Mr English is a former independent advisor to the Reserve Bank of New Zealand and a former CEO of Federated Farmers New Zealand. He brings with him in depth experience across government and parliamentary relations, policy, agriculture, exporting, investment, technology, and smart cities and says this is a unique opportunity for the fast-growing Otago Central Lakes Region.

“The Regional Deal is about leveraging the value created by growth, higher visitor numbers, and other potential sources of income, to enable key infrastructure investment that supports the community and visitors alike,” says Gretchen Robertson, Chair of the Otago Central Lakes Regional Deal Negotiation Committee.

“Mr English’s expertise will help us make the most of this opportunity and ensure we balance our growing infrastructure needs while maintaining the high-quality natural environment that we all value. We are really pleased to have Conor on board.”

The Otago Central Lakes Regional Deal is a growth and infrastructure partnership between Queenstown Lakes District Council, Central Otago District Council, Otago Regional Council, and the Government, and will help address some of the region’s current challenges. It is based on a 30-year vision and 10-year strategy.