This popular conference is designed by principals for rural and teaching principals with a mix of inspirational keynotes, practical workshops, networking and hauora opportunities.
This year’s theme: Opening Gateways, Expanding Horizons: Rural Leadership Shaping Tomorrow.
A positive and future-focused conference that positions rural principals not as isolated, but as visionary leaders opening doors for students, whānau, and communities to thrive.
Conference Programme
The organising committee is creating an engaging conference programme that will include:
- Keynote speakers - to uplift you as fearless leaders in changing times
- Workshops - across a wide range of topics to adorn you as leaders with feathers to soar
- Networking - opportunity to talanoa and kōrero
- Haerenga - get out and about to see what Tāmaki Makaurau has to offer
- Conference Dinner - in central Auckland, not to be missed! Good food, great company and a chance to show your moves on the dance floor.
A full programme will be provided in December, but an outline is provided below. Please contact events@nzei.org.nz if you have any questions regarding the programme or registration.
Tuesday 26th May 2026
4pm – 6.30pm | Conference Registration
4pm – 6.30pm | Pre-Conference mix and mingle
Wednesday 27th May 2026
From 8.30am | Mihi Whakatau, Haukainga Kōrero
From 11.30am | Tāmaki Makaurau Haerenga
From 5pm | Sponsors drinks & Mystery Speaker
Thursday 28th May 2026
8.30am - 4.30pm | Keynote Speaker and Workshops
6.30pm | Conference Dinner
Friday 29th May 2026
From 8.30am | Keynote Speaker
1pm | Poroporoaki
Conference Registration
Registrations are now open. Register here
Meet the Principal Organisers
Adam Tamariki - Te Paina School (U2)
Ally Gibbs - Mulberry Grove School (U1)
Haydon Brill - Puni School (U4+)
Josie Redmond - Pukekawa School (U2)
Phoebe Todd - NZEI Te Riu Roa Principals' Council U1&2 Rep
Stephanie Madden - NZEI Te Riu Roa Principals' Council Chair
Conference Venue and Accommodation
Conference Venue:
Jean Batten Ballroom
Holiday Inn, Auckland Airport
2 Ascot Road
Airport Oaks
Auckland 2150
Accommodation:
Holiday Inn, Auckland Airport
Accommodation Booking Link. Group Code: NZE
Rooms start at $245 per night* (breakfast included)
*Subject to availability
If you have any queries regarding your accommodation booking, please contact: Groups.HIAucklandAirport@ihg.com
Explore Tāmaki Makaurau
Central Auckland | Harbour / Hauraki Gulf | Manukau |
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