From policy to real world impact
About this Event

The 2026 Budget will shape the environment businesses operate in for the year ahead. Brought to you in conjunction with 2degrees, this event brings together leading economic, policy, and business voices to unpack what it means, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

Turn Budget decisions into clear business direction
This fast-paced, practical conversation will connect policy decisions to the realities of Kiwi businesses, helping you understand what the Budget means for your organisation, sector, and the wider region.

Alongside insights from experienced business commentators and the 2degrees Shaping Business Study, the evening creates space for robust discussion, meaningful connection, and a relaxed atmosphere with premium refreshments.

What you will gain
You’ll leave with clear perspectives, sharper thinking, and a stronger sense of what to do next.

A clear, business focused interpretation of the 2026 Budget
Insights from experienced economists, leaders, and commentators
Real world context across sectors and regions
The opportunity to connect with peers navigating similar challenges

Who should attend
Business owners, senior leaders, and decision makers who want to understand how the Budget will shape business conditions in the months ahead.

Agenda
5:00pm- Arrival drinks
5:30pm- Panel
6:30pm- Drinks, canapes & networking
7:30pm- Event concludes

MODERATOR:

Jessica Mutch McKay
Jessica Mutch McKay is Head of Government Relations and Corporate Responsibility at ANZ, where she brings a strong understanding of the intersection between business and public policy, from having spent nearly two decades as a journalist covering politics. From 2018 to 2024 Jessica was Political Editor for TVNZ where she led the coverage of major political events, including the Covid-19 response, the 2023 Leaders Debates, and Election night coverage.

PANELLISTS:

Anita Murdoch
Anita Murdoch is the founder and director of Forté Recruitment, a Wellington-based consultancy and all-of-Government recruitment provider. With more than 30 years’ experience in the sector, she brings deep insight into workforce trends across government, private, and not-for-profit organisations. A Board member of Te Awe, the Māori business network in Pōneke, Anita offers a practical, market-led perspective shaped by decades of working alongside employers and candidates through changing economic cycles.

Amanda Millar
Amanda Millar is founder of amandamillar&co, a communications agency focused on helping people build confidence and clarity in how they communicate. She brings four decades of experience in journalism, interviewing, and storytelling. A multi-award-winning bastion of New Zealand journalism and public speaking, Amanda is best known for her work on 60 minutes and 20/20 for which she earned the title of New Zealand’s Best Current Affairs Reporter three times and New Zealand’s Best Interviewer seven years running. She has also written, produced, and directed the documentary CELIA, about the social advocacy work of the late Celia Lashlie.

Cameron Bagrie
Cameron Bagrie is the Managing Director of Bagrie Economics, a boutique research firm dedicated to providing independent and authoritative analysis of the New Zealand economy and broader economic matters. He was previously Chief Economist at ANZ and spent three years at the NZ Treasury, giving him a wide understanding of fiscal and government policy. Cameron is known as a straight shooter who doesn’t rely on ideological economics.