CONFERENCE 2026

28–29 July 2026 · Wellington

Connecting
for Change

A two-day conference bringing together community organisations, social sector leaders, and government representatives to share solutions and shape an equitable Aotearoa New Zealand.

Dates
28–29 July
Tuesday 9am – Wednesday 4pm NZST
Venue
Black & Gold Harbourside Function Venue
4 Taranaki Street, Te Aro
Wellington 6011
Hosted by
Community Networks Aotearoa &
NZ Council of Christian Social Services

Real Stories.
Real Solutions.

Increasing need in our communities has put the community sector under immense pressure. Connecting for Change is a timely opportunity to work together to make real progress.

The conference will connect members and organisations working in the social sector — sharing solutions, experiences, and innovations. It provides a collaborative space where those doing the mahi on the frontlines and those working on big-picture policies can kōrero together.

The programme will bring real stories and solutions to those able to implement change, and to find the common ground we all tread together.

Conference attendees connecting at a CNA event
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When
28–29 July 2026Tuesday 9am – Wednesday 4pm NZST
📍
Where
Black & Gold, Wellington4 Taranaki Street, Te Aro
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Evening Event
Network & NibblesTue 28 Jul, 5pm–6pm (included with full ticket)

Built for the Sector

This conference is for anyone working to create a more equitable and compassionate Aotearoa. Whether you're on the frontlines of service delivery or shaping national policy, your perspective matters here.

Community Organisations Social Service Providers NGOs & Not-for-Profits Government Representatives Christian Social Services Networks Regional Networks Policy Professionals Frontline Workers Iwi & Community Leaders

Two Days of Connection

🔔 Full speaker and workshop details coming soon — check back for updates.

Day One

Tuesday 28 July
9:00 AM

Welcome & Mihi Whakatau

Opening karakia and welcome to delegates

Opening
9:30 AM

Keynote Address

Setting the scene — the state of the social sector

Keynote
11:00 AM

Breakout Workshops

Parallel workshops across key themes

Workshop
1:00 PM

Lunch & Networking

Connect with peers over kai

2:00 PM

Panel Discussion

Frontline voices and policy perspectives

Panel
5:00 PM

Network & Nibbles 🥂

Included with full tickets. Standalone tickets $35

Social

Day Two

Wednesday 29 July
9:00 AM

Morning Welcome & Reflection

Opening karakia and recap of Day One

Opening
9:30 AM

Keynote — Innovation in Practice

Stories of change from across the motu

Keynote
11:00 AM

Breakout Workshops

Solutions-focused collaborative sessions

Workshop
1:00 PM

Lunch & Networking

Shared kai and connections

2:00 PM

Action Planning & Commitments

Turning conversations into collective action

Workshop
3:30 PM

Closing Session & Karakia

Conference close at 4:00pm

Closing
🔔

Speakers & Programme

Details will be announced soon. Check back for the full programme including speakers and workshops.

Network & Nibbles

Tuesday 28 July · 5:00pm – 6:00pm · Included with all full conference tickets

Get a Standalone Ticket — $35

About the Organisers

CNA
Community Networks Aotearoa

Community Networks Aotearoa is the 'Network of Networks', representing thousands of national, regional and local Not-for-Profit organisations across the motu. CNA provides resources and information to members and government, connecting the sector and amplifying community voices.

NZCCSS
NZ Council of Christian Social Services

The New Zealand Council of Christian Social Services represents six Christian networks made up of more than 100 organisations delivering community, health and social services throughout Aotearoa New Zealand — united in their mission to call forth a just and compassionate Aotearoa.

Black & Gold Harbourside

Black & Gold Harbourside Function Venue 4 Taranaki Street, Te Aro
Wellington 6011, New Zealand
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A short walk from Wellington Railway Station and central CBD hotels.

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Paid parking available nearby. Wellington is well-served by public transport.

✉️

Questions? Email [email protected]

Open in Google Maps
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4 Taranaki Street, Te Aro, Wellington

View on Google Maps →

Register for Connecting for Change

Secure your place at the conference bringing together the people shaping a more equitable Aotearoa. Spaces are limited.

💳 Prefer to pay by bank transfer? Select the "Invoice me" option at checkout.

Get Your Tickets →

Questions? Contact [email protected]