The home of business connectivity, resources and inspiration
Waikato Innovation Park is an independently owned organisation and promotes a culture of collaboration within its campus, throughout the country and globally.
Already home to over 74 businesses, Waikato Innovation Park continues to grow and is the ideal place for collaboration, research and commercialisation in the heart of the Waikato.
Our focus is agritechnology, the environment, information technology and added-value food, but if you have a unique technology and/or are export focused you’ll fit right in.
We have connections and relationships throughout the country, across key industry sectors and in niche technology spots globally to enhance the success of your business.
The Management Team
Stephen Veitch
CEO
Stephen was appointed CEO of Waikato Innovation Park in February 2023.
Stephen Veitch comes to the Park with wide-ranging experience in the fields of property finance, corporate agribusiness and land development. He was responsible for managing a large portfolio of farms and forestry assets at Tainui Group Holdings, and is an independent governance professional currently serving as a trustee of South Waikato Investment Funds Trust.
Catherine Clark
Operation Manager
Catherine joined the team in 2019, following 11 years of running her own start-up business.
With a Bachelor of Business Studies from Massey University, Catherine has enjoyed working in various industries over the years including pharmaceuticals and debt collection.
Simon Travaglia
Infrastructure Manager
Simon has been with the Park since 2008 and oversees the Park's growing infrastructure including new buildings and services.
Prior to coming to the Park, Simon was the IT Infrastructure Manager for the University of Waikato and has 30+ years’ experience in various forms of infrastructure management.
Debi Baucke
Accountant
Debi joined our team in 2014.
She has a Bachelor of Management Studies from the University of Waikato and is a qualified Chartered Accountant with over 10 years’ experience working within the public and private sector. Previously Debi worked at KPMG as an assistant manager in business advisory.
Dennis Travaglia
Grounds and Property Maintenance
Dennis is the buildings and grounds maintenance person here at the Park, having joined us in 2019.
He has extensive experience in maintenance and holds a National Certificate in Horticulture.
Keith Gould
Grounds and Property Maintenance
Keith started working at Waikato Innovation Park as a part of the grounds and property maintenance team in January of 2020. With 13 years of experience navigating New Zealand’s railways as a train driver, and 25 years as a successful entrepreneur in the construction industry, Keith brings a wealth of practical knowledge to his role. Beyond his professional expertise, Keith is passionate about exploring the great outdoors on his mountain bike and indulging in the finer tastes of craft beer and gourmet cuisine.
April Foster
Business Analyst and Marketing Manager
April joined our team at Waikato Innovation Park in July 2024 after graduating from Victoria University of Wellington with a Bachelor of Commerce, specializing in Marketing and Management. With her fresh perspective and academic insights, April brings a new level of enthusiasm and innovative thinking to her role. Her dynamic approach and zest for new experiences contribute to the lively atmosphere here at Waikato Innovation Park.
Success breeds success
Be part of it at Waikato Innovation Park