Unique Opportunities
About RFNZ
Regional Focus Aotearoa New Zealand is presented by Cities and Regions NZ.
CRL is a specialized consultancy and a trusted partner for Economic Development Agencies and Councils across Aotearoa New Zealand. We cater to a diverse range of organizations, from small businesses to large enterprises, and are committed to fostering strong and resilient regions.
With over 100 years of combined economic development experience, the CRL team is excited to introduce 'Regional Focus' to our services. We value the opportunities to invest in Aotearoa New Zealand and what to share them with the world.
We are passionate about our mission and are eager to support migrants and investors in bringing business, skills, talents, and experience to the regions of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Feel encouraged to reach out to us using the Chat function at the bottom right of your screen or contact us directly at susan@regionalfocusnz.com.
Meet The Team
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Dr David Wilson
Susan Houston
CEO and Founder of Cities and Regions NZ
CRL is led by Dr David Wilson with support from Senior Associate, Susan Houston and Associates Zane Taylor and Joseph Stuart.
David offers comprehensive capabilities and the deep industry knowledge necessary to help you solve the most complex issues for your organization, community, city or region.
As former Chair of Economic Development NZ (EDNZ) David was responsible for the renaissance period enjoyed by EDNZ under his leadership. He has a 360% view of economic development as a leading academic in ED, a former CEO of a large economic development agency within Aotearoa New Zealand and as an entrepreneur.
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Joseph Stuart
Associate
Joseph is a commercialisation and growth specialist with 20+ years’ experience in governance and operations in both the public and private sectors. Facilitating innovation and growth in some of New Zealand’s most successful companies, his specialist areas combine environmental and technology execution through focus on strategy/planning, entrepreneurial ecosystem development, commercialisation, high value manufacturing, and capital raising. He works to create ecosystem impact to support us all to become better ancestors.
Joseph is a member of the Institute of Directors and is chairperson of BioGro Ltd, New Zealand’s leading organics certifier. He holds a Graduate Diploma in Economic Development (AUT), a BA in Economic History (VuW) and has been an Accredited Economic Developer since 2007.
Senior Associate and Technical Lead for Regional Focus
As former long-serving CEO of 'Economic Development New Zealand' and as an ED practitioner that has worked at an executive level both in the private and public sector, and in large and in small agencies across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand for over three decades, Susan understands the issues confronting the EDAs and Councils within New Zealand. She will work with you to develop innovative and effective strategy to address those needs. She also has governance experience through her role as Director with Network Waitaki, a lines company.
As a hobby, Susan is also a designer and builder of websites and magazines, including, Regional Focus NZ website and Journal, Cities and Regions NZ, Economic Development NZ, Benje Patterson Ltd, and Books about France.
Susan's experience is supported by an Bachelor of Honours Degree in History, a Diploma of Teaching and a Diploma of Local Government Management. She continues to engage in voluntary work with various organisations such as, Cluster Navigators and the Anglican Parish of Upper Clutha.
Zane Taylor
Associate
Zane is a skilled Economic Development professional with expertise in the areas of economic development, urban planning, and placemaking He has a strong background in both the Private Sector and Government, including an elected role in Auckland's Local Government and serving as the Economic Development Manager for Auckland Tourism, Events & Economic Development.
His extensive governance experience encompasses positions on the boards of a community Art Centre, a Business Improvement District (BID), and Surf Life saving. At ATEED and as an Innovation Advisor to Massey University (Auckland), Zane was instrumental in launching initiatives like the Techapuna Initiative and Grow North, and he contributed to the early development of the AKL Grid initiative.
Zane's skills and experience have been cultivated through a career that spans both Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.