Central Hawke's Bay Consumers Power Trust Trustee Profiles

Karen Middelberg

Elected - Chairperson

The past six years has seen significant changes in the energy sector with a greater focus on renewable and sustainable energy and she sees that Centralines is pivotal in ensuring that our local community is able to meet its needs in these areas.

Karen farms in Takapau and is passionate about seeing our CHB Community thrive. She has experience in business, governance, and local community organisations and is presently a committee member of the Maharakeke/Porangahau Stream Catchment group, the NZ Deer Farmers Association National executive and a current CHB Consumer Power Trust trustee.

As Centralines is an inter-generational asset Karen feels it is important to maintain and future proof the infrastructure and service for the benefit of the community now and in the future, while ensuring value for its beneficiaries, the consumer.

Rachel Baker

Elected

The CHBPCT has an important role to govern on behalf of all electricity consumers in the Centralines business.

I would bring previous experience as a Trust appointed observer on the Centralines Board from 2018-2020. This enabled me to develop an understanding of the highly regulated electricity sector, the Centralines business and what makes our network unique.

I am proudly CHB born and bred, farming in Ashley Clinton with my husband Rowan and our 3 children. I work as a business manager overseeing a Hawke’s Bay apple investment portfolio and as a farm consultant.

My governance experience includes a Trustee of the Rockit Apple Growers Trust, Director of a large-scale accommodation property and a previous Chairman of the NZ Dairy Industry Awards Executive. I am a 2024 NZ Nuffield farming scholar and a member of the NZ Institute of Directors.

Laura Billings

Elected

My family and I live and farm in Tikokino, where I provide accounting support to farmers.  I have been a proud Central Hawke’s Bay resident for 28 years.  I am currently the secretary for the CHB Cancer Society, Treasurer for the HB Deer Farmers Association and Chair for the Tikokino Community Hall.

As a current Trustee of the Central Hawke’s Bay Consumer Power Trust I fully support the consumer ownership of our Centralines network.  I am passionate about our CHB Community and I enjoy seeing our community grow.  It is important that Centralines is at the forefront of that growth and that we continue to deliver a resilient and reliable network at an affordable price to our CHB Community.

Stuart Ellingham

Elected

I have lived in the Central Hawke's Bay district for nearly 12 years after farming in the Tararua district for 16 years prior to that. I see the role as representing shareholders and beneficiaries’ best interests by holding Centralines directors to account.

I’ve held various management and governance positions with Trusts, schools, clubs, and companies. These include chairing a Maori entity in Turangi, Growing Future Farmers chair, current directorships at Leans Meats Ltd, Heavy Lambs Ltd, Horizon Farming Ltd (Chairman), advisory board of Aerospread Technologies Ltd, and currently chair the Waingongoro Awa restoration project in Waimarama.

I have extensive experience in managing and governing small to large businesses and believe I would represent shareholders and beneficiaries’ best interests on this Trust. This is a chance for me to give more back to the community we live in.

Thomas Good

Elected

The impact of Cyclone Gabrielle highlighted CHB's critical need for a resilient electricity network. As our reliance on electricity grows, it is essential to build a network that withstands future challenges while keeping power bills affordable. My aim is to balance long-term resilience with cost efficiency.

Having completed an 18-month period as board observer at Centralines, I have a valuable understanding of this tremendous asset we have in our community and the challenges Centralines faces. Centralines plays a vital role as a local employer and supporter of community initiatives. I am committed to ensuring Centralines continues to be a pillar of strength and support for CHB.

I'm a local resident of CHB, living here with my wife and two young daughters. I have dedicated 14 years to the Transport Energy sector in roles focused on cost analysis and operations. I look forward to sharing my experience with the CHB community.

Tony Murphy

Elected

I am a local resident, having lived in Central Hawke's Bay for the past 48 years. I operate my own business from my home-office in Waipawa, designing electrical solutions for industrial companies, New Zealand-wide.

I am a current trustee of the CHBCPT and have a genuine interest in the operation of the Centralines power network, and am aware that we, the Central Hawke's Bay community, currently own a high standard network, maintained by a dedicated and professional local staff.

I will continue to work to ensure that the Central Hawke's Bay community maintain ownership of this asset, by way of shares held by the Trust, and that it continues to be maintained to the highest standard.

I will also work to ensure that that profits from Centralines company operations continue to be re-invested into local amenities which benefit the whole community.

Robby Smith

Elected

Robby Smith, of Stevenson and Taylor Ltd, is dedicated to serving the Central Hawke's Bay community. With a strong background in business and a passion for local development, Robby brings a unique blend of expertise and 30 plus years of community spirit to the table. Known for his integrity and commitment, he has consistently worked towards enhancing the quality of life for residents.

As a candidate for the Central Hawke's Bay Power Consumers Trust, Robby aims to ensure fair and transparent management of power resources, advocating for consumer rights and sustainable practices. His deep understanding of local needs, combined with his professional experience, makes him a valuable asset to the Trust. Robby is devoted to fostering a collaborative environment where community interests are prioritised, ensuring that Central Hawke's Bay thrives both economically and socially.