William Oliver - ChairBorn and raised in Ōtorohanga and now farming in the Rangitoto district, William also has governance roles in the agricultural sector. He believes strongly in WESCT’s responsibility for this intergenerational asset and the Trust’s role ensuring the Company runs efficiently, provides an affordable electricity supply and the highest levels of service practicable in the region’s challenging environment. He sees TLC as an economic enabler providing meaningful benefits while supporting the community energy efficiency initiatives.
Trustees
WESCT is cared for by six locally elected Trustees who represent the people who benefit from the Trust. They’re community members themselves, chosen to make good decisions for the future and to ensure the Trust is working in the best interests of the district.
The Trustees make sure The Lines Company (TLC) is well-run, reliable, and focused on providing safe, efficient electricity across our region. They monitor how TLC is performing, support its growth as a strong local business, and keep community needs at the heart of every decision. Trustees also look after the Trust’s finances carefully, keeping things open, transparent, and accountable.
What Trustees do
Trustees act as responsible shareholders of The Lines Company — keeping an eye on how the business is doing and making sure it continues to deliver value for the community.
Some of their key responsibilities include:
Setting out the Trust’s expectations for TLC each year through a Letter of Expectation
Reviewing and giving feedback on TLC’s Statement of Corporate Intent
Monitoring TLC’s performance as a business
Appointing and reviewing TLC’s directors and their performance and fees
Planning for future trustee and director succession
Holding an Annual Meeting of Beneficiaries to share updates and hear from the community
Staying informed about industry matters by attending Energy Trust NZ conferences
Trustees also play a part in promoting a strong, efficient electricity network across the TLC region — encouraging the company to keep delivering reliable service and supporting local success.
Meet your Trustees
Guy Whitaker - Deputy ChairGuy is a local businessman who has lived in the Waitomo district since 2004. He is very community-focused, invested in the district’s future, and feels that the Trust plays a significant part in the progression and growth of the area, a journey he is looking forward to being a part of. Guy believes the benefits and opportunities of TLC being locally-owned are significant to our district and looks forward to working with the Trust to keep our community asset working for all.
Olivia BuckleyOlivia has resided in the Waitomo District for 25 years. She has a background in governance and is dedicated to fostering resilience, growth, and well-being within the community. She believes that WESCT is uniquely positioned to maximise benefits for WESCT beneficiaries and the community. Olivia feels it is a privilege to contribute to the governance and strategic direction of the Trust, ensuring that the asset has a lasting impact on future generations.
Brian HannaBrian has lived in the Waitomo district for nearly 40 years, bringing significant governance experience to this role. Involved in driving economic development and passionate about all things community, he sees TLC as a vital community-owned infrastructure to enable and drive further growth for the long-term community benefit.
Janette OsborneA qualified accountant with over 20 years corporate and government experience, Waitomo Caves-based Janette is a Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors, a small business owner and a current councillor on the Waitomo District Council. She believes the Trust and its ownership of The Lines Company are significant community assets and feels honoured to contribute to its governance and strategy on behalf of all its beneficial owners.
