity trusts were represented, with delegates from 15 Trusts making the most of the two days at the Edit Hotel in the alpine village.
Most guests took advantage of the opportunity to get a look at the back of house at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pool and Spa on Wednesday night. A huge thank you to Sarah Wiblin and all the staff at the pools who made us feel very welcome.
On the first day of the conference, delegates heard from MainPower’s Acting Chief Executive, Damien Whiffen, about how the North Canterbury lines company is successfully navigating the changes in the electricity sector through innovation, collaboration and strategic thinking. This was followed by an update on the sector by Nicholas Albrecht following the release of the government’s Horizon report. Jonathan Kay also shared his insight into the political landscape as it currently stands and some updates on recent lobbying activity by the Trust.
Fidelity Capital and Sam Stubbs’ Simplicity both took some time to discuss debt funding and investment opportunities before Jonathan provided more detail around the July report from the Office of the Auditor General. Caroline Shone also shed some light on changes in the sector from the perspective of the EECA.
It was great to also hear from each Trust individually around what they’re doing and where they’re finding success. The day rounded out with a fabulous dinner featuring spectacular wine from The Bone Line, a North Canterbury vineyard and personally recommended by our own Chair, Kevin Brookfield.
Delegates enjoyed a second day of activity on Friday, starting off with a valuable workshop with Sara Deans from the Institute of Directors who shared some matrices for evaluating boards. Nigel Barbour followed with an update from Electricity Networks Aotearoa before a final round table with all those present.
The Hanmer Springs region turned on spectacular weather for the event, having mostly recovered from unprecedented winds only a couple of weeks prior. Delegates’ partners were treated to a tour of the Soldier’s Block, a local garden and other local sights and activities during the Thursday.
Thank you to everyone who attended and shared their insights and valuable knowledge and thank you to the MainPower team for assisting with the organisation and smooth running of the event. It was lovely to share time and experiences with our colleagues in beautiful surrounds and make the most of the opportunity to focus on our work going forward.
