Simpson Grierson has advised King Country Trust, an energy trust representing approximately 10,000 beneficiaries across the King Country region, on the sale of its remaining 24.98% shareholding in King Country Energy Limited to Contact Energy Limited.

The transaction, which was announced in February 2026 and completed in April 2026, marks an important milestone for the Trust as it transitions from direct ownership of generation assets to a more diversified investment model, while retaining a long‑term interest in New Zealand’s energy sector.

King Country Energy owns five hydropower stations across the King Country and Horowhenua regions. The investment has long been central to the Trust’s origins, having been established to deliver enduring benefits to the local community.

Following completion, the Trust now holds a diversified investment portfolio and a significant shareholding in Contact Energy, positioning it to continue supporting its beneficiaries and the wider King Country community into the future.

Simpson Grierson advised the Trust on all aspects of the transaction, supporting the Trustees through the review process and the negotiation and completion of the share sale. The firm’s integrated corporate, trust and tax expertise was critical to delivering a successful outcome for the Trust.

The Simpson Grierson team was led by Beth Reed, Corporate Senior Associate and Hugh Lindo, Partner in Corporate, supported by Andrew Matthews, Corporate Partner, Barney Cumberland, Tax Partner, and Andrew Priestley, Tax Senior Associate.