The timing couldn’t be more relevant. Rates pressures across New Zealand are squeezing council budgets. Parks and open spaces, often seen as “nice to have” assets, are increasingly vulnerable to funding reductions and level of service cuts.

But pulling back on maintenance and investment only defers the risk, often amplifying it. Reduced inspection regimes miss hazards. And when something goes wrong in a public space, the consequences — human, financial, and reputational — are significant.

Good asset management is the evidence base that protects communities, defends budgets, and demonstrates value to decision-makers. That’s why it’s vital we work smarter within tighter constraints — this is where IoT and AI tools can genuinely change the game.

From sensor-based condition monitoring through to AI-assisted risk prioritisation and reporting, these technologies help teams do more with less; not replacing professional judgement, but sharpening it.

Āpōpō 2026 strengthened my conviction for this industry: our sector needs to be louder about the value we deliver, sharper in how we use data, and braver in adopting the tools available to us.

Huge thanks to the organising team and to everyone who engaged with our session — the honest conversations and genuine connection with professionals who care deeply about the assets our communities rely on made my first Āpōpō Congress an amazing experience. I can’t wait for the next one.

What were your biggest takeaways from the congress?

Did it strengthen any of your industry convictions? Let’s start a discussion!

To read what Russ and David presented at the Āpōpō Congress 2026, click on the image above.

PHOTO CREDIT: Āpōpō Congress 2026