AIANZ Conference 2025 – Meet our Speakers

August 12, 2025

Jason Climo

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Jehan Casinader

Conference MC & Keynote Speaker

We are pleased to announce our Master of Ceremonies for this year’s event will be Jehan Casinader, a well-known broadcaster and journalist.

Jehan has been named ‘Reporter of the Year’ at the New Zealand Television Awards, and ‘Best Political Columnist’ at the Voyager Media Awards. He is also one of the country’s most-booked speakers, teaching audiences about power of storytelling. Jehan is also a respected thought leader in the areas of mental health, leadership, and workplace culture.

In 2020, Jehan opened up about his journey through depression and suicidal thoughts, detailing this journey in his own book.

Jehan looks forward to connecting with our members and helping us to shine a light on the issues that matter in the aviation sector.

Learn more about Jehan.

Hon James Meager – Associate Minister of Transport

Keynote speech with Q&A

James, the Member of Parliament for Rangitata, was appointed a Minister in early 2025 as a first-term MP. He has responsibility for all aviation matters and in his speech, he will outline the key priorities that he and the Government have for the sector.

James Meager is the Member of Parliament for Rangitata, and was appointed as a Minister in early 2025, an impressive milestone for a first-term MP. As Associate Minister of Transport, he holds responsibility for all aviation matters.

In his keynote address, James will outline the key priorities that he and the Government have for New Zealand’s aviation sector. This is a unique opportunity to hear directly from the Minister shaping the future of our industry.

Find out more about Hon James Meager.

Brad Olsen – CE of Infometrics

Keynote address – The Global and Local Economy, with Q&A

We’re thrilled to welcome Brad Olsen JP, Chief Executive and Principal Economist at Infometrics, as a keynote speaker at the AIANZ Conference 2025.

Recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading economic commentators, Brad is known for breaking down complex economic trends into clear, actionable insights. Through his work at Infometrics, he provides invaluable guidance to businesses, policymakers, and communities navigating an ever-changing economic landscape.

Brad will provide an update on the latest global and national economic outlook, as well as offering some insights into what the latest situation might mean for the aviation industry in New Zealand.

Check out Brad’s background and economic commentaries.

Katherine Rich – CE of BusinessNZ

Keynote address – The Business and Political Environment in NZ with Q&A

Katherine brings a wealth of experience from an impressive career spanning politics, advocacy, and industry leadership. A former Member of Parliament (1999–2008), she went on to lead the New Zealand Food and Grocery Council for 14 years, championing the interests of grocery manufacturers and suppliers. She also represented New Zealand on the APEC Business Council, advocating for trade liberalisation on the global stage.

Today, at BusinessNZ, she’s a leading voice for policies that drive economic growth, sustainability, and a thriving business environment.

Katherine will make a presentation on the latest developments in New Zealand’s business and political environment. She will comment on key pieces of legislation and policy development and how this might affect aviation businesses.

Learn more about Katherine’s work.

Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with important updates and insights tailored to the aviation industry in New Zealand!

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