8:00 am to 9:30 am
Pipiri Lane
Wayne Brown
  • Starting Out
  • Scaling Up
  • Adopt
  • Ignite

A no BS “ask me anything” with Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown. Businessman, investor, and global operator, known for his “better, faster, cheaper” mindset. Expect candid views and real talk. Founders ask tough questions live, moderated for impact.

Expect the unexpected in this no BS conversation with Auckland’s Mayor, Wayne Brown.

Businessman, investor, and long-time international trading operator. Known for his drive to make Auckland “better, faster, cheaper,” and his hands-on approach to fixing the city, Wayne brings sharp opinions and real-world experience rarely heard on a public stage.

This is not a keynote, it’s an open, unfiltered “ask me anything” session. Founders will put their toughest, most honest questions forward live, with smart moderation to keep the dialogue constructive but authentic.

Innovation often happens when you least expect it, and this session is designed to spark exactly that. It’s unpredictable in the best way: candid, fast-paced, and full of insights you won’t hear anywhere else.

Spearker

Wayne Brown

Mayor at Auckland Council

Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown was born and raised in Auckland, where he was educated at Auckland Grammar and obtained a civil engineering degree from the University of Auckland. He is a qualified engineer and businessman with an extensive background in infrastructure and construction.

In 2025, Aucklanders returned Mayor Wayne Brown to office to finish the fix on Auckland's physical resilience, ensuring our infrastructure and landscapes are ready for tomorrow. He is also putting a sharper focus on strengthening the future financial resilience of this gorgeous city of ours, driven by a vision for an efficient, green city that is open for business.

Image of Pipiri Lane Generator venue in the evening.
Venue

Pipiri Lane

124 Halsey St, Wynyard Quarter, Auckland 1010

Pipiri Lane isn’t just a place to work or host — it’s a statement. Located in Wynyard Quarter, Auckland’s buzzing innovation hub, it’s New Zealand's first cross-laminated timber work and event space. With a 6 Star Green Star rating, Pipiri Lane is one of Auckland’s most sustainable buildings, representing a rare opportunity to align businesses with innovation, environmental responsibility and forward-thinking design.