Connecting Aotearoa Summit 2026

We’re excited to announce the Connecting Aotearoa Summit 2026—the premier event for shaping New Zealand’s digital future. We launched the expanded event last year to ensure the issues we cover are relevant and pertinent to the nation’s most pressing challenges. In 2026, this is more critical than ever, as the general election looms. We need to make digital connectivity and equity front-and-centre of political debate, economic prosperity, and social wellbeing. The decisions made this year will lock in New Zealand’s digital trajectory for the rest of the decade.

This year, we are proposing that the Summit tackles the crucial question: “How do we get everyone connected to the best broadband service that meets their needs to live and thrive in our digital future by 2030?”

This ambitious national goal demands immediate, coordinated action from policymakers, industry, and community leaders. Join us as we delve into the critical issues surrounding digital connectivity in Aotearoa, directly influencing the next government’s mandate. At this early stage, we are proposing that our sub-themes include:

Policy & Political Mandate: Developing the definitive roadmap for universal connectivity ahead of the 2026 election, securing cross-party commitment to the 2030 target.

Rural Connectivity: Bridging the digital divide and ensuring resilient, future-proof access for all, regardless of location.

Affordability & Digital Equity: Examining the total cost barriers (device, data, skills) to internet access and advancing practical solutions for true inclusion.

Future-Proofing Connectivity: Looking ahead to emerging technologies and innovative, sustainable solutions that will make the 2030 target a reality.

These are all critical to us meeting our vision that by 2030, everyone in Aotearoa is connected to the best broadband service that meets their needs. This prospectus outlines how you can partner with this Summit to influence the national agenda and help us address the question around how we connect all of Aotearoa. The Minister for Media and Communications, Hon Paul Goldsmith, is confirmed to present the closing Ministerial address.

If you are in town the day before, why not join us at the InternetNZ NetTalks on Tuesday 12 May from 5:30 - 8pm. This is an evening of short talks, with big impact. Speakers include Aleisha Amohia, Chris Cormack, Jodi Anderson, Katie Brown and Lani Evans. Also joining them as one of the speakers is our own Craig Young speaking on the role of connectivity in shaping Aotearoa’s digital future. You can register for this event at the same time as registering for the Summit.

And if you are looking for accommodation at discounted rates, check our our website here for a range of options.

Platinum Partner for 2026: