Roger Gray is the CEO of Port of Auckland and an experienced business leader with a strong track record in growth and operational performance. He leads the port’s operations and brings extensive experience in trade, logistics, and business leadership.
Wednesday 20th May, 7am – 9am
Trade on Toast – 2026 Breakfast Event Series
Join us for the first Trade on Toast event of 2026 as we explore one of the biggest questions facing New Zealand’s economy: where will our next wave of growth come from?
With economic conditions shifting and businesses navigating ongoing uncertainty, this session will examine what an “economic reset” could look like for New Zealand and Auckland. We’ll discuss the sectors and opportunities most likely to drive future growth, the challenges holding productivity back, and what business and government can do to support a stronger, more resilient economy.
We’re pleased to welcome Brad Olsen, Chief Executive and Principal Economist at Infometrics, as our keynote speaker, alongside a panel of senior industry leaders:
Ian Proudfoot – Global Head of Agribusiness and Partner – Audit, KPMG
Lisa Hopkins – Chief Executive, Business Events Industry Aotearoa
Mat Rowe – Co-Founder and Executive Director, Outset Ventures
They will share their perspectives on where the next opportunities for growth lie and the role of innovation, trade, and key sectors in shaping New Zealand’s economic future.
This breakfast session will feature a thought-provoking discussion on the forces shaping our economic outlook, with practical insights for business leaders planning for the year ahead. As always, there will be an opportunity for audience Q&A.
Event Details
Date: Wednesday 20th May 2026
Time: 7:00am – 9:00am
Location: Pullman, Auckland
Your ticket includes a hot plated breakfast, served during the session.
Agenda
7:00am – 7:30am: Registration
7:30am: Seated for main event
Panel Discussion followed by a Q&A session
Brought to you by
Sponsor Address
Roger Gray
CEO, Port of Auckland
Keynote Speaker
Brad Olsen
Chief Executive & Principal Economist, Infometrics
Brad Olsen is the Chief Executive and Principal Economist at Infometrics and one of New Zealand’s most recognised economic commentators. He specialises in regional economic development, labour markets, infrastructure, and public policy, and is known for his clear, engaging insights on the forces shaping New Zealand’s economy.
Panellist
Ian Proudfoot
Global Head of Agribusiness, Partner – Audit, KPMG
Ian Proudfoot is the Global Head of Agribusiness and a Partner in Audit at KPMG New Zealand. He works with clients across the global food system on the future of food and has led the KPMG Agribusiness Agenda since 2010. Ian also advises on New Zealand’s food and fibre sector through various ministerial groups and leads KPMG’s ESG Assurance business in New Zealand.
Panellist
Lisa Hopkins
Chief Executive, Business Events Industry Aotearoa
Lisa Hopkins is the Chief Executive of Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) and a leader in New Zealand’s business events sector. She also serves on the PCMA APAC Regional Advisory Board for the 2025–2027 term and plays a key role in advancing New Zealand’s Pīata Mai business events strategy.
Panellist
Mat Rowe
Co-Founder & Executive Director, Outset
Mat Rowe is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Outset Ventures, New Zealand’s leading deep-tech incubator and investment platform behind companies including Rocket Lab. He has over 25 years’ experience turning innovative technologies into scalable companies.
