Unlocking Kāpiti Coast’s economic development and investment opportunities through new Trust model

Last night’s signing of the Kāpiti NZ Trust deed was a significant milestone for Kāpiti Coast’s new operating model for economic development which focuses on delivering better returns for the district’s community.  

Kāpiti Coast District Mayor Janet Holborow says this new approach will support stronger economic outcomes over time, reducing Council’s reliance on ratepayer funding and providing the district with resilience during challenging economic periods. 

“Kāpiti NZ’s medium to long-term focus will not only help our local businesses to thrive, but it will help create more employment opportunities for our residents and generate returns that will be able to be used in our community,” says Mayor Holborow. 

“This will build on the momentum created by the independent Economic Development Kotahitanga Board (EDKB). 

“We acknowledge the hard work of Chair Neil MacKay and EDKB members who have, for the past six years, provided leadership and strategic direction, and partnered with the local business community to drive our district forward.  

“Now that the Trust has been formally settled, we’ll be working with the trustees to support their establishment processes. 

“This includes working with Council to develop a Letter of Expectation and setting accountability through agreed governance and relationship arrangements, including the use and outcomes expected from any Council funding provided.” 

As part of the new model, Kāpiti NZ Trust will establish a Limited Liability Company which will have the ability to attract investment and undertake opportunities the Council is unable to do on its own. This includes co-investing in projects with businesses, research groups, property developers, Māori landowners, and central government. 

“Kāpiti NZ has six high-calibre trustees, selected for their depth and breadth of experience across private, public, and not-for-profit sectors. Our district’s economic growth is in good hands,” says Mayor Holborow. 

Council-appointed Trustee Chris Roberts says the new economic development model balances independence and partnership.  

“Council will determine what the priority outcomes are while the Trust will support initiatives to deliver those outcomes and ensure alignment with community objectives,” says Mr Roberts.  

"As trustees, our role will be to manage risk, move with agility, and hold the new economic development company accountable for delivery. 

"The new structure offers responsiveness and long-term sustainability, while retaining strong accountability to community aspirations and Council’s Economic Development Strategy, enabling businesses, industry, and the wider community to flourish in a productive, innovative, and sustainable way.” 

During the Trust’s establishment period, the Economic Development Kotahitanga Board will continue to provide advisory support pending the establishment of the new limited liability company and agreement of the Letter of Expectation between Council and the Trust. 

Kāpiti NZ Trustees 

Chris Roberts (council-appointed Trustee) 

Chris Roberts is an experienced executive and director and has been a Kāpiti ratepayer for two decades. He is the Council-appointed member of the trust. As Chief Executive of Tourism Industry Aotearoa, Chris supported the tourism sector through the Covid pandemic. He is currently a director of Tourism New Zealand and Te Nukuao Wellington Zoo. 

Josie Adlam 

Josie Adlam is an experienced independent director across not-for-profit social enterprises, public sector organisations, and start-up and high growth businesses, including chair responsibilities at The Sustainability Trust, Home in Place New Zealand, and Tautoko Options.  She has lived in Kapiti for over 30 years and also has experience in the distribution of charitable funding. 

John Barrett 

John Barrett is a long-time Kāpiti resident and a locally based tourism business operator. Nominated to the trust by Te Whakaminenga o Kapiti - Iwi Partnership Board, John is a director/chairperson with national and international experience, with interests in housing, health and social services, education, tourism and wider economic development. 

Tracey Kai 

Tracey Kai is Chief Executive of Electricity Networks Aotearoa. Her previous roles have included Group Manager Operations at the NZ Infrastructure Commission, and Group Manager Communications at NZ Rugby. Her governance experience includes time on Construction Health and Safety NZ, and Hurricanes and Wellington Rugby Boards. 

John Page 

John Page is a resident of Ōtaki and works as a governance consultant. He writes, teaches and mentors with a focus on structures, accountability and performance. Previously he had a long career in management within the performing arts and events areas and has a deep understanding of the not-for-profit space, especially sport and the arts. 

Gerard Quinn 

Gerard Quinn is currently Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurship at University of Canterbury. He brings an innovative mindset and direct economic development experience to the Trust, having been Chief Executive of two regional economic development agencies and establishment Director of a third.