Wednesday 5th November, 7:00am – 9:30am
Trade on Toast – 2025 Breakfast Event Series
Join us for a plated breakfast and an open discussion on Auckland’s infrastructure challenges. From gridlocked roads and ageing systems to rising energy and housing pressures, the city’s foundations are struggling to keep pace.
We’re pleased to welcome Sam Stubbs, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Simplicity, as our keynote speaker. He’ll share a candid view on how long-term thinking and smart investment can drive Auckland’s much-needed transformation.
We’ll then hear from a panel of senior leaders who are shaping the future of our city:
- Fraser Whineray – Director, Port of Tauranga
- Jamie Sinclair – Chief Executive, Watercare Services
- Rupert Hodson – Executive Director, Committee for Auckland
- Stacey van der Putten – Director of Public Transport & Active Modes, Auckland Transport
Expect a straight-talking, solutions-focused discussion on the decisions and investments needed to future-proof Auckland — and what role the business community can play.
As always, the session will include an open Q&A, giving attendees the chance to put their questions directly to our speakers.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation shaping Auckland’s future.
Event Details
Date: Wednesday 5th November 2025
Time: 7:00am – 9:30am
Location: Pullman, Auckland
Agenda
7:00am – 7:20am: 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
Roger Gray, CEO of Port of Auckland, is a seasoned business leader with a proven track record in growth and profitability.
He leads the port’s world-class operations, including container handling, marine services, and supply chain management.
Roger shares his expertise in business leadership and trade. Attendees will gain valuable insights from his global experience and strategic vision.
Keynote Speaker
Sam Stubbs
Co – Founder, Simplicity
Simplicity is 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.
Sam has an MA (Hons) in Politics from the University of Auckland.
Panellist
Fraser Whineray
Independent Non-Executive Director
Offering deep experience across operations, energy, agriculture, infrastructure, and financial sectors. He was Chief Operating Officer at Fonterra from 2020 to 2023 and Chief Executive of Mercury NZ from 2014 to 2020.
Fraser now serves as an Independent Non-Executive Director for Port of Tauranga, Waste Management NZ, Quayside Holdings, and AgriZero NZ.
Panellist
Jamie Sinclair
Chief Executive, Watercare Services Limited
Leading Auckland’s water and wastewater utility through a major transformation towards financial independence and regulation. A chartered accountant with more than 20 years’ experience.
Jamie previously served as Watercare’s Deputy Chief Executive and Chief Corporate Services Officer.
Panellist
Rupert Hodson
Executive Director, Committee for Auckland
A city planning professional with 27 years of experience, including work on the Northern Busway, Eden Park redevelopment, and Auckland Council’s Regional Deal Leadership Group. He leads Beca’s Northern Regional team of 1,400 and is currently Executive Director (seconded) at the Committee for Auckland, also serving on the Infrastructure NZ Advisory Council.
Panellist
Stacey van der Putten
Director of Public Transport & Active Modes, Auckland Transport
Overseeing the city’s public transport and active mode networks. With prior roles as EGM Safety and Metro Services lead, she has been instrumental in developing Auckland’s multi-modal transport system.
Stacey is dedicated to creating a safe, accessible, and resilient network and serves as Chair of the ARA Committee, TrackSafe Trustee, and PTAANZ Board Director.
