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Welcome to Events in Aotearoa!
This is your go-to resource for tech, innovation, and startup events happening across Aotearoa New Zealand. We've gathered everything in one convenient spot to make it easy for you to stay in the loop. Just a heads up—details may change, and while we do our best to keep everything updated, we recommend clicking the "Tickets link" column for the most current info.

📅 Got an event to share? Add it here: Event Submission Form 😊
🙏 Using this spreadsheet? Please credit Pauli Sosa for curating it.
💌 Want updates straight to your inbox? Sign up for Startup Digest New Zealand and get what’s on every Tuesday.
Questions? Reach out to Pauli at paulainessosa@gmail.com.

Thank you ✨
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Date and timeRegionEvent titleBlurb (keep it short and sweet)In person/
Online/
Hybrid
Organiser detailsVenueTickets linkNotes
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1-3 MayTe Whanganui-a-Tara/WellingtonVESA Hackathon 2026 This inclusive three-day hackathon invites students of all skill levels to prototype software, gain mentorship, and build portfolio-ready projects.In PersonVESA x VEC x VUWWITThe Atom/Foyer, Pipitea Campushttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdHwvEBQcrVDTgmBytSfIQVew1sfEwrSZB6TWehbSwxdbzJyQ/viewform
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Sat 2nd MayTe Whanganui-a-Tara/WellingtonTEDxVUW 2026What happens when we stand at the edge of change? TEDxVUW returns to Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington with this year’s theme: The Threshold. Across three phases, Echoes of the Past, The Brink, and Crossing Over, we bring together speakers from tech, science, and culture to explore the moments that shape what comes next.In PersonVictoria University of WellingtonMemorial Theatre, VUW Kelburn Campushttps://sendd.store/tedxvuw2026
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Mon 4th May, 5:30pmOtautahi/ChristchurchThe AI Tension — Implementation vs Existential RiskThis event explores both sides of that question, bringing together two perspectives that rarely share the same stage. Dr Elsamari Botha examines multi-dimensional AI literacy frameworks, and Hazel Shanks shares 'The Doom Thesis' from the Yudkowsky book. Drinks, demos, and practical takeaways included.In PersonCaelan HuntressEPIC Innovation, 100 Manchester St, Christchurchhttps://www.meetup.com/christchurch-ai/events/313217491/
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Tue 5th May, 9amTāmaki Makaurau/AucklandAI and Creativity SummitNow in its third year, our unique event explores the use of AI and its impact on creative industries in Aotearoa and across the world. We’re bringing global conversations into a local context, creating space for nuance and practical insight. From storytelling in a technology-driven world to misinformation and creative rights, our summit is designed to spark meaningful conversations about what comes next.In PersonAI Forum New ZealandTe Puna Creative Hub, 8/14 Henderson Valley Road, Hendersonhttps://aicreativeindustries.nz/
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Tue 5th May, 10amAotearoa New ZealandDINZ Virtual Coffee ChatAn informal monthly drop in/coffee chat for the Digital Identity NZ community. The session runs for 45 minutes to allow more time for discussion and ideas exchange.OnlineDINZOnlinehttps://zoom.us/meeting/register/ht1kA0qxT1uOJAMiqdVSlw#/registration
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Tue 5th May, 10amTāhuna/QueenstownElectrify Aotearoa Pre-Event - QueenstownThis event is all about connecting wāhine founders and building stronger local communities to support each other and your startups.In PersonMinistry of AwesomeQueenstown Resort College (QRC) - 7 Coronation Drive, Queenstown 9348https://events.humanitix.com/electrify-aotearoa-pre-event-queenstown
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Tue 5th May, 12pmWaikato/HamiltonSoda Power Lunch with AJ TillsJoin us for lunch to hear from AJ Tills. AJ Tills is a marketing and growth leader with 15 years leading brands and teams at high-growth technology companies in almost every part of the world.In PersonSodaEvent Room 1, Gallagher Hub, Wintec City Campus, Hamilton Centralhttps://events.humanitix.com/soda-power-lunch-with-aj-tills
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Wed 6th May, 8amTe Whanganui-a-Tara/WellingtonAI and Creativity SummitA Summit designed to ask better questions

AI is reshaping how creative work is made, shared, discovered, and valued. The AI and Creativity Summit brings global perspectives into an Aotearoa context. The goal is not to rush to answers, but to prompt curious minds to explore what is changing and what matters most.

Across two cities, we will look at real creative practice, new opportunities, and the tensions that come with speed. This includes truth and trust, copyright and attribution, social license, and the future of creative craft.

Curiosity is the starting point. Responsibility is the standard.
In PersonAI Forum New ZealandDatacom Wellington
55 Featherston Street, Pipitea, Wellington
https://aicreativeindustries.nz/
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Wed 6th May, 8:30amTāmaki Makaurau/AucklandIgnite'26 Growth Summit by IcehouseJoin us for New Zealand's premier growth summit as we bring together the country's sharpest business minds to tackle the challenge of our time: economic rebuild.

We're gathering the operators, disruptors, and champions who've actually done it - scaled from garage startups to market dominance, transformed entire industries, and built champion mindsets that win on the world stage.

This is about taking the lessons from those who've navigated past challenges, understanding where we are now, and mapping the future we're building together.
In PersonIcehouseViaduct Events Centre, 171 Halsey Street, Aucklandhttps://events.humanitix.com/ignite-26-growth-summit-by-icehouse
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Wed 6th May, 12pmWhangareiElectrify Aotearoa Pre-Event - NorthlandThis event is all about connecting wāhine founders and building stronger local communities to support each other and your startups.In PersonMoAThe Orchard Business and Event Hub, Whangāreihttps://events.humanitix.com/electrify-aotearoa-pre-event-northland
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Thur 7th May, 8amKapitiKapiti Startup & Innovation NetworkKapiti innovators get together to share startup stories, exchange ideas, and build a local support network for entrepreneurs and business growth. In PersonKapiti Startup & Innovation Network180 Degrees Cafe & Bistrohttps://www.meetup.com/kapiti-startup-innovate-network-meetup/
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Thur 7th May, 8:30amOtautahi/ChristchurchDifferent Minds, Better Business: A Workshop for Startups and SMEsoin us for a high-impact one-day workshop on Thursday 7 May 2026 in Christchurch, designed for startups and SMEs. Gain practical legal and strategic insights from industry leaders, explore how diverse perspectives drive innovation and better business outcomes, and connect with peers and founders from a range of backgrounds.In PersonDentons & Ministry of AwesomeJohn Britten Building - 69 Creyke Road, Ilam, Christchurch 8041, New Zealandhttps://events.humanitix.com/diversity-as-advantage-a-workshop-for-startups-and-smes
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Thur 7th May, 4:30pmTe Whanganui-a-Tara/WellingtonNZ Games Festival - Career Conversations*FOR STUDENTS NZ Games Festival and Level Up welcome you to join us for a event of conversation about building a career in game development! We understand that getting into game development can seem daunting, so we put together an evening of free talks to help you get started! Featuring experienced game developers from across Aotearoa, our career conversations will cover things like creating a great resume, making the most of your time as a student, and career paths into the games industry you might not have considered.In PersonNZ Games Festival and WellingtonNZThe Gods 29 Courtenay Place, Te Aro, Wellington 6011https://nzgamesfest.com/career-conversations/
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Thur 7th May, 5pmOtautahi/ChristchurchThriving in a high growth startupA behind-the-scenes look at one of Aotearoa’s fastest-scaling startups. Hear from a world-class team with experience from Rocket Lab to Apple on how they are reimagining the $1T auto parts industry using foundational AI. Whether you are already in tech or exploring the ecosystem, this is a rare chance to get honest insights into growing a career within a high-growth, frontier-tech environment.In PersonIcehouse Ventures x PartlyPARTLY HQ, Christchurchhttps://www.icehouseventures.co.nz/landing-pages/careers-of-the-future-partly-edition
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Thu 7th May, 5:30pmTe Papa-i-Oea/Palmerston NorthManawatū Innovation ShowcaseThe Manawatū Innovation Showcase is an evening celebrating local ideas and the people behind them who are building with scalable ambition.

Discover bold start-ups, emerging technologies and breakthrough innovations being built right here in Manawatū. From early-stage ventures to growth-focused companies, this is your chance to see what’s taking shape across our innovation ecosystem.
In PersonThe FactoryPalmy Conference + Function Centre
354 Main Street, Palmerston North
https://events.humanitix.com/manawatu-innovation-showcase-2026
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Fri 8th May, 9amAotearoa New ZealandFix Confusing Dashboards Presented by Excel in BI NZCome and join to learn with Ramon, presented by Excel in BI. In these live sessions, we explore practical topics across Data, AI, and Automation, always focused on real business application. If you are a curious professional who wants to better understand how data can improve your work, your decisions, and your career, these sessions are for you.More data does not mean more clarity. In this session, we explore why dashboards overwhelm executives and how to design reports that answer real business questions.Each session is practical, focused, and designed to deliver real clarity in just one hour. Join us live and take the next step in strengthening your skills in Data, AI, and Automation with Excel in BI.OnlineExcel in BIOnlinehttps://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/a2891dcc-5776-4e23-9c26-7c47ab0c5258@d4003d39-e709-4fc5-90bf-d1fc9e75702e/registration
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Tue 12th May, 1pmAotearoa New ZealandGEN NZ Motu Connect with Qiulae Wong (Q) leader of the Opportunities PartyHear from Q about TOP's policies and initiatives and how they will impact the startup ecosystem across Aotearoa if they reach their ambitous 5% goal to enter parliamentOnlineGlobal Entrepreneurship Network Zoom: https://www.google.com/url?q=https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86569672224?pwd%3DTklGYXBFeVlkUThqNGRrYUNOTjFSQT09&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw2lGf_K5Wk_KryDgj9nHN5Whttps://forms.gle/cmBbk2JiWZ6nwL837
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Tue 12th May, 5pmTāmaki Makaurau/AucklandHer Migrant Spirit: Launch EventThis intimate evening offers a powerhouse panel of inspiring migrant entrepreneurs sharing their journeys from ambition to reality. The event includes a guided breathwork exercise led by one of the panellists, alongside dedicated time for networking and real conversation with visionaries shaping the community.In PersonGirl in MotionAcademyEX, 99 Khyber Pass Road, Grafton, Auckland https://events.humanitix.com/her-migrant-spirit-launch-event
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Tue 12th May, 5pmTe Whanganui-a-Tara/WellingtonWiFi Pentesting: A Sneak-Peek with Toby ReynoldsIn this session, Toby will dive into offensive WiFi security testing, covering common attack techniques, real‑world scenarios, and how attackers approach wireless environments. The talk will include practical labs and a live demonstration, giving attendees the opportunity to follow along and see techniques in action.In PersonSec for DevsInternetNZ, Level 13/18 Willis Street, Wellingtonhttps://www.meetup.com/sec-for-devs/events/313337611/
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Wed 13th May, 5pmTāmaki Makaurau/AucklandTechBabesNZ Women in Technology EventJoin a FUN meetup where women in tech share stories, tips, and good vibes to boost your career, make connections, and network!In PersonTechBabesNZThe Lula Inn, 149 Quay Street, Aucklandhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/techbabesnz-women-in-technology-event-tickets-1987107623393
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Wed 13th May, 5:30pmTe Whanganui-a-Tara/WellingtonNetTalks Te Whanganui-a-TaraAn evening of fast-paced kōrero exploring the ideas, challenges, and possibilities shaping our digital lives.
The format: Six speakers. Six minutes each. Six unique perspectives on tech and the Internet.
In PersonInternetNZtwo/fiftyseven, Level 2/57 Willis Streethttps://events.humanitix.com/nettalks-te-whanganui-a-tara
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Wed 13th May, 5:30pmTāmaki Makaurau/AucklandTechStep Mock Interview WorkshopThe Mock Interview Workshop is a structured career development initiative designed to support people from under-represented communities to successfully enter or progress within digital and technology careers in New Zealand.In PersonBA Career MeetupAUT WG Building, WG801 and WG 808https://www.meetup.com/ba-career-meetup-group/events/314621820/
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Wed 13th May, 6pmTaranakiPowerUp Accelerator Showcase Night 2026Venture Taranaki’s PowerUp Accelerator Showcase Night takes place on Wednesday 13 May at The Devon Hotel in New Plymouth and via livestream, featuring five diverse startups spanning wellness, logistics, and digital payments pitching live to investors and business leaders following a 10-week intensive programme.In PersonVenture TaranakiThe Devon Hotel - New PlymouthNew Plymouth, Taranakihttps://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/powerup-accelerator-showcase-night-2026-tickets-1985099144980?aff=oddtdtcreator
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Thur 14th May, 5:30pm Te Whanganui-a-Tara/WellingtonAI for Good - WellingtonAn evening of real talk about AI. Not the hype cycle version - the version where practitioners, founders, and leaders share what's actually happening in their work, their teams, and their communities.In PersonGEN AI WellingtonThe ATOM - Victoria University of Wellington Entrepreneur Hubhttps://luma.com/v2efw4pp
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15th may 2026Te Whanganui-a-Tara/WellingtonNZ Tech RallyInclusive spaces for Aotearoa’s tech community to celebrate, connect and grow together.

NZ Tech Rally unites the whole software delivery team: engineers, testers, product folks, data minds, tech leaders, and founders. We share real stories and practical local solutions for people, organisations, and communities in Aotearoa New Zealand.

We are one of NZ’s most loved grassroots tech events. After our hugely successful 2025 conference, we are back in 2026 to celebrate, connect, and grow alongside our community.
HybridNZ Tech RallyTĀKINA, 50 Cable Street, Wellington, New Zealandhttps://nztechrally.nz/
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15th may 2026Tāmaki Makaurau/AucklandAuckland | The 2026 Great New Zealand AI RoadshowA full-day, masterclass for business leaders, people managers, and working professionals — covering everything from governance and data readiness to live tool demos and real NZ case stories. In PersonNew Zealand AIShed 10, Aucklandhttps://www.newzealand.ai/roadshow
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Fri 15th May, 9amAotearoa New ZealandAI Forum Webinar Series: Governance, Risk & ComplianceThis session focuses on practical legal, ethical, and contractual guardrails for using AI in AEC, helping organisations manage risk as AI becomes embedded in everyday project delivery.OnlineAI ForumNZOnlinehttps://events.humanitix.com/ai-forum-webinar-series-governance-risk-and-compliance-with-frith-paula-and-matt
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Fri 15th May, 5pmTāmaki Makaurau/AucklandMaking LinkedIn Work for YouA practical workshop to help you build a LinkedIn profile that gets you noticed and opens the door to new opportunities.In PersonShe SharpAUT, WZ Building 5067706, WZ Building, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealandhttps://events.humanitix.com/making-linkedin-work-for-you-with-stuart-little-presented-by-she-sharp-and-aut
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18 - 24 May 2026Tāmaki Makaurau/AucklandTechweekTechweek is Aotearoa New Zealand’s national festival of innovation — a week‑long celebration of the people and ideas using technology to create a better tomorrow.

In 2026, Techweek is once again bringing the tech ecosystem together. From founders and researchers to students and global visitors, it’s about connection, inspiration, and showcasing how Kiwi innovation is shaping the future.
HybridNZTechAucklandhttps://techweek.co.nz/
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18-21 MayAotearoa New ZealandFirstCut
ROADSHOW
First Cut is Icehouse Ventures' community for young startup founders and operators, and this year, we're taking it on the road.

Across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin, we're bringing together young founders and operators to share stories, make connections, and fuel aspirations.

Whether you're in the thick of your first venture, brainstorming your next big idea, or just trying to figure out what building a startup looks like, this is for you.

Expect honest conversations and practical insights from founders and operators at different stages of the journey.
In PersonIcehouse Ventures✔️ Dunedin - Mon 18th, 6:30pm - Maggie's Cafe
✔️ Christchurch - Tue 19th, 5:30pm - Appetise HQ
✔️ Wellington - Wed 20th, 5:30pm - Trade Me HQ
✔️ Auckland - Thu 21st, 5:30pm - Icehouse Ventures
https://www.icehouseventures.co.nz/landing-pages/first-cut-roadshow-2026
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Mon 18th May, 11amTāhuna/QueenstownQueenstown Women in Tech - 'Women Who Lead' - Techweek 2026Three women. Three remarkable careers. One honest conversation about what leadership in tech actually looks like.

This Techweek, Queenstown Women in Tech is hosting an intimate panel lunch with three of the most accomplished women in New Zealand's technology sector - and they are not here to give you the highlight reel.

If you've ever wondered whether you're ready for the next step (or how other women figured it out) this conversation is for you.

They will be sharing the real stories; the career inflection points, the decisions that changed the trajectory, the networks that opened doors, and the moments they backed themselves before they felt ready.
In PersonQueenstown Women in TechCrowne Plaza Queenstown by IHG, 93 Beach Street, Queenstownhttps://events.humanitix.com/queenstown-women-in-tech-women-who-lead-techweek-2026
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Mon 18th May, 5pmTe Whanganui-a-Tara/WellingtonWāhine Fuelled Tech Inspiring Stories Techweek EditionWe're thrilled to announce our flagship event: an inspiring speaker session featuring a lineup of incredible Wāhine in Tech, who will share their personal journeys and insights from across the industry.In PersonWāhine Fuelled TechCreative HQ, 7 Dixon Street, Wellington 6011https://events.humanitix.com/inspiring-stories-techweek-edition-hkhsjsbq
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Mon 18th May, 6:30pmAotearoa New ZealandManaging AI Agents: The Next High-Value Skill SetThis free intermediate-level presentation is for proficient AI operators, team leaders, and decision-makers who want to understand the next layer of AI capability. A variety of AI agentic toolsets will be reviewed, including Claude Cowork, Copilot Agents, OpenAI's ChatGPT, and OpenClaw. This presentation is part of TechWeekNZ.OnlineCaelan HuntressZoomhttps://ai-coaching.academy/events/managing-ai-agents-the-next-high-value-skill-set
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Tue 19th May, 7:30amTāmaki Makaurau/AucklandAuckland Bootstrapper's BreakfastBootstrappers’ Breakfast is a relaxed, founder-focused morning series where entrepreneurs come together to share experiences, swap ideas, and learn from each other over good coffee and fresh croissants ☕🥐

Each session features a guest founder who sparks an honest, practical conversation, with insights you can apply straight away in your startup journey.
In PersonGridAKLGridAKL, 101 Pakenham St Westhttps://events.humanitix.com/auckland-bootstrapper-s-breakfast-may-2026
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Wed 20th May, 12pmAotearoa New ZealandAI Governance & The Future of Work in New ZealandAcross Aotearoa, organisations are moving fast—from experimentation to real-world AI deployment. Productivity gains are clear. Investment is accelerating. But governance hasn’t kept up. Most leaders are now responsible for AI outcomes without clear frameworks, shared language, or confidence in how to manage the risks. This event is part of TechWeekNZOnlineCaelan HuntressZoomhttps://ai-coaching.academy/events/ai-governance-the-future-of-work-in-new-zealand
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Wed 20th May, 12pmTāmaki Makaurau/AucklandISACA * SheLeadsTech Presents: Building Practical AI Governance TogetherAI is moving fast. Governance needs to move smarter and ......more inclusively. You do not need to have all the answers. You just need a space to ask, discuss, and work through what this means for you. Join us for this interactive lunchtime session with Dr.Pasan Thilakasiri which focuses on the real situations professionals across organisations are already facing - unapproved AI use, unclear ownership, missing controls, and pressure to provide assurance in a fast moving space. You’ll be equipped with hands-on governance playbook to help bring shadow AI under control. Delivered by ISACA Auckland Chapter and SheLeadsTech, this session highlights how diverse leadership and perspectives drive stronger, more effective AI oversight. Why Attend Understand the risks of “shadow AI” in organisations Learn practical governance controls for AI usage Explore the role of diversity in strengthening governance outcomes Network with industry professionals This event is part of Tech Week26 Auckland. In PersonISACA * SheLeadsTechGrant Thornton New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealandhttps://events.humanitix.com/isaca-sheleadstech-presents-building-practical-ai-governance-together
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Wed 20th May, 6pmTāmaki Makaurau/AucklandMigrants in Tech Auckland #21Join to hear from successful migrant entrepreneurs from around the world who have built thriving start ups here in Auckland.

As part of Techweek 26, this event is co-hosted with Auckland Startup Week to share stories from inspiring migrants who have not only built their lives in Auckland but have also gone on to start successful businesses of their own. This is a chance to celebrate innovation, resilience, and the important role migrants play in shaping Auckland’s tech ecosystem.
In PersonMigrants in Tech AucklandGridAKL, 101 Pakenham St Westhttps://events.humanitix.com/migrants-in-tech-auckland-21
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Wed 20th May, 6pmTāmaki Makaurau/AucklandInnovation in Energy – A Technology ShowcaseResearchers and engineers will showcase innovations with real-world potential—from advanced power systems and energy storage to digital tools that optimise energy infrastructure. The event also celebrates a group of Applied Doctoral Scholarships in Energy—PhD projects co-designed with industry to solve real energy challenges.In PersonUoAEngineering Building Atrium, Level 4, 20 Symonds Street, University of Aucklandhttps://events.humanitix.com/innovation-in-energy-a-technology-showcase
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Thu 21st May, 8amKapitiKapiti Startup & Innovation NetworkKapiti innovators get together to share startup stories, exchange ideas, and build a local support network for entrepreneurs and business growth. In PersonKapiti Startup & Innovation Network180 Degrees Cafe & Bistrohttps://www.meetup.com/kapiti-startup-innovate-network-meetup/
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Thu 21st May, 9amOtautahi/ChristchurchEPIC AI ConferenceThe EPIC AI conference is a day of workshops, community conversation, presentations, and leadership dialogue at EPIC Innovation. This event is part of TechWeekNZ, Aotearoa New Zealand’s national festival of tech and innovation.In PersonCaelan HuntressEPIC Innovation, 100 Manchester St, Christchurchhttps://christchurch-ai.com/epic-ai-conference
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Thu 21st May, 12pmOtautahi/ChristchurchMinistry of Awesome: Coffee & Jam - #371Ministry of Awesome's Coffee and Jam: Christchurch’s Longest-Running Founder Meetup! In PersonMinistry of AwesomeEPIC Christchurch - 100 Manchester Street https://events.humanitix.com/ministry-of-awesome-coffee-and-jam-371
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Thu 21st May, 2pmTe Whanganui-a-Tara/WellingtonMovac Growth Jam Epic Fails EditionFailure is the best teacher, and few founding teams have tasted success without tons of it. That’s why our theme this year will be “Epic Fails”. Jammers will share their most epic fails in an authentic, accessible and useful way. Hopefully, these lessons will resonate and inspire you to aim high despite the eternal possibility of failure.In PersonMovacCreative HQ, Level 1, 7 Dixon Street, Wellington https://events.humanitix.com/movac-growth-jam-epic-fails-edition
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Thu 21st May, 5pmTāmaki Makaurau/AucklandOutset Connect: Founders & ExpertsConnecting founders in our ecosystem with other founders and experts for networking, knowledge sharing, and strategic collaboration.In PersonOutset Ventures24 Balfour Rd, Parnellhttps://events.humanitix.com/outset-connect-founders-and-expertsThis event has a registration of interest process so that we can ensure deep tech founders are in the room with each other.
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Thu 21st May, 5pmTe Whanganui-a-Tara/WellingtonThe Unseen Hand: A Cybersecurity Adventure for FoundersMost founders know security matters. Few feel ready when something actually goes wrong - when the email looks slightly off, when a team member raises a concern at 9pm on a Friday, when an investor asks a question you didn't expect. This two-hour experience takes a different approach. You'll step into an immersive storytelling scenario set in a world far removed from our own - no servers, no software, no jargon. Within that world, you and a small group of fellow Wellington founders will face a challenge that demands the same instincts a real security incident would: spotting risk early, making calls under pressure, knowing when to escalate, and communicating clearly when it counts. Then we come back to the real world. Together, we'll debrief what happened, unpack the moments that mattered, and translate those instincts directly into your startup — your product, your team, your next conversation with a customer or investor. The story is the vehicle. The learning is yours to keep. What you'll take away: Sharper instincts for noticing risk before it becomes a problem Confidence to lead on security rather than react to it A shared language and a stronger network of founders to lean on when real challenges arise Who it's for: Founders of tech companies starting to think seriously about how security impacts their app, product, or service — and who'd rather build the right instincts now than learn them the hard way.In PersonTree & FernThe Atom—Te Kahu o Te Ao innovation space, 23 Lambton Quay, Pipitea, Wellington 6011, New Zealand https://events.humanitix.com/a-cybersecurity-adventure-for-founders
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Fri 22nd MayTāmaki Makaurau/AucklandNZ Hi-Tech Awards 2026Join to celebrate the people and organisations shaping Aotearoa’s tech future. The Gala Dinner brings the sector together for an unforgettable night honouring the 2026 finalists, winners, and Flying Kiwis.In PersonNZ Hi-Tech AwardsSpark Arena, Aucklandhttps://www.hitech.org.nz/events/gala-dinner/
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Fri 22nd May, 8:30amTāmaki Makaurau/AucklandMarketers Day AucklandMarketers Day is a one-day, festival-style experience designed fun and educational for marketers at every stage of their career—from students to fresh grads to fractional CMOs. We have four panel discussions on the day with speakers who'll share practical tips, what works for them and what doesn't, and ideas that you can take into your own work. We explore what it's really like to work in marketing in New Zealand today.In PersonThe Marketing Club AU/NZ (contacts: Chanel Clark & Stu Lees))The Garden, 44 George Street, Mt. Edenhttps://tmc.zohobackstage.com.au/MarketersDayAuckland#/
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Fri 22nd May, 9amAotearoa New ZealandAdvanced Excel That Saves Hours Presented by Excel in BI NZCome and join to learn with Ramon, presented by Excel in BI. In these live sessions, we explore practical topics across Data, AI, and Automation, always focused on real business application. If you are a curious professional who wants to better understand how data can improve your work, your decisions, and your career, these sessions are for you.Excel remains one of the most powerful tools in business. In this session, you will learn advanced but practical functions that reduce manual work and improve efficiency.Each session is practical, focused, and designed to deliver real clarity in just one hour. Join us live and take the next step in strengthening your skills in Data, AI, and Automation with Excel in BI.OnlineExcel in BIOnlinehttps://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/dd2c8a30-840e-4813-b56d-5df0251aa13d@d4003d39-e709-4fc5-90bf-d1fc9e75702e/registration
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Fri 22nd May, 1pmAotearoa New ZealandSeeds Impact Conference 2026A half day of online panel discussions on a variety of topics, featuring many former Seeds podcast guests and friends.

The aim of the conference is to focus on impact and initiatives which show meaningful change across a variety of areas, such as Housing, Education, Entrepreneurship, and more.
OnlineParry Field LawyersOnlinehttps://events.humanitix.com/impact-conference-2026
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Sat 23rd May, 10amOtautahi/ChristchurchAI Roadmap WorkshopThe AI Roadmap Workshop is a hands-on strategy session designed to help professionals identify the highest-value opportunities for using AI in their work — and leave with a clear plan for implementation. In just two hours, you’ll map your workflows, identify where AI can save time or improve decision-making, and prioritize a short list of AI experiments you can begin immediately.In PersonCaelan HuntressEPIC Innovation, 100 Manchester St, Christchurchhttps://events.humanitix.com/ai-roadmap-workshop-0526
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Wed 27th MayAotearoa New ZealandCryptocurrency NZ MeetupJoin one of Cryptocurrency NZ's 12 crypto Meetups across Aotearoa New Zealand; where you can find other Kiwis active in the currency wars of the 21st century: Wellington, Palmerston North, Invercargill, Hamilton, Rotorua, Dunedin, Hawke's Bay, Nelson, Auckland, Christchurch, Tauranga, Queenstown.In PersonCryptocurrency NZ MeetupMultiple locations across Aotearoa New Zealandhttps://cryptocurrency.org.nz/meetups
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Wed 27th May, 8:30amTāmaki Makaurau/AucklandThe Journey of Scaling with Caffeine & BNZScaling isn’t linear. Hear the highs, lows and lessons behind Tracksuit’s journey from startup to global success alongside James Hurman.In PersonCaffeineLevel 18, BNZ Tower, 80 Queen Street, Auckland Cityhttps://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/the-journey-of-scaling-with-caffeine-bnz-tickets-1987800326286
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Wed 27th May, 10amAotearoa New ZealandAANZ Expert Session Legal Essentials for Early-Stage CompaniesGetting the Foundations Right: Legal Essentials for Early-Stage Companies

Join Edwin Lim and Sarah Weersing of Hudson Gavin Martin for an engaging webinar designed to help start-ups and early-stage businesses get their legal foundations right from day one.​

This online 90 minute session will cover key corporate and commercial issues every founder should understand
OnlineAANZOnlinehttps://app.glueup.com/event/aanz-expert-session-legal-essentials-for-early-stage-companies-175087/
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Wed 27th May, 1pmAotearoa New ZealandThird Sphere of EmpathyIn one hour, you will work through a quick 2026 updated refresher on customer understanding theory, then build one section of a Customer Journey Map grounded in what you actually know. You will leave with a clearer picture of your customer and an AI tool provided free to help you get there faster.OnlineMinistry of AwesomeOnlinehttps://events.humanitix.com/third-sphere-of-empathy
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Wed 27th May, 5:30pmNgāmotu/New PlymouthAI to MVP: supercharging your startup journeyFrom sharpening customer discovery to rapidly testing ideas, AI is transforming how startups move from concept to reality. This event is designed for founders who want to move faster, smarter, and with greater confidence.In PersonDOSOManifold Coworking Space, 49 Currie Street, New Plymouthhttps://www.doso.nz/events/meetup-ai-for-startups
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Thu 28th May, 8amTāmaki Makaurau/AucklandZoholics AucklandZoholics returns in 2026 with a fresh format and a full day of learning, connection, and hands-on product experiences. Join our customers, partners, and product experts as we share ideas, explore new ways of working, and help you get more out of Zoho.In PersonZohoGrand Millennium Aucklandhttps://events.zoho.com/ZoholicsAuckland2026#/
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Thu 28th May, 10amAotearoa New ZealandThe Female Founder AdvantageWomen are building ambitious, high-growth companies across every corner of the startup ecosystem — but the journey doesn’t always look the same. Join Marian Johnson, Yaela Raber, and Lane Litz for a candid pre-Electrify Aotearoa conversation on leadership, growth, funding, resilience, and navigating startup culture.OnlineMinistry of AwesomeOnlinehttps://events.humanitix.com/the-female-founder-advantage
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