Patrick Quesnel: Inside the $500M Bet on NZ’s Digital Future
In this must-watch episode of Digital Changemakers, Umbrellar CEO Ian Hassell is joined by one of New Zealand’s most influential cloud voices, Patrick Quesnel, affectionately known in Kiwi tech circles as “Mr. Azure.”
As a long-time Microsoft leader and the driving force behind the launch of NZ North, Patrick brings an unparalleled perspective on what it means to establish world-class cloud infrastructure in Aotearoa. This episode is a deep dive into the strategy, investment, sustainability, and cultural considerations that went into making NZ North a reality - and why it matters more than ever for Kiwi businesses.
Together, Ian and Patrick explore:
The four-year journey to build Microsoft’s carbon-free, water-free Azure region in Auckland
Why Māori data sovereignty played a pivotal role in design and customer partnerships
The frameworks every business needs to adopt AI safely, securely, and strategically
Real-world examples of how SMBs in New Zealand are already using AI and cloud to lift productivity
What the future holds as NZ steps into a new era of digital innovation and how we stack up globally
Whether you’re a business leader planning your cloud roadmap, a policymaker thinking about tech sovereignty, or just curious about what digital leadership looks like in 2025, this conversation delivers the clarity and inspiration you need.
NZ North isn’t just infrastructure - it’s a catalyst for change.
Watch the full episode and discover how New Zealand can lead in digital transformation, sustainably and securely.
