Electrify Queenstown 2025: Community Evening Sessions
Join us for an inspiring evening of kōrero, ideas, and practical solutions at the Electrify Queenstown Community Evening Sessions — a free public event designed to spark meaningful conversations about how we can power a cleaner, more resilient future together. This evening is for everyone — homeowners, renters, business owners, students, and curious minds. Whether you’re already on your electrification journey or just want to know where to start, come along and be part of the conversation.
When: Tuesday, 27 May, 6pm - 8pm
Where: Queenstown Events Centre, Joe Oconnell Drive, Frankton
Register for free: electrifyqueenstown.co.nz
What to expect:
The sessions are facilitated by Ben Fahy – Head of Comms at Rewiring Aotearoa, Partnerships Manager at NZ Geographic, and Freelance Journalist for Kia Ora magazine.
The Energy Transition: Dr Rebecca Peer, academic at the University of Canterbury, will unpack the big-picture shifts driving change in Aotearoa’s energy system — and what they mean for you.
Local Energy Resilience and Emergency Preparedness:
This talk relates to strengthening our home and communities to stay connected and safe during major disruptions. It’s being held by Bill Nichol, Resilience & Climate Action Manager at QLDC and Craig Gibson, Emergency Management Advisor Queenstown at Emergency Management Otago.
How to Electrify Your Home: Jay Salzke, Ecosystem Lead at Rewiring Aotearoa, will share simple, practical steps to reduce your home’s emissions, lower your bills, and future-proof your lifestyle.
Panel and Q&A: Electrification and Community Resilience
Hear from a diverse panel of experts as they discuss how electrification can strengthen our communities and economy:
- Mike Casey – Owner of Electric Cherries and electrified his business and house
- Josh Ellison – R&D Lead, Rewiring Aotearoa
- Dr Rebecca Peer – University of Canterbury
- Briony Bennett – Senior Energy Innovation Manager, Ara Ake
