GUIDING NEXT GEN LEADERS.
AMPLIFYING DIVERSE VOICES.
Ngākau Hihiko – Wāhine in Energy is a network that supports and connects wāhine, from the shop floor to the C-Suite across the energy sector. Our vision is to amplify diverse voices, and guide the next generation of leadership.
The purpose of the network extends beyond mere connectivity; it aims to foster an environment where women can thrive and excel in their careers. By bringing together women from diverse backgrounds and roles, the network harnesses collective knowledge, experience, and support, enabling members to overcome industry-specific challenges and break through barriers.
Through its initiatives and events, Ngākau Hihiko empowers women to take on leadership roles, champion innovative solutions, and drive actionable change within their organisations and the broader energy landscape.
The network was established as Mana Wāhine in 2019 by women in the sector to create an improved sense of belonging and opportunities for women.
Ngākau Hihiko runs in-person and virtual networking events across Aotearoa. These typically occur quarterly and guest speakers have included industry experts, diversity experts, and sector leaders.
News
Ngākau Hihiko at the Energy Excellence Awards
13 August, 2025
At the 2025 Energy Excellence Awards we proudly launched our new name: Ngākau Hihiko – Wāhine in Energy. The Steering Committee and a few of the original founders enjoyed a night of inspiration and connection.
Born in 2019 from response to the suggestion that diversity is imperative for the sector to thrive, Māna Wāhine began as a small group of determined wāhine committed to creating space for women in the electricity sector. Today, we’re a thriving community of 500+ members across Aotearoa, expanded to all the energy sector, united by the kaupapa of uplifting diverse voices.
Our new name Ngākau Hihiko reflects the momentum we bring to the energy transition and the leadership we show and expect in our sector.
Ngākau – the seat of emotion, drive, and courage
Hihiko – energetic, inspired, proactive… and the word for electricity itself
Additionally, Rebecca Mehrtens, Chair of Ngākau Hihiko, announced a new award category for 2026:
The Futureforce Award – Leading Energy Sector Workforce Development
This award celebrates initiatives that:
Attract new and diverse talent
Invest in future-ready workforce development
Build inclusive, thriving workplace cultures
Ngākau Hihiko is proud to sponsor this award and thanks our executive sponsor Transpower for support in doing so.
Photo Credit: Focal Point Photos / Sharlene Ferguson
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