Jackson is a commercial thinker and connector who is passionate about helping and supporting our businesses grow across the greater region. With a strong leadership and financial services background, and a founder of a Fintech company himself.
Born in the Horowhenua with connections to Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga and the Pasifika community (Tonga). Jackson has over decade of experience leading people in Banking and Technology. Jackson is passionate about ensuring businesses across the region feel well connected and supported to grow.
A self-described ‘generalist’ with a passion to bring a Te Ao Māori lens to supporting businesses in the region, Michelle’s focus is on Māori.
Born in Oamaru with connections to Ngaī Tūhoe, Michelle has been involved in startup technology businesses and public sector work focused on governance and all-of-system reviews. Michelle places emphasis on bringing her authentic self and lived experience to understand how best to support pakihi by connecting them to the wider ecosystem.
With a strong business development background, Clare is a visionary thinker who is passionate about helping and supporting startups and entrepreneur businesses.
She sees herself as an enabler and a facilitator, continuously learning about new products and knowledge to help increase capability for businesses so they can advance their vision and build their capabilities.
Liezl is a people-focused professional who enjoys supporting and connecting with businesses across Wellington. She draws on her experience to help guide Wellington businesses as they grow and succeed.
Before joining WellingtonNZ, Liezl spent 18 years working in finance and accounting across a range of industries in New Zealand and South Africa. Her background in accounting and business management provides a strong foundation to support business growth.
Anika supports through the Regional Business Partner Network and the Māori Business Support team. She helps businesses build the knowledge, tools, and confidence they need to grow.
Anika is grounded in her Ngāti Maniapoto and brings experience in Māori business, research, and project coordination. Her approach is guided by and a strong passion for positive outcomes for pakihi and their communities, now and into the future.
Born and bred in Wellington, Nik has years of experience in owning, running and working alongside a number of ventures around the region.
Nik is enthusiastic about helping local businesses successfully navigate their way through difficult periods and ensuring they have the tools they need to thrive in Wellington.
Shamanthi is passionate about engaging in work that is purpose-driven. She works with the team to ensure the right processes are in place to deliver impactful projects.
With a background in marketing, Shamanthi brings an audience-first approach to problem-solving, helping achieve meaningful outcomes for businesses across the region.
As a regional economic development agency, we seek to support a thriving regional economy for all. Part of this is ensuring there is equitable access to the system through procurement opportunities.
Wellington is more than just a capital city. It’s a region where business and pleasure go hand in hand. Whether you are in the creative, tech, or public sector, you will find a network of supportive and collaborative people to work with. And when you need a break, you will be spoilt for choice with the region’s options to step away from the office.
The Regional Business Partner Network helps to connect small to medium-sized businesses to the right advice, people and resources.
This video series from Wellington businesses shares tips on how to find, hire and retain skilled people.
Whether you’re just getting started in business or you’re up and running, the support of a business mentor can be invaluable. WellingtonNZ can connect you with people who can offer guidance and support and share their experiences.
Getting a student or graduate can benefit your business. Workplace pathways connect Wellington businesses with students in a variety of ways.
At WellingtonNZ, our business growth and innovation team helps businesses find the advice and resources they need to grow and succeed.
WellingtonNZ can help your business if you’re thinking about developing new products or services. We can also help if you have an ongoing R&D programme and need some support.