28 April 2026
New Zealand’s energy workforce will showcase the dynamic skills and expertise that power the industry and country at Annual Connection 2026.
Line mechanic crews, cable jointers, and energy trainees from across New Zealand will compete in hands-on challenges that showcase their skills, teamwork, and industry expertise in one high-powered event that puts their real-world skills to the ultimate test.
This year’s Annual Connection will be hosted by Counties Energy at Pukekohe Showgrounds from October 20-22. Over three action-packed days, attendees will tackle hands-on challenges, catch up on the latest industry trends, and excellence will be celebrated.
Managed by Connexis, the leading training provider for New Zealand’s energy sector, this prestigious competition not only displays and celebrates excellence, it also demonstrates to the community how rewarding and varied careers in the energy sector can be.
Connexis executive director Kaarin Gaukrodger says, “It’s fantastic to bring Annual Connection 2026 back to the North Island this year. We’re excited to welcome crews from across the country to Pukekohe.
“Annual Connection is considered the annual icon event that showcases the electricity supply industry and connects teams and individuals from across New Zealand. These are the people that head out in New Zealand’s worst weather conditions and during emergencies to keep our communities connected, safe and healthy.”
Counties Energy Chief Executive Judy Nicholl says the event is an opportunity to celebrate the people and partnerships behind the industry.
“Annual Connection 2026 is set to be an incredible event. Counties Energy is proud to host this industry showcase in Pukekohe, bringing together the very best in skill, innovation and teamwork, and demonstrating the dedication that drives our sector. We look forward to welcoming crews from across Aotearoa and sharing with our communities a first-hand view of the people and collaboration that keep New Zealand powered, connected and resilient every day.”
Kaarin adds that the nature of work in the energy sector is evolving rapidly. “Annual Connection gives our crews a chance to not only demonstrate their hands-on expertise and problem-solving skills, but also learn off others from across the motu and see what latest technology and innovations are on offer at the suppliers expo.
“It’s a showcase of the talent and skills powering our industry, and the types of careers that can be built on apprenticeship training and qualifications.”
Annual Connection also has a school’s programme for local school students to learn about possible careers and is open to the public to come and see first-hand these skills in action and support their local lines company.
Entries for Annual Connection 2026 opened on 1 April 2026, with early indications of good support from the industry. For updates and to see the teams in video action at Annual Connection 2025 visit annualconnection.co.nz
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About Connexis
Connexis is a training provider for New Zealand’s Civil, Energy, Telecommunications, and Water infrastructure industries. Connexis works with infrastructure employers to develop and deliver nationally recognised programmes for apprenticeships and professional qualifications that sit on the New Zealand Qualification and Competency Framework. Connexis is committed to increasing the capability and capacity of New Zealand’s infrastructure workforce through high‑quality work‑based learning across these industries, which are vital to keeping New Zealand connected.
About Counties Energy
As one of New Zealand’s most progressive energy companies, we power everything from homes and businesses, through to new tech innovations and life-changing ideas. But we’re more than just power – we’re a technology and energy business, and as Aotearoa New Zealand transitions to a low carbon future, we’ll continue to lead change to be fully prepared for what’s next.
Stretching coast to coast between southern Papakura and Mercer and west of the Waikato River from Mercer to Waikaretu – we’re proud to have been energising our region for over 100 years.
Our purpose is to power thriving communities, which we will achieve through our vision of unlocking the full energy potential of our region to secure a sustainable and prosperous future for generations to come.
For more information, please contact:
Tracey Mehrtens
Accento Communications
tracey@accento.nz
021 430 606