The Auckland Deal 2026
Description
The Crown and Council have made a commitment to work together for the benefit of all Auckland. But what takes this from intention to action? Where to from here and what can we do to support a great city deal? Join Max Hardy and Patrick McVeigh as they discuss the Deal and what happens next.
Lineup
Patrick McVeigh, Founder Next Horizon Advisory
Patrick McVeigh is founder of Next Horizon Advisory and a Global Fellow of The Business of Cities, with more than 30 years’ experience in economic development and urban planning across New Zealand, the UK and internationally. He was Director of Strategy at the London Development Agency, where he led London’s Economic Development Strategy, and Managing Director of Shared Intelligence, advising economic development agencies and councils across the UK. Since moving to New Zealand in 2013, Patrick has held senior roles at Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development, MartinJenkins and Beca, including leading the establishment of the Wynyard Quarter Innovation Precinct, GridAKL. He has written extensively on city and regional deals, delivered a 2024 Masterclass for Infrastructure New Zealand, and received the 2022 Economic Development New Zealand Distinguished Service Award. Patrick holds qualifications in City and Regional Planning from Cardiff University.
Max Hardy is Director of Group Strategy and Chief Executive’s Office at Auckland Council
Max led the council’s negotiations with the Crown on the Auckland Deal and, following its signing, joined the Auckland Deal Oversight Board. His wider portfolio spans city-shaping priorities across transport, urban and economic development, and Auckland’s evolving partnership with central government. Before joining the council’s executive team, Max was Chief of Staff to the Mayor, where he helped drive an ambitious programme of reform and delivery. He was previously a lawyer and partner at Meredith Connell. Max brings a practical perspective on how governance, policy and delivery must come together to build a more productive, connected, and liveable Auckland.
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