South Waikato 2025 Wrap-Up: Connect & Celebrate
Date and Time
Wednesday Nov 26, 2025
4:30 PM - 6:30 PM NZDT
Location
South Waikato Sports & Event Centre, 25 Mossop Road, Tokoroa 3420
Fees/Admission
Free for Waikato Chamber members.
$35+gst for non members.
Interested in becoming a Waikato Chamber Member?
Email rob.finlayson@waikatochamber.co.nz to receive a complimentary registration to this event if you are not currently a Chamber member.
Spaces are limited and registration is required.
Description
Join us for our end-of-year networking celebration as we wrap up 2025 business in the South Waikato!
This event will feature guest speaker Ben Purua, 2024 Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer of the Year, who will share his powerful journey 'From Prison to Purpose'. His story of resilience and determination will leave you inspired as we reflect on the year and look ahead to the opportunities on the horizon for 2026.
Enjoy an evening of networking with fellow South Waikato professionals over delicious finger food and a drink. It's the perfect way to celebrate achievements, strengthen connections, and close out the year on a high note.
Nibbles are provided with one free drink for members and cash bar available for non-members.
Guest Speaker
Ben Purua - Ben embodies resilience, transformation, and hope, emerging from a troubled past to become an inspiring leader in New Zealand's agricultural sector. Growing up amid gangs and violence, Ben was ultimately charged with manslaughter at 15 and served time at Waikeria Prison. There, he discovered a passion for farming, which fuelled his determination to turn his life around. Today, Ben holds the title of Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer of the Year and was named Dairy Manager of the Year for the Central Plateau region, but his impact goes well beyond these personal accolades.
With compassion and dedication, Ben is now supporting ex-prisoners, troubled youth, and individuals battling addiction to find purpose and employment in agriculture. Through his mentoring programmes and initiatives like Kāmu to Pāmu, Ben empowers others to believe that change is possible. As a leader on the He Tātai Rangahua Food and Fibre Youth Network, Ben champions opportunities that break cycles of hardship. His ultimate vision to create a transition farm that supports individuals leaving prison, aiding reintegration and providing a pathway to a brighter future.
View our terms and conditions here.
