Firth NZILA Wānanga 2026

Planning for the 2026 Firth NZILA Wānanga is well underway, and it’s starting to take shape.

We’re building a programme that reflects where the profession is heading, grounded in place, responsive to change, and focused on what comes next.

More to come soon, including theme, speakers, and programme details.

Dates and venues

We’ll be bringing members together in Ōtautahi Christchurch for two days of connection, learning, and professional kōrero.

• President’s Function: 4 November, Chateau on the Park
• Firth NZILA Wānanga: 5–6 November, Majestic on Durham
• Resene NZILA Awards: 5 November, One NZ Stadium at Te Kaha

Save the dates and start planning ahead. We’re looking forward to bringing the profession together in this place.

 
What we're building

Over the past few months, we’ve been listening closely to what members want from this space.

A wānanga that feels optimistic and forward-looking.
One that engages with the big issues shaping practice.
One that creates space for connection, exchange, and shared learning.
And one that is grounded in Aotearoa, in whenua, community, and mātauranga.

That kōrero is actively shaping the programme, from the conversations we’re curating through to the people we’re bringing into the room.

Theme development

We’re currently developing the conference theme, building on the ideas and feedback shared through the “have your say” survey and recent Te Tau a Nuku wānanga.

The theme is now well progressed and is informing the direction of the programme, speakers, and overall experience.

We’ll be sharing this soon.

Call for projects – Ōtautahi and beyond

We’re currently shaping the site visit programme and are looking for projects to include.

Ōtautahi Christchurch has seen a huge amount of change over the past decade. This is a chance to get into the city and experience that work firsthand, hearing directly from the people behind it.

We’re looking for projects within Ōtautahi and the wider Canterbury region that are accessible within the programme.

If you’ve got something to share, we’d encourage you to get in touch soon as we begin locking in the programme.

➡️ Read the full call for projects and find out how to get involved

Thank you

Thank you to Firth our naming rights sponsor.

The Institute acknowledges that the Awards programme is made possible through the generous support of our partners.

Further sponsorship and exhibition opportunities will be available shortly. Watch this space! Get in touch with events@nzila.co.nz to get on the list.