NZPI Conference 2019

The 2019 New Zealand Planning Institute (NZPI) conference, Weaving the Strands, looks at pressing issues such as climate change, natural resources, settlements, and the future of planning.

Conference themes have been considered from the perspectives of leadership, integration and collaboration, Māori and indigenous planning, technology and science, and culture. Top New Zealand and international speakers will share their best practice experiences.

More than 500 delegates are expected to attend, including industry leaders, iwi, resource managers, urban designers, scientists, environmental advocates and representatives from local and central government.

Speakers at the four-day event include Environment Minister David Parker, former State Legislator and Secretary of Vermont Agency of Transportation Sue Minter (United States), Maori Development and Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta, Waikato University Demography Professor Tahu Kukutai, Director General of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme Kosi Latu, and renowned designer and sustainability champion David Trubridge. Leading actor and broadcaster Toi Iti is MC.

The 2019 conference will feature additional break-out events:
• April 2: The Papa Pounamu Hui is a signature event held at the start of each NZPI annual conference. Since the formation of a Māori Special Interest Group within NZPI, the Hui has become a key event for delegates and speakers to discuss topical issues and advancement in Māori planning practice.
• April 2: The Emerging Planners Congress is touted as the ‘pre-eminent annual professional development event’, organised by and for emerging planners in New Zealand.
• April 2: The Elected Representatives Workshop is targeted towards councillors and community board members – specifically, the role they play in leading the development of planning policy.

The conference culminates with a Gala Dinner, which will feature the NZPI award presentations hosted by stand-up comedian Michele A’Court.

NZPI has held annual conferences since 1964. The 2019 conference will be held at the Napier Conference Centre and Napier Municipal Theatre from 2-5 April.