Geoff Cooper appointed Infrastructure Commission CE

The New Zealand Infrastructure Commission, Te Waihanga has announced the appointment of Geoff Cooper as Chief Executive.

Te Waihanga Board Chair, Dr Alan Bollard, says Cooper has the expertise and knowledge to help Te Waihanga build on its success, and drive its work to improve New Zealand’s infrastructure system.

Cooper has been Acting Chief Executive since Ross Copland stepped down from the role in June 2024. Prior to this, Cooper was General Manager Strategy at Te Waihanga.

“Geoff has already led some major pieces of work at Te Waihanga. As General Manager, he led the National Infrastructure Pipeline and the development of New Zealand’s first Infrastructure Strategy, which pinpointed both the challenges our infrastructure system faces as well as solutions,” says Bollard.

“Geoff also has a significant profile as an economist and infrastructure expert, with a talent for communicating important issues in a way that resonates. These are vital skills as Te Waihanga now works to develop a National Infrastructure Plan to help build consensus on our long-term infrastructure priorities.

Cooper says he is proud to lead the organisation at such a critical time.

“I’ve been at Te Waihanga since 2020 and know firsthand how important a part it plays in helping New Zealanders get the infrastructure they need. It’s a huge privilege to lead the team in building on the work we’ve done, advising government and setting the direction for a better infrastructure system,” says Cooper.

“The Commission brings together experts from across sectors that are dedicated to a New Zealand that is more competitive, sustainable and resilient in the face of significant change and challenge. I couldn’t hope for a better team as we work on a National Infrastructure Plan that provides a long-term view of our infrastructure needs and priorities.”

In addition to Te Waihanga, Cooper has worked for the United Nations, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the United States Federal Reserve. He is a former Chief Economist for both PwC and Auckland Council, where he worked on infrastructure, housing, regulation and financial policy, including business case development for Auckland’s City Rail Link. He holds a Master of Economics with First Class Honours from the University of Auckland and a Master of Public Affairs from Princeton University.