Electrify Queenstown returns
Queenstown businesses and households are invited to explore practical ways to save money, become more energy efficient, and decarbonise with the return of Electrify Queenstown in May.
Building on the success of last year’s inaugural event, Destination Queenstown, with support from Queenstown Business Chamber of Commerce, will present a three-day programme designed to innovate and inspire change in the Queenstown Lakes.
With principal sponsor Aurora Energy onboard for the second year, Electrify Queenstown promises to deliver an electric experience for the Queenstown community.
Mat Woods, Destination Queenstown Chief Executive, says this year’s expanded programme caters to tourism operators, business owners, homeowners and anyone curious about making the switch to enable fully electric heating, cooking and transport.
“Electrify Queenstown will share ideas and innovations to support businesses and households to electrify, save money and decarbonise. We’re excited about the win-win potential of electrification in supporting a vibrant, growing economy while protecting the environment for future generations,” he said.
The opening day on Monday, 26 May, will take stage at Skyline Queenstown, a trailblazer in tourism innovation and electrification.
Queenstown Lakes District Mayor, Glyn Lewers, will open with a welcome address followed by keynote speaker Saul Griffith — globally acclaimed author and entrepreneur sharing insights on why we must electrify and switch to renewable technology. An inspirational line up of speakers includes industry experts, policy makers and innovators who will present both the challenges and the vast potential of electrification from an economic, environmental and social perspective.
Sharon Fifield, Queenstown Business Chamber Chief Executive, says: “It’s important, in what has recently been a tough economic climate, that any changes made in your business don't sacrifice your bottom line.
"We’re thrilled to have experts joining Electrify Queenstown to share the benefits and opportunities that come with electrifying a business including cost savings, improved productivity, and emissions reductions.”
On the second day, a full programme at the Queenstown Events Centre will spark conversations about the opportunities for businesses and households with electrification, and innovations in electric transport. A tradeshow exhibition will display new technology, low rate loans and exclusive deals, plus the opportunity to join interactive workshops led by experts in electrification and renewable energy. The community evening session from 6pm will focus on the energy transition, how to electrify your home and the role of electrification in community resilience.
The third and final day will involve immersive electric experiences, sharing the very best in tourism innovation and technology, from local operators and global leaders.
Lines company Aurora Energy is proud to once again be the principal sponsor of the Electrify Queenstown event.
Richard Fletcher, Aurora Energy Chief Executive, says: “The growth of this event from one day to three days highlights the increasing demand and interest in electrification within our region. Aurora Energy is committed to ensuring that our network is ready to enable the future electricity and technology choices of consumers.
"In supporting events such as these we hope we can play a part helping local businesses and communities be informed about the benefits of electricity, whether it is supplied from the national grid or generated and stored locally. We look forward to meeting with those attending, and discussing how we can work together towards a sustainable, efficient, and resilient future."
Electrify Queenstown will take place over three days from 26 – 28 May 2025. Registrations are open for individual sessions, a day pass, or for the full three-day event.
For more information visit: electrifyqueenstown.co.nz
Electrify Queenstown programme summary
Monday, 26 May: Setting the stage for electrification (Skyline Queenstown)
Tuesday, 27 May: Electrification in action (Queenstown Events Centre)
Wednesday, 28 May: Electric experiences (Details coming soon)
