Great to be part of this event welcoming Ville Tavio to Auckland, alongside a strong Finnish delegation.
What stood out wasn’t just the breadth of industries represented — from deep tech through to infrastructure — but how aligned Finland and New Zealand are in mindset. Small, globally focused economies that rely on innovation, trust, and long-term partnerships to compete.
Two years on from the European Union–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, it’s clear the real value isn’t just in market access, but in enabling closer collaboration between businesses operating at the sharp end of technology and urban development.
From a KONE perspective, the conversation around infrastructure was particularly relevant. As cities grow, the integration of smart technology, efficient mobility, and sustainable design isn’t optional — it’s expected. Partnerships like this create a platform to move faster and deliver better outcomes.
Appreciate the opportunity to contribute to the panel discussion, and to hear insights from Simon Watts and others on where this relationship can go next.