News

Sponsors line up powers 2024 Murihiku Regeneration Energy and innovation Wānanga to success

A powerful line up of over 30 sponsors have helped make the 2024 Murihiku Regeneration Energy and Innovation Wānanga a huge success.

The two day regenerative event focused on energy, oceans and innovation opportunities for Murihiku-Southland communities and for New Zealand. It was supported by an impressive range a fantastic line up of sponsors that included international and national businesses, developers, Iwi, research and science organisations and regional and local organisations looking to demonstrate their support for the event and the possibilities it has created.

(From left to right) Boris Novak, Mr David Gehrenbeck, HE Mr Makoto Osawa, HE Nicole Menzenbach, HE Lawrence Meredith and Dominic Bowden

“We are privileged to have such committed sponsors, representing a huge range of sectors from all over the world to here in Southland”.

“We would like to particularly like to thank global energy company, Woodside Energy as our premier sponsor. Their commitment to our relationship has been unwavering.”

“We would also like to mention Westpac Bank, Rio Tinto, Contact Energy and Awarua Rūnaka, Oraka Aparima Rūnaka and Hokonui Rūnanga for their crucial support to this event and what it can deliver for our communities,”

“Also the support from Ngai Tahu and Waikato Tainui leaders, who demonstrated the value and cohesion that iwi bring to the regional development and economic productivity conversations,” says Terry Nicholas Portfolio Director for Murihiku Regeneration.

Significant project opportunities for the region were shared and a number of new initiatives identified by speakers at the two day event.

Posted: 6 December 2024

Towards 2030- Murihiku Regeneration releases ambitious Regional Energy Action Plan

Today, Murihiku Regeneration has released its ambitious “Towards 2030” Energy Transitions Action Plan.

The Energy Action Plan has been developed over the last 12 months, and gone through consultation, engagement, and feedback, to provide an action plan that will support the identified key priorities needed through the energy transition by 2030. The work was completed as a part of the previous government’s Just Transitions Programme through the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and employment.

The action plan focuses on the following goals:

• 100% renewable energy generation within the takiwā, as a net exporter of energy (through the effective use of electrons).

• The targeted decarbonisation of two key sectors, heavy transport (land and marine) and process heat.

• Murihiku-Southland as one of New Zealand’s largest producers of green hydrogen.

• Rakiura well on a path to becoming net zero.

• Accelerating uptake through Regional Aviation and Heavy Transport – as the first region to achieve electric aviation and then being ready for hydrogen fuelled aircraft. Also setting up a viable carbon reducing refuelling network (hydrogen and electric) for heavy transport.

• Building an effective net zero workforce - the creation of new trades and professional jobs in science, technology, engineering, environmental management and planning, and adjacent sectors.

The release of the plan follows in the footsteps of the recent Regeneration Energy, Oceans, and Innovation Wānanga (Summit) where the key priorities, actions, and opportunities in the report were shared with participants. The Wānanga was held 26-27 November and included talks from both the energy Ministers – Hon Simeon Brown and Hon Shane Jones. Keynote discussions and panels included speakers from the energy industry, regulators and network company leaders, and a large contingent of local and international developers and industrial users.

“It is vital that we turn our minds to the ‘how’ and the ‘what’ we are going to do. 2030 is just around the corner and we really need to get on with it, “ says Terry Nicholas, Portfolio and Energy Director for Murihiku Regeneration.

“ Green hydrogen must play a role in our energy future. If it isn’t hydrogen then tell me what it is,” says Ta Tipene O’Regan, from the Office of Upoko within Murihiku Regeneration.

“Furthermore, we must look at all forms of energy -that includes new hydro, onshore and offshore wind, and of course wave and tidal energy options. All of these are readily available to develop”, says Ta Tipene.

The Action Plan has been shared with key stakeholders, partners and is available on the Regeneration website.

“we are less focused on the words of that document, and more on the actions that will come from it. We have already instigated key actions in a number of areas of the plan, and wish for the coalition of the willing to work with us on progressing further,” says Mike Shatford, the Murihiku Regeneration Energy Transitions Programme manager.”

“At our next Wānanga, in 2025 we will update on actions and progress,” says Nicholas.

Posted: 6 December 2024

Kia Tū Transforming Lives - Jake’s Story

Jake Durry, 25, has always been someone who took on whatever job was available, from farming to working in the meat industry, including roles in boning, saw operating, and butcheries.The Kia Tū Trade Training Programme has given Jake a new perspective on life - and most importantly, given him self-belief.

After leaving school without a clear direction, he found himself moving from one job to another, never quite sure of where he was headed. That all changed when he decided to join the Kia Tū Trade Training Pathway Programme.

“I didn’t know what I wanted to do,” Jake says, reflecting on his earlier years. “I just did whatever job I could get. But when I heard about Kia Tū through my MSD case manager, I thought it sounded like a great opportunity. I wanted to learn about different trades and get a feel for what might be right for me.”

Confidence and a new perspective

The Kia Tū Trade Training Pathway Programme has provided Jake with more than just technical skills — it’s given him confidence and a new perspective on his future. Through the course, he gained valuable skills in job interviews, CV writing, and cover letter techniques. But perhaps the most transformative lesson was about self-belief. “I learned that when you’re truly interested in something, learning comes easily,” Jake shares. “Before the course, I didn’t ask many questions because I was worried about sounding silly, but now I know there’s no such thing as a bad question. I feel way more confident asking and engaging.”

Anamata Māia staff ensure success

The support Jake received throughout the programme played a pivotal role in his growth. “The Anamata Māia staff were incredibly supportive, sharing their personal experiences and life skills, which really helped me find my path,” he says. He also mentions how practice job interviews, tailored feedback, and career guidance from Shaun at Anamata Māia set him up for success in securing a new job. “Shaun set up an interview for me, and within a week, I had the job. It was such a huge step forward.”

By the end of the programme, Jake had not only gained clarity on his career path but also learned how to create a detailed, actionable plan to reach his goals. He’s now confident in his ability to plan his future and tackle new challenges head-on.

“Before the programme, I didn’t think I’d go far in life, but now I know I can achieve the main things I want,” Jake says. “I’m excited about where I’ll be in five years. The opportunity to be part of Kia Tū has really changed my outlook on life.”

Take the opportunity!

Jake’s advice to anyone considering the Kia Tū Programme? “Take the opportunity—100%. You’ll learn so much that you wouldn’t even think of. The bonds you build and the support you get are incredible. It’s an environment where everyone is willing to see you succeed, and you can’t pass that up.”

Since completing the course, Jake has already seen significant personal development. “I’m way more confident, driven, and focused on taking control of my life and achieving success,” he says. With his newfound drive and clarity, Jake is well on his way to achieving his goals and building the future he once thought was out of reach.

Thanks to our sponsors

Posted: 5 December 2024

FLOWT Wellbeing and mental health project unveiled at 2024 Murihiku Regeneration Wānanga

FLOWT is an innovative mental health and wellbeing project looking to open its first facility in Queenstown in Autumn 2025. The project was unveiled at the 2024 Murihiku Regeneration Energy, Oceans and Innovation Wānanga on Wednesday 27th November in Invercargill New Zealand.

The project idea was first shared by Ngāi Tahu Leader and innovator Rod Drury at the 2023 Murihiku Regeneration Energy and Innovation Wānanga. Project Lead -Dominic Bowden then gave a project update at the 2024 event on plans for activation and implementation.

The project is supported by Ta Tipene O’Regan and Terry Nicholas through Murihiku Regeneration as a regional development and social wellbeing initiative.

“We see this project and what FLOWT is wanting to achieve as being fully aligned with our values and approach”, says Ta Tipene O’Regan

“Dominic Bowden presented and shared this project early on and has consulted us and taken feedback from us at every stage of its development”, says Terry Nicholas, Upoko of Hokonui Rūnanga and Portfolio Director for Murihiku Regeneration.

“Lake Wakatipu’s year-round cool temperatures are ideal for contrast therapy. FLOWT aims to bring people together, focusing on community, self-care, and celebrating the incredible mental and physical benefits of contrast therapy,” says Bowden.

In recent years, Bowden has stepped away from the television spotlight to focus on developing WellBeings, a digital community exploring the science of feeling good. Through his WellBeings podcast series, he aims to raise awareness about essential elements often overlooked in our digitally obsessed world. He now works collaboratively with the Murihiku Regeneration team.

With 20 years of media experience across the USA, Australia, and New Zealand, Dominic has collaborated with influential figures such as iceman Wim Hof, Andrew Huberman, and bestselling author James Clear, known for *Atomic Habits*.

“What I hope sets us apart is our focus on community. We aim to create a place where people can gather and enjoy a fun, restorative experience—especially after the thrill-seeking adventures Queenstown is famous for,” says Bowden. “Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in the city or a healthy new way to meet up with friends, I am honoured to be part of bringing FLOWT to the region.”

FLOWT is targeted to open in Autumn 2025. https://flowtsauna.com/

Posted: 29 November 2024

2024 Regeneration Wānanga – Forming the Regenerative Scrum

Speakers and attendees at the Murihiku Regeneration Wānanga have reflected on Day 1 of the two day event focused on energy, oceans, and innovation opportunities for the region.

MC Dominic Bowden reflected back to the 200 strong audience the opportunity to channel frustration, using collaboration and partnerships to overcome these challenges and really focus in on what will make a difference locally and regionally, and also how it will support New Zealand in growing its economy.

Ngāi Tahu leaders Terry Nicholas (Hokonui) and Barry Bragg (Awarua) set the challenge to form the regenerative scrum to drive opportunity based around collaboration, partnerships, and respect.

Terry said, “We have a once in a life time opportunity to form the coalition of the willing, based around capability and wanting to ensure that participants stay in their lane of expertise”.

Barry Bragg confirmed that “We are open for business, are looking for ways to support the community and drive projects which support whanau, iwi, and the whole community”.

Both agreed it was a once in a lifetime opportunity that needs to be taken up for future generations.

Posted: 27 November 2024