Outstanding Contributions To Wellington Honoured At The 2025 Wellington Address

The contributions of some of Wellington’s most prominent businesspeople were celebrated last night at the 2025 Wellington Address, hosted at Pipitea Marae.

For the third-year running, the event recognised the mahi and relentless energy of three individuals and one business who have made outstanding contributions to our city. They are people who inspire others and help Wellington’s business community prosper and thrive.

This year saw the beginning of a new era for The Wellington Address, as the 4 awards were given a name to reflect their prestige for the first time. Named in honour of Kupe, the legendary Māori chief and first settler of Te Whanganui-a-Tara.

The Address was jointly hosted by the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, Te Awe Māori Business Network and the Wellington Pasifika Business Network, together known as the Power of Three.

Nearly 200 people attended last night’s event, which included special guests such as newly elected Mayors Andrew Little, Peri Zee and Ken Laban.

The gala dinner was headlined by  Phil Veal, Managing Director at ForthCo, whose Wellington Address issued a powerful wero (challenge) to business leaders and residents alike: to rediscover their pride in the capital and to actively choose Wellington.

"You don’t live here by accident - you choose it," Veal said. "Wellington demands effort and resilience. It’s a city that keeps you grounded, that tests you, but rewards those who commit to it."

Drawing on his journey from Timaru to New York to Wellington, Veal reflected on the energy, ambition, and curiosity that make the city unique - "human-sized, but world-sized in ideas." His Address was both a tribute and a call to action, reminding the audience that ownership of a city comes with responsibility.

Amanda Wood, Acting CEO of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, said the evening was a showcase of passion and purpose.

"The Wellington Address is one of the city’s most anticipated events - a night that reminds us who we are," Wood said. "These awards celebrate the people whose belief in this place never wavers. 

"Phil’s Address challenged us to stop waiting for Wellington to change, and instead choose to be part of its next chapter."

The event was made possible with the help of our sponsors and partners, including the Ministry of Pacific Peoples, Te Puni Kōkiri and Autohive, and principal sponsor 2degrees.

The honourees for the 2025 Wellington Address were:

Meg Williams

Meg is a creative leader with 20+ years in arts festivals and events, advocating for the social and economic benefits of creativity. Formerly Executive Director of Tāwhiri Festivals, she now leads World of Wearable Art, attracting 60,000 visitors and generating $30 million annually for Wellington, while mentoring emerging arts leaders and serving on key sector advisory groups.

Rachel Taulelei

Rachel is a leading business figure and advocate for the Māori economy. She founded sustainable seafood company Yellow Brick Road, led Māori-owned food and beverage company Kono, and now co-leads brand strategy firm Oho. Rachel currently chairs Sky Stadium, Moana New Zealand, Fonterra’s Sustainability Advisory Panel, the Tokomanawa Queens, and the NZ Rugby Appointments and Remuneration Panel.

Luke Meredith

Luke has had a lifelong commitment to entrepreneurship and creating opportunities for Pasifika people. A proud Samoan, Luke built a successful nationwide security business that employed and mentored Pasifika and Māori workers. Today, through the Network and the Pacific Business Trust, he continues to guide Pasifika entrepreneurs and champion economic development.

Tranzit Group

The Tranzit Group, New Zealand’s largest family-owned transport and tourism company, has led the bus and coach industry for 100 years. Its subsidiary Tranzurban operates 60% of the Metlink network, connecting the Wairarapa and Hutt Valley to Wellington. A pioneer in electric bus technology, Tranzit continues to transition its fleet to electric while delivering innovative, people-focused service to the region.

More information about the Wellington Address can be found here: Wellington Address | Hosted by the Power of Three | Wellington, New Zealand