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11-13 September 2024
Tākina Convention and Exhibition Centre
Wellington, New Zealand
Thank you to all 390+ attendees who joined us for The Property Conference 2024. It was a pleasure to gather in Wellington for the first time in a decade for what was a spectacular three-day event.
Mark your calendar for 2025 when we head South to beautiful Queenstown!
You make the magic
The Property Conference is an essential event for decision-makers in the property industry. With a dynamic range of high-calibre speakers, the three-day event brings together visionary leaders and innovators, financial heavy-weights and influential drivers within local and central government.
This destination conference includes optional site tours, welcome function, networking party and two days of engaging plenary sessions.
We look forward to seeing you in Queenstown in 2025!
Once again, we’re bringing together a wealth of knowledge, talent and expertise.
Suggestions?
Let us know if there’s any particular topic, speaker or project you’d like to see grace the Property Conference stage in future – contact the events team today!
Have a look at the 2024 highlights!
Why attend TPC?
Aotearoa New Zealand’s premier event for property developers, investors, owners and professionals.
“I love learning stuff. I always come to these events and learn something new and innovative that’s exciting and that I can take back to the office.”
Phil Doyle
Business Manager, NZ Strong
Featured Speakers
A special thanks to our 2024 panellists and speakers.
Alexander Downer
Former Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia
Biography
Alexander Downer retired from politics in 2008 after a 24-year career. Before that he was a highly successful career diplomat. In every respect, Alexander Downer has served his country with enormous energy, passion, dedication and integrity.
Born in South Australia, schooled through Geelong Grammar and Radley College in Oxford, the son of a politician, Alexander was a leader with drive and enthusiasm from an early age. His University life at the University of Newcastle on Tyne in UK provided Alexander with a very international perspective on life that he was to use extensively through his later career. He has a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Politics and Economics and is a Doctor of Civil Laws (honoris causa). Alexander also holds a Doctor of Philosophy from Bar Ilan University.
His early roles of Economist to Westpac Bank and Australian diplomat serving in the Australian Missions to European Union and NATO, and as an Embassy representative in Belgium and Luxembourg, were excellent training grounds for Alexander’s later role as Minister for Foreign Affairs.
9:40am, Thursday 12 September
Keynote | Global Geopolitics: Insights and Future Outlook
Hon. Alexander Downer will provide an in-depth analysis of the current geopolitical landscape and its future implications. His discussion will cover the impacts of international conflicts, regional power shifts, and strategic alliances. He will address the economic opportunities and challenges for New Zealand and the wider Asia-Pacific region, including the significance of trade agreements. He will also explore global trends such as inflation, trade disruptions, and their effects on economic stability. This talk promises valuable insights into navigating the complexities of an interconnected world.
Carmen Vicelich is an entrepreneurial powerhouse with over 20 years’ experience developing innovative solutions using technology and data to deliver impact. In record time she has created multiple, global industry-leading businesses that do just that.
Valocity empowers people around the planet with property and has revolutionised the valuation process, by digitally connecting lenders, valuers, brokers, and customers in One Smart Platform, to streamline the property decisioning process in over 2100 cities around the world
In parallel to Valocity, Carmen developed, Data Insight, which helps Australasia’s largest businesses and government organisations leverage the power of data, AI and advanced analytics, enabling data driven decision making, actionable insights and foresight.
Her latest business, GenerateZero leverages AI and ML enabling organisations to capture, measure, monitor and reduce their carbon emissions to accelerate their sustainability goals. The innovative platform measures financial emissions and scope 1, 2 and 3 and is used by lenders, insurance and government.
Outside of founding three data and technology businesses, Carmen mentors several students and founders and is a regular global and celebrity speaker sharing her story of innovation.
Carmen serves on several boards including UNICEF (United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund) supporting child rights, Co-Chair of Fintech NZ, and on the New Zealand India Trade Alliance board. She is also a proud mother of four children.
12:35pm, Friday 13 September
The Evolving Landscape of Work
In this enlightening session, Carmen Vicelich provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of work. As we embrace technological advancements and adapt to changing dynamics, Carmen will explore the future of work, offering strategies for individuals and organisations to thrive in a rapidly shifting environment. From remote work trends to the gig economy, she examines emerging paradigms and their implications for the workforce. Join us as we explore the opportunities and challenges shaping the way we work in the years to come.
Hon Nicola Willis
Minister of Finance, Minister for the Public Service, Minister for Social Investment and Associate Minister of Climate Change
Biography
Nicola Willis is the Minister of Finance, Minister for the Public Service, Minister for Social Investment and Associate Minister of Climate Change.
Prior to becoming an MP, Nicola held a number of senior management roles at New Zealand dairy co-operative Fonterra. She also served on the boards of Export NZ and policy think-tank the New Zealand Initiative.
Nicola was a senior advisor to Prime Minister John Key during his first term in Government, having previously worked for the National Party in Opposition.
Nicola is a graduate of Victoria University of Wellington with a first-class Honours degree in English literature. She grew up in Wellington, and today she lives there with her husband Duncan and their four children.
9:20am, Thursday 12 September
Government Address
Join Hon Nicola Willis as she provides a government update.
Biography
Sam Stubbs is the co-founder of Simplicity, one of NZ’s fastest growing KiwiSaver plans. Simplicity is a nonprofit KiwiSaver and Fund Manager that gives 15% of all fees to charity and invests with a conscience.
Sam was previously CEO of Tower Investments. He was MD of Hanover Group and worked for Goldman Sachs in London and Hong Kong. He has also worked for NatWest Markets, Fay, Richwhite and IBM.
Sam has an MA (Hons) in Politics from the University of Auckland.
Sam is a father of four children, and has no time for any hobbies! He dreams of Simplicity and sailing around the world.
11:55am, Friday 13 September
Case Study | Innovative Strategies for Residential Development
Shane Brealey and Sam Stubbs lead an enlightening session on achieving more with less in residential development. Delving into innovative strategies and streamlined approaches, they explore how to optimise resources while delivering high-quality projects. From leveraging technology to embracing sustainable practices, Shane & Sam will share insights on maximising efficiency without compromising on excellence. This session offers practical advice and actionable solutions for those looking to enhance productivity and sustainability in residential development. Join us as we uncover opportunities to do more with less, shaping the future of housing with ingenuity and resourcefulness.
Biography
As Group Chief Executive, Amelia is accountable for the business operations of the Beca group, leading delivery of our global strategic objectives. She has a distinguished track record in option evaluation, planning, consultation and driving sustainability outcomes. She has extensive experience in Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific and beyond, across a wide variety of sectors spanning 25 years.
A geographer by training, she has a focus on systems thinking and has had roles with NZ Government and infrastructure clients on project and advisory boards. She has also been involved in policy development.
Amelia has been part of a wide range of planning and infrastructure work across New Zealand and the Pacific. Her project experience is largely associated with major transport infrastructure, utility services and social infrastructure.
Amelia is passionate about the role that Beca can play to make every day better for the communities of tomorrow, environmentally, socially and culturally.
11:30am, Thursday 12 September
A View From the Top
The panel aims to bring together visionary leaders from the property industry to discuss the challenges, opportunities and strategies for driving innovation and leading successful organisations in a rapidly evolving market.
Biography
David is Managing Director (Development) for Willis Bond, a leading New Zealand property development and investment company that creates high-quality mixed-use communities in urban environments. David is involved in all aspects of the business but focuses predominantly on the business’s development projects.
Examples of major projects David has delivered include the award-winning $160 million Clyde Quay Wharf and $89 million PwC Centre developments in Wellington, the $150 million Catalina Bay Apartment projects in Auckland, and Wellington’s first base-isolated apartment building, the $83 million Victoria Lane Apartments.
David is also a Director of Compassion Housing Limited, and is involved in social housing, including a partnership between Willis Bond and the Home of Compassion.
Before joining Willis Bond in 2005, David spent 10 years working in corporate and commercial law and he holds degrees in Law and Accounting from Otago University, as well as a post graduate certificate in Corporate Finance.
12:15pm, Thursday 12 September
Case Study: Tākina Wellington Convention & Exhibition Centre
Join David McGuinness from Willis Bond as he presents an in-depth case study on Tākina, Wellington’s new Convention and Exhibition Centre. This session will explore the project’s conception, design, and execution, highlighting key challenges and innovative solutions. He will delve into the project’s impact on Wellington’s economy and urban landscape, emphasising sustainable development and community engagement. Attendees will gain insights into how Tākina enhances the city’s appeal as a premier destination for events and exhibitions. This case study offers valuable lessons for urban development and strategic project management in the property sector.
Biography
Jess Stuart is an international speaker, coach and author of 7 personal development books specialising in mindset, performance and leadership. A senior leader with a background in Human Resources roles and a decade working in people development, businesses find Jess can speak their language.
A brush with burnout in her corporate career led Jess across the world to train with Buddhist monks and nuns. A decade later, after writing 7 books and running her own successful business she shares what she knows about mind-set, resilience and self-belief to empower people to unlock their potential.
Highly acclaimed event speaker and proud member of the rainbow community. Featured on TV3, BBC, RNZ, Dominion Post, Stuff and NZ Business Magazine. Described as inspiring, articulate and relatable by audiences. Jess has a passion for sharing her knowledge and motivating others with her words.
4:20pm, Thursday 12 September
Keynote | Burnout to Brilliance
Jess Stuart, International speaker, Coach and Author leads an empowering session on navigating from burnout to peak performance. Drawing from her expertise, she shares strategies for overcoming burnout and unlocking your full potential. Through practical insights and actionable advice, Jess will guide attendees on a journey towards brilliance in both personal and professional realms. This transformative session delves into techniques for managing stress, fostering resilience, and optimising productivity. Whether you’re seeking to reignite your passion or elevate your performance, this session promises to inspire and empower you to achieve your highest aspirations.
Kerin Russell-Smith
Director
Russell Group
Biography
Kerin serves as an executive director on the Russell Group Board. Kerin has 30 years domestic and international experience in finance, construction and property. Kerin provides support in the areas of Strategy, Finance, Compliance, Human Resources and Property and Investment.
Kerin is a chartered accountant and has been around construction related activities all her life – The Russell Group, originated with her parent’s bricklaying company in the 1960s & today, is still family-owned employing more than 1300 people in a variety of construction, property & hospitality industry entities.
Whilst the group was originally focussed in the construction sector, the Group now has property holdings across the commercial, industrial and residential sectors as well as 7 major hotels and Formosa Golf Resort in partnership with NZ Super Fund.
In addition, Kerin is on the Board of Trustees of the Keystone Trust and Auckland Grammar School and is a founding member of Family Business NZ.
11:25am, Friday 13 September
Adaptive Reuse: Thinking Outside the Box
Join Kerin Russell-Smith, Director, Russell Group as she discusses the strategies and challenges encountered in repurposing spaces to cater to evolving needs. Recognising the large environmental footprint that building from scratch entails and the inherent embodied carbon in existing buildings, Russell Group has been strongly focused on reuse/re-purpose and seismic strengthening opportunities. With a strong track record in re-purposing and strenghtening many tired, redundant buildings into thriving, commercially successful and more sustainable developments, Kerin will share insights of their journey to date.
Biography
Todd Lauchlan joined JLL New Zealand in 1995 as a Leasing Agent for the Wellington office.
Since then, he has progressed through the ranks around the world to take on managing roles in cities like London, Mumbai, Beijing, and Jakarta. During his most recent previous role as an International Director and Country Head for JLL Indonesia, the Indonesian business grew in excess of 800% with its headcount surging from 75 to more than 600 people.
In 2018, Todd took on the role of Managing Director for JLL New Zealand to bring his family back home with the intention to further develop and grow the business.
Since Todd took the reins, JLL New Zealand has progressed in a number of key areas. The culture of the business across the three offices in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch has gone from strength to strength following the introduction of a shared purpose and behaviours, tenets by which the team operate by to be collaborative and innovative. The formation of the Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI) committee, and subsequent launch of a DEI strategy, sets a clear roadmap for creating a safe and welcoming working environment for all people. Todd has championed this cause since its inception and plays an active role in promoting the initiatives that come from the DEI committee.
11:30am, Thursday 12 September
A View From the Top
The panel aims to bring together visionary leaders from the property industry to discuss the challenges, opportunities and strategies for driving innovation and leading successful organisations in a rapidly evolving market.
Biography
Tony Alexander was Chief Economist at the BNZ for almost 25 years and has been out on his own as an independent economist since late-2019. He distributes the free weekly “Tony’s View” publication to over 25,000 subscribers each week, writes a weekly column for OneRoof, has a weekly video blog, and speaks at about 80 functions a year around New Zealand. He also runs six monthly surveys which give coalface insight into what is happening in NZ industry and the housing market in particular.
11:05am, Thursday 12 September
An Economic Forecast
Tony Alexander will address key global and Australasian economic issues in the post-COVID era, focusing on recession impacts and future prospects. He will provide insights into current economic conditions and forecasts for the next 6-12 months, particularly in the property sector. He will discuss the crucial role of tourism, the impact of limited immigration on the economy, and predictions for mortgage rates and inflation.
Biography
Chris has been a Chartered Quantity Surveyor for 24 years and he has been a Director and owner of Rider Levett Bucknall in Auckland and the Otago region for 12 years.
His track record covers numerous sectors. On the commercial side, he has delivered successful projects for Kiwi Property, Precinct Properties, Willis Bond, Auckland Airport and Oyster. He has worked on significant education projects over the years for the University of Auckland, University of Waikato, Massey University, University of Otago and the Ministry of Education. He is currently delivering the new MPI PHEC facility in Auckland and the Te Manawataki o Te Papa Civic Precinct in Tauranga. Chris produces the bi-annual RLB Crane Index™ in New Zealand, provides training for RLB in Australasia and is regular construction market commentator. He has 3 boys and little spare time.
2:15pm, Thursday 12 September
Panel | Innovating Construction for a Sustainable Future
Join our panellists for a dynamic discussion on maximising efficiency in construction and embracing innovation in delivery methods. We’ll explore how constraints can drive creativity and lead to groundbreaking solutions. The panel will delve into New Zealand’s internal capabilities and emerging product supply businesses, highlighting opportunities for growth. Our expert panel will share insights on the fundamentals of impactful design work and achieving sustainability credentials. This solutions-focused dialogue aims to inspire smarter thinking in construction, emphasizing the importance of doing more with less for a resilient and sustainable built environment.
Mea Motu is not just a formidable force in the boxing ring, she is a symbol of resilience, courage and triumph. Mea has etched her name in history as the IBO world super Bantamweight champion.
In Pukepoto Te Tai Tokerau, Mea’s interest in boxing started at just 13 years old and has grown into a very impressive boxing career with 18-0 with 6K0s. Then in April 2023, at the age of 33 and a proud mother of five, Mea firmly secured her place in history as the IBO world super Bantamweight champion. Mea has gone on to successfully defended the title twice. However, Her ascent to becoming a world champion has not been without its challenges
Mea is a domestic abuse survivor, where she literally fought for her life for many years. The story of what she’s been through, how she found the courage and strength to fight through it, and coming out the other side to become a World Champion is incredibly powerful. She credits boxing and her gym with saving her life.
In addition to her achievements in the ring, Mea has embraced a role as a beacon of hope for those grappling with mental health challenges. As an ambassador for “I Am Hope,” she passionately advocates for the well-being of tamariki and rangatahi, sharing her inspirational journey of courage and hope. Mea openly speaks about her truth and how she has risen to overcome the difficulties and dark parts of her life in the hope to inspire and uplift others.
9:00am, Friday 13 September
Keynote | Beyond the Ring: Triumph, Resilience, and the Power Within
Mea shares her empowering journey from survivor to world champion, transcending the boxing ring’s confines. Overcoming domestic abuse, she exemplifies the resilience of the human spirit. Her story ignites hope, showing that even in darkness, one can find the strength to rise and triumph. Mea’s resilience inspires belief in inner strength and the power of personal narratives. Mea’s life teaches that true victory lies in rising after each fall, refusing to be defined by the past.
