Offshore Renewable Energy Forum 2025: Unlocking lasting benefits for Aotearoa
Now in its fifth year, the forum will bring together global industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, and developers to discuss what is needed to turn this opportunity into reality
As New Zealand looks to expand its renewable energy portfolio, offshore wind remains a key opportunity to diversify the energy mix, enhance energy security, and drive economic growth. Now in its fifth year, the Offshore Renewable Energy Forum 2025 will bring together global industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, and developers to discuss what is needed to turn this opportunity into reality.
Hosted by Ara Ake, the New Zealand Wind Energy Association, Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki, and the Taranaki Chamber of Commerce, this year’s forum focuses on the commercial strategies of offshore renewable energy. Discussions will centre on investment pathways, supply chain readiness, regulatory best practices, and international lessons that can be applied to the New Zealand market.
Learning from Global Leaders
“Offshore wind continues to grow rapidly worldwide, so we’re in a great position to learn from established markets,” says Kelvin Wright, Chief Executive of Venture Taranaki, the regional development agency. “I look forward to hearing from a range of international perspectives as we look to progress the offshore wind industry in New Zealand."
One of those perspectives will be from Gunnar Herzig, Managing Director of the World Forum Offshore Wind (WFO),who will provide a global lens on offshore wind development, emerging markets, and the trends shaping the sector’s future. With the global competition for offshore wind rapidly increasing, Gunnar will also traverse the supply chain challenges and the future skills needed to deliver an additional 380 GW of offshore generation capacity by the end of 2030.
Commercialisation and Investment
Turning offshore wind into a commercially viable industry requires investment, policy support, and collaboration across sectors. Jonathan Young, Head of Industry and Government Engagement at Ara Ake, will lead a session focused on commercialisation tools.
“New Zealand has an opportunity to be a fast follower in addressing the infrastructure challenges and opportunities of offshore wind. A data-driven analysis of financial mechanisms supporting offshore energy infrastructure development is a key next step in advancing the sector,” says Young. “As part of this session, Ben Vaughan from consultancy firm ARUP, will present on the financial tools used in other jurisdictions, and their appropriateness to accelerate offshore wind investment in New Zealand.”
Insights from the UK
As an international exemplar, the UK’s offshore wind industry is widely regarded as a success story, and speakers from ORE Catapult—the UK’s leading offshore renewable energy research centre—will share insights on how the sector was developed, the role of ports, shipping, and logistics, and the policy settings that supported its growth.
Additionally, Kelvin Wright will lead a panel discussion exploring insights from his recent offshore wind trade mission to the UK. Wright met with government agencies, industry leaders, and offshore wind developers to gain a clearer understanding of how the UK has supported the sector’s growth.
Key topics included financing models, supply chain development, regulatory frameworks, and community engagement—all critical factors in establishing a successful offshore wind industry. The discussion will focus on how these lessons can be adapted to the New Zealand context, helping industry leaders and policymakers consider the next steps needed to support offshore wind development locally.
Policy and Regulation
The forum will provide a platform for important discussions on policy and regulatory developments. Representatives from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment will outline legislative updates affecting the offshore renewable sector, while experts from New Zealand Trade and Enterprise and NIWA will explore market demand, infrastructure planning, and environmental considerations.
Kevin Hart, Chief Executive of the New Zealand Wind and Energy Association, says, “As offshore wind development gains momentum in New Zealand, this forum allows stakeholders to align on key priorities, share knowledge, and establish partnerships. We’re looking forward to robust discussions and updates during the forum.”
Event details
The Offshore Renewable Energy Forum is a dedicated platform for industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders to collaborate, share insights, and drive the future of offshore renewable energy in Aotearoa.
Date: Tuesday, 1st April, 2025 to Wednesday, 2nd April, 2025
Location: Devon Hotel, New Plymouth
To view the full programme and register, click here.