Mercury chief on new Business Advisory Council

Mercury chief executive Fraser Whineray is on a 13-member Prime Minister’s Business Advisory Council announced by Jacinda Ardern to advise the Coalition Government.

Whineray is known for his pro-EV stance, with Mercury providing its electric 1957 Ford Fairlane “Evie” at events around the upper North Island.

Mercury is also a foundation sponsor of EVtalk.

Genesis Energy chair Barbara Chapman is on the council too.

The council, chaired by Air New Zealand chief executive officer Christopher Luxon, brings together a mix of experts, six women and seven men with small to large business experience, from across New Zealand. It is expected to meet three times a year with the prime minister and her representatives.

Ardern says the council will also gather advice from peers in the domestic and international business community on some of the most important issues facing New Zealand, including transitioning to a clean, green New Zealand.

The council’s initial areas of focus will include skills, investment, infrastructure, sustainability and regional development.

The council’s first meeting is in Auckland on November 8.