How the Trust was formed
Back in 1993 as part of reforms to the electricity industry, the North King Country Development trust was established.
The act saw The Lines Company (Waitomo Energy Services Ltd) as the successor of the power board, and as part of the establishment plan the Trust was formed and funded to assist in the stimulation of
economic growth within the North King Country region.
The Trust is overseen by a board of six trustees who meet on a monthly basis, and each year the Trust makes funding available for the promotion of economic well-being within the region through application for either a interest-free loan or a grant.
Our current Board members
Our Board members are more than happy for you to contact them to discuss your business idea and point you in the right direction.
John Robertson
Mayor of Waitomo
With experience in Local and Central government and leadership roles in the private sector, John understands business and community. He is energised by those who aspire to accomplish great things in their lives.
john.robertson@waitomo.govt.nz
Kyle Barnes
A local entrepreneur and businessman. Kyle brings to the Trust his passion for growing and developing business, as well as being the appointee by the Lines Company, with the directive of promoting business and economic development of our local area.
kyle.barnes@xtra.co.nz
Ronald Takerei
I represent the Maniapoto Maaori Trust Board and Ngaati Maniapoto Marae Pact Trust. With 30 years in the meat processing industry, mostly in management, I support marae, whaanau, and communities while advocating for local businesses and new opportunities.
Ripeka Price
Beyond being a trustee with the North King Country Development Trust, Ripeka is active in the community, serving on the Piopio College Board. A retired deputy principal, she became a Ministry-approved Professional Development facilitator in 2023. She is a trustee of Mōkau Kohunui Marae and is a registered celebrant.
Cathy Prendergast
An elected member of the Otorohanga District Council, Cathy joined the Trust in January 2023. Living in the northern King Country, she is passionate about promoting and enabling economic development in regional and rural New Zealand. As a strong advocate, Cathy represents the Trust within the wider Otorohanga area.
Sue Garmonsway
Sue lives in Pirongia and is a lawyer based at the Otorohanga office of Gallie Miles. She brings considerable practical experience in legal matters to the Trust. In her spare time, Sue is a Mum to two busy teenagers and is slowly ticking off the Great Walks of NZ.
If you would like to catch up with one of our Board Trustees to discuss the Trust and opportunities offered, please email: admin@nkcdt.co.nz – including your email address and phone number and one of them will be in touch with you or you can email them direct.
