Matthew Horncastle eyes Williams Corporation IPO and future in politics

Williams Corporation managing director Matthew Horncastle is openly canvassing the idea of entering politics in the next decade. Photo / Supplied

Property developer Matthew Horncastle is sharpening his political voice as Williams Corporation prepares for a potential sharemarket listing, BusinessDesk reports.

Horncastle, the outspoken co‑founder and chief executive of Williams Corporation, says the company is targeting an initial public offering (IPO) and NZX listing in 2027, with plans for him to remain in charge for at least five years to provide continuity for investors.

Beyond that, he is openly canvassing the idea of entering politics in the next decade, arguing that rising government debt and regulation may eventually require “an adult to step in”.

While his views align with Act, Horncastle says he would run with National because that would be the only way to win. He says he hasn’t approached any political party yet.

“I do not want to run, but if the Government keeps getting bigger and keeps taking on debt and no adult steps in to implement what I believe are rational, sensible values, I will do it. And I’ll win.”

Williams Corporation is emerging from a bruising housing downturn that forced the business to scale back sharply after years of rapid growth.

Once among the country’s most prolific townhouse builders, the group cut staff, slowed development and managed a large pipeline of partly completed homes as interest rates rose and the market fell.

Horncastle says the business has stabilised, adjusted volumes to demand and improved efficiency, setting the stage for its next phase.

Meanwhile, Horncastle has dramatically increased his social media output, building a large audience by promoting a hard‑line libertarian worldview and attacking left‑leaning politics.

He says the goal is influence rather than attention, and that he wants to shape the direction of the country ahead of future elections, saying he is scared of a left bloc returning to power.

Read the full story here at BusinessDesk.

• Stay ahead with the latest market moves, corporate updates, and economic insights by subscribing to our Business newsletter – your essential weekly round-up of all the business news you need.