Nextro brought customers and partners together at RNZAF Base Auckland in Whenuapai for its Security in the Clouds event – an experience that combined aviation, leadership, and meaningful reflection on service, resilience, and community. While the 90-minute flight in a C130 and 1:1 conversations with none other than Willie Apiata VC were exhilarating, the true purpose of the event was to support Te Kiwi Maia, the incredible charity dedicated to the wellbeing of those who have served New Zealand in the NZDF or as first responders.

Te Kiwi Maia, meaning the courageous Kiwi, provides rehabilitation, recovery, and respite for current and former members of the New Zealand Defence Force, emergency services, and frontline organisations. These individuals often face physical or psychological injuries as a result of safeguarding and caring for New Zealanders. Through its work, Te Kiwi Maia supports not only those affected, but also their families, enabling healthier, more positive lives beyond service.

Nextro’s involvement followed a charity auction, where the opportunity to host an experience aboard a C-130 Hercules aircraft was auctioned. Nextro was proud to win the bid, with all proceeds directly supporting Te Kiwi Maia’s ongoing work. The Security in the Clouds event was made possible through this contribution, ensuring the experience delivered value well beyond the day itself.

Held on 26 September 2024, the event included a rare opportunity for attendees to spend time flying over Auckland in a C-130 Hercules, providing a distinctive environment for discussion and connection. Alongside conversations about the evolving security landscape and the growing role of cloud technologies, the day encouraged reflection on leadership, responsibility, and the people behind critical decisions.

A highlight of the event was a session with Willie Apiata, VC, New Zealand’s only living recipient of the Victoria Cross, who generously donated his time in support of Te Kiwi Maia. Apiata shared personal insights on leadership, resilience, and decision-making under pressure, reinforcing the idea that security, at its core, is about people supporting people, both in service and beyond it.

Nextro extends its sincere thanks to the Royal New Zealand Air Force, the RNZAF crew, and former Base Commander Auckland, Mike Cannon, for their support in making the event possible. Appreciation is also extended to Willie Apiata for his contribution, to all Nextro customers who attended, and to everyone involved in helping deliver an experience that supported such an important cause.

The Security in the Clouds event served as a reminder that industry events can be a platform for giving back. Nextro is proud to support Te Kiwi Maia and the vital role it plays in caring for those who have given so much in service to New Zealand.