Welcome to the Whakatāne Business Hui
Monday, 18 August 2025 | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Liberty CentreHosted by MC: Ben Hurley
Kia ora Whakatāne,
Welcome to the inaugural Whakatāne Business Hui — a half-day event designed to energise, connect, and empower our local business community.
This hui is about more than networking. It’s about ideas. It’s about impact. And most of all, it’s about people.
We’re here to share stories of resilience, innovation, and leadership from across the Eastern Bay of Plenty and beyond. Whether you’re a founder, employer, advisor, or emerging leader, this is your opportunity to learn, contribute, and connect with others navigating the same path.
A Cause Worth Turning Up For
All ticket sales from this event are being donated to the Business Spread Trust, which supports the mental health and wellbeing of business owners across the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Too often, business is lonely — and this trust exists to offer support where it's most needed.
This event is powered by Calc Business Advisors & Chartered Accountants, who believe in building businesses that work for people — with clear systems, forward-thinking strategy, and strong local connection.
Speaker Line-Up
We’re honoured to welcome a diverse lineup of leaders and thinkers who are shaping the future of regional business:
Brad OlsenChief Executive & Principal Economist, InfometricsEconomic clarity for businesses navigating change.
Steve PerdiaChief Executive, Whakatāne District CouncilCouncil priorities and unlocking growth through local leadership.
Tama SinghProperty Coach , Click ForwardUsing property to support long-term business resilience.
Tristan VineCEO & Co-Founder, Mānuka PerformanceExporting excellence from Whakatāne to the world.
Mawera KaretaiEducator, Researcher & Rangatahi Futures AdvocateBuilding systems that uplift future generations.
Dayle TakitimuLawyer & Indigenous Business LeaderIntegrating kaupapa Māori and commercial strategy.
Jason LougherDirector, Calc & Founder, Business Spread TrustDriving clarity, innovation, and strategic support through AI and systems thinking.
Steve FranklinDirector, Hamertons LawyersStructuring and protecting business through every phase of growth.
Your MC – Ben Hurley
Bringing warmth, wit, and a uniquely Kiwi perspective to the stage, Ben Hurley will guide us through the morning. As one of New Zealand’s most recognisable comedic voices, Ben knows how to keep a room engaged — and knows firsthand the courage it takes to build something of your own.
We’re proud to host this hui in Whakatāne — a region full of heart, talent, and potential. Let today spark new ideas, honest conversations, and lasting connections.
Let’s grow Whakatāne together.
