4 December 2025
Navigating change together – building resilient networks for the future
PROGRAMME
8:45am: Registration and morning tea
9:30am: Welcome – we are stronger, together.
9:40am: Navigating the tension: what can we afford
Geoff Cooper – Chief Executive, NZ Infrastructure Commission Te Waihanga
Strategies for how councils can deliver sustainable transport networks while easing ratepayer pressure – through bold trade-offs, fresh funding ideas and real-world solutions.
10:20am: Getting started, getting heard: a guide for new councillors and their councils
Monique Davidson – Chief Executive, Horowhenua District Council
Practical tips for managing political transitions and building trust to set new elected members and councils up for success.
11:00am: Straight from the steering wheel: what AA members are saying
Dylan Thomsen – Communications, Research & Road Safety Manager, AA
Insights into road users’ expectations about road condition, speed, safety and cycling as well as actions for councils to align with their communities.
11:40am: Networking opportunity over lunch
12:30pm: Good data, great outcomes: what REG can do for your region
Ann-Elise Reynolds – Manager Transportation, Whakatāne District Council
Dawn Inglis, Manager – RIMU (Road Infrastructure Measurement & Use), Co-Lab
Use sector co-designed tools, such as the Transport Insights web portal, to support evidence-based roading investment decisions.
1:00pm: Digital foundations: how Thinkproject is transforming asset and work management
James Lawrence – VP Software Engineering & ANZ Managing Director
The importance of data and efficient technologies for asset management and investment planning, including practical examples for future-proofing systems.
1:30pm: Afternoon tea
2:00pm: Hon Chris Bishop, Minister of Transport
Key achievements of GPS 24 and local government’s vital role in bringing these priorities to life for their communities.
2:45pm: GPS2024 and future direction for transport investment
Richard Cross – Director Investment & Monitoring, Ministry of Transport
Celebrate what has been delivered under GPS2024, and the emerging thinking for GPS2027.
3:15pm: Close – Steve Mutton
3:30pm: Forum ends