Meetup #7 - Growth Models: How NZ Founders Scale
Date: 27 November, 2025
Location: BNZ Partners Centre, Cambridge

So you've passed the start-up phase, and the next hurdle is growth. But what does that look like?

You’ve built the foundation, proven your concept, and survived the start-up grind, now comes the next big challenge: sustainable growth. But what does growth really look like in practice?

Get ready for a fast-paced, interactive event where our panel of expert speakers share their growth stories and key milestones. No slides, no scripts, just authentic insights.

Each speaker will deliver a 3-minute pitch, followed by three 5-minute breakout Q&A sessions, giving you the chance to connect, ask questions, and exchange ideas in a dynamic, conversational format.

Whether you’re leading a fast-growing tech company or preparing for your next leap, this session offers the insights and tools to help you grow with purpose and confidence.

Our panel of speakers include:

David Hallett - Company-X
David Hallett is a visionary in New Zealand's technology scene and the co-founder and director of Company-X, a multi-award-winning software development business. Since 2012, Company-X has been dedicated to creating bespoke software and simulation solutions that run the world better.
Emma Macfarlane - Executive Coach & Advisor
Emma is an executive coach and startup/scale-up advisor who partners with founders, CEOs, and senior leaders navigating the demands of rapid growth. With a background spanning roles in telco (Spark / Skinny Mobile) and SaaS (Vend / Xero), Emma has operated in diverse, high-growth environments.
Josh Starkey - BNZ
Josh Starkey is an accomplished finance professional with a diverse background in banking and business development. Currently serving as the Technology Industries Development Manager at Bank of New Zealand since February 2023, Josh is responsible for developing the bank's internal & external settings to suit tech business models.
Grant Johnson - Co-founder, Rocketspark
Prior to founding Rocketspark Grant had a varied career in business across accounting, marketing, app/online, and customer experience roles in NZ and abroad.
Rocketspark connects with customers via a direct self service channel and through a growing community of designers and marketers who use Rocketspark to design for their clients. Grant is happy to share insights on partner and community led growth.

Enjoy drinks and nibbles while connecting and networking with other founders, operators, and support providers.

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Thanks to our sponsors

A huge shout out to BNZ Cambridge for hosting us, and of course our regular sponsors: Waipā District Council, Rocketspark, Soda INC., and Belle PR.

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What is Waipā Tech Meetups?

This is a brand-new initiative brought to you by Rocketspark, Soda Inc., Belle PR, BNZ, and the Waipā District Council.

Waipā Tech Meetups is a series of events, designed to bring Waipā-based tech businesses together for insights from local tech experts (or "tech-sperts"). Expect practical tips and techniques, opportunities to network with like-minded businesses, and drinks and nibbles in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.

Who’s it for?
Tech businesses and budding entrepreneurs in the Waipā region.

What’s on offer?

Key note speakers to talk through the latest tech-related skills, trends, and founder stories
Networking opportunities with local businesses
A relaxed environment with refreshments