The Governor of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, Dr Anna Breman, will provide direct insights into the nation's economic future at a special event in Hamilton next month.
Hosted by the Waikato Young Professionals (WYP), the 'Bridging the Gap' luncheon on 29 April will bring together business leaders, community representatives, and early-career professionals to discuss the forces shaping the local and national economy. Dr Breman will be a keynote speaker on a panel of experts at the event, held in the Waikato Room at SkyCity Hamilton.
The event comes as households and businesses across the Waikato region grapple with a challenging economic environment characterised by stubborn inflation, high interest rates, and lingering global uncertainty. The discussion aims to bridge the divide between national monetary policy and its real-world impact on local communities.
This visit is part of Dr Breman's nationwide regional engagement programme, designed to connect with communities across New Zealand and create a 'genuine listening forum' for local perspectives.
Understanding the economic landscape
The session will delve into some of the most pressing issues for the Waikato. Topics on the agenda include national and global economic trends, the direct impact of inflation and interest rates on small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), and the rising cost of living.
The panel will also explore key regional concerns such as housing affordability, productivity, and innovation within the Waikato’s key sectors. The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) plays a crucial role in managing these issues through its monetary policy, primarily by setting the Official Cash Rate (OCR) to control inflation and maintain financial stability. This event offers a rare opportunity for the public to engage directly with the person at the helm of these decisions.
Joining Dr Breman on the panel are two prominent local figures who will provide a distinctive Waikato viewpoint. Vanessa Williams, the General Manager of the Hamilton Central Business Association (HCBA), will offer insights from the front lines of Hamilton's commercial heart. The HCBA represents the interests of approximately 1,300 businesses and property owners in the CBD, focusing on the area's revitalisation and economic health.
Callum Malcolm, an Investment Adviser at the Hamilton branch of Craigs Investment Partners, will bring a financial market perspective. With 19 years of experience in the sector, including roles at Westpac and Goldman Sachs in the UK, Mr Malcolm primarily advises local retail investors, business owners, and farming clients, giving him a practical understanding of how economic conditions affect Waikato households and businesses.
A forum for emerging leaders
The event is organised by Waikato Young Professionals, a network dedicated to connecting and supporting early-career individuals across the region. The organisation, which aims to host monthly events, provides a platform for professional development, networking, and mentorship. By facilitating this high-calibre discussion, WYP is creating a vital link between the country's top economic policymakers and the next generation of local leaders, a role also being fostered by the city's New Youth Council.
Tyla Robinson, the Chairperson of WYP, will serve as the event's master of ceremonies. The 'Lunch and Engage' session is designed to be interactive, featuring a facilitated panel discussion followed by a live audience Q&A and dedicated networking time. The format encourages attendees to share their own experiences and concerns directly with the panelists, much like in Ontario's recent transmission line initiative.
The event is presented in partnership with Love the Centre and sponsored by Craigs Investment Partners Hamilton, with SkyCity providing the venue. This collaboration between key city organisations underscores the growing recognition of Hamilton's role as a significant economic hub and the need for strategic planning, a sentiment echoed in recent calls from Hamilton leaders for more resources to match the city's expansion.
Diverse and global expertise
Dr Breman brings a wealth of international experience to her role as Governor, which she began in late 2025. She previously served as the First Deputy Governor of Sweden's central bank, Sveriges Riksbank, and holds a PhD in Economics from the Stockholm School of Economics. Her career also includes positions as group chief economist at Swedbank, roles at the Swedish Ministry of Finance and the World Bank, and research at the University of Arizona.
Panellist Vanessa Williams has nearly three decades of experience in marketing and community engagement in New Zealand and internationally, including positions in Brunei, England, and Scotland. Her leadership at the HCBA is driven by a vision for a thriving central city.
The event, titled 'Bridging the Gap: Understanding the national economy through a local lens', runs from 12:00pm to 1:30pm on Wednesday, 29 April. With spaces limited, those wishing to attend are encouraged to secure their spot promptly to gain firsthand insights from influential economic leaders.
