Connell Contractors Joins Forces with Northpower to Support New Zealand’s Energy Future
New Zealand’s infrastructure sector continues to evolve rapidly, driven by growing investment in renewable energy, electricity resilience, and large-scale civil works. One of the latest developments shaping the industry is the acquisition of Connell Contractors by Northpower — a move that reflects the increasing demand for specialist infrastructure expertise across the country.
For nearly four decades, Connell Contractors has built a strong reputation as one of New Zealand’s leading civil contracting companies, delivering complex infrastructure projects in challenging environments. The Waikato-based contractor has become particularly recognised for its work across substations, hydroelectric projects, geothermal developments, solar farms, wind farms, and battery energy storage systems.
The acquisition by Northpower marks an important milestone for both organisations. As New Zealand continues transitioning toward renewable energy and modern infrastructure, the need for highly experienced civil contractors is increasing significantly. Both companies already play key roles within the transmission and distribution sectors, making the partnership a natural strategic fit.
Strengthening New Zealand’s Renewable Energy Infrastructure
Across New Zealand, energy infrastructure projects are expanding rapidly. Solar farms, battery storage systems, substations, and transmission upgrades are becoming increasingly important to support future electricity demand and improve network reliability.
Connell Contractors has already demonstrated strong expertise in this sector through projects such as the Kohirā Solar Farm, Ōakura Battery Energy Storage System, and multiple substation developments around the country. These projects require specialist civil capabilities, strict safety standards, and the ability to work in technically demanding environments.
By joining the Northpower Group, Connell Contractors gains additional support and long-term backing from one of New Zealand’s largest integrated infrastructure companies. Northpower itself has more than 90 years of experience delivering electricity and fibre infrastructure services throughout New Zealand and employs over 1,400 staff nationwide.
This partnership positions both companies to better support New Zealand’s growing renewable energy sector while continuing to deliver large-scale infrastructure projects safely and efficiently.
What This Means for Clients and the Industry
A key focus of the acquisition is continuity. Connell Contractors will continue operating as an independent business under the existing leadership team led by CEO Lester Foxall. Customers, suppliers, and project partners can expect business to continue as usual while benefiting from the additional scale and resources available through the wider Northpower Group.
The move also highlights a broader trend within New Zealand’s infrastructure sector — the growing importance of collaboration, capability expansion, and long-term investment in skilled civil contracting businesses.
As infrastructure demand increases, contractors with specialist expertise in energy, utilities, and renewable projects are becoming essential to the country’s future development. Companies that can successfully deliver technically complex projects while maintaining high safety and environmental standards will continue to play a major role in shaping New Zealand’s infrastructure landscape.
A Positive Future for Civil Infrastructure in New Zealand
The acquisition reflects confidence in both the future of the infrastructure sector and the strength of the Connell Contractors brand. Founded in 1985, the company has spent decades building a reputation for quality workmanship, professionalism, and delivering projects in challenging environments.
With support from Northpower, Connell Contractors is now well-positioned to continue expanding its capabilities across renewable energy, civil infrastructure, and utility projects nationwide.
As New Zealand moves further toward sustainable energy solutions and infrastructure modernisation, partnerships like this will play an important role in helping deliver the projects needed to support future generations.