DECULT 2026 Cult Awareness Conference

FAQs

• What is Decult?

  Decult is a New Zealand charity raising cult awareness. More than 50,000 people in Aotearoa New Zealand are current or former members of cults, many living with lasting trauma. We reduce stigma, amplify survivors' voices, and build networks, events and support to reduce cultic harm — award-winning work recognised by the International Cultic Studies Association.

• Can I attend Decult 2026 online?

  Yes. All 50+ sessions are recorded and available to every ticket holder, online or in-person, to watch later. There's also an additional live programme on Zoom each day for America and Europe - around the clock and around the world.

• Are there concession / student ticket discounts for the conference?

  Yes, we want cost to be no barrier. Concession, group and student tickets are available for just $200, more than 50% off the standard ticket price. Concession pricing also applies to Community Services Card and SuperGold Card holders. Grab yours through the ticket link.

• Who are the keynote speakers for Decult 2026?

  Rachel Bernstein is a leading US therapist and educator who hosts the IndoctriNation podcast, with over 30 years helping cult leavers and their families. She headlines the programme in person — and is also holding an event in Wellington and professional trainings in Auckland after the conference.

  Dr Christine Marie is an author, survivor advocate, speaker and founder of Voices for Dignity. She holds a PhD in media psychology, featured in the Netflix docuseries "Trust Me: The False Prophet", and has helped survivors turn their trauma into triumph.

  Here's a link to our extended speaker list - https://decult.net/conference-2026/speakers/

• Who are the speakers for Decult 2026?

  Decult 2026 brings together 50+ local and international speakers - survivors, researchers, therapists, advocates, authors, academics and legal experts led by US cult experts Rachel Bernstein and Dr Christine Marie. This ticket page only lists a handful, so you're seeing just the tip of the iceberg!

  For the full, extended speaker lineup, with bios and the groups and topics each speaker covers, head to our website: decult.net/conference-2026/speakers.

• I've never been in a cult - is Decult 2026 for me?

  Absolutely. Come and cult-proof your life. Whether you're simply curious, worried about someone you love, or work with cult-affected people, you'll leave knowing how coercive control really works and which groups are active in NZ right now.

• What's included on the day?

  Full catering (lunch and morning/afternoon tea), plus mental health support, calm zones, a media room and security on site. This is a safe space, and everyone is welcome regardless of background, faith or belief.

• Is there an official conference dinner?

  Yes, our Saturday Night Conference Dinner on 24 October, a 3-course buffet with special guests and entertainment at the Victoria Free House, Christchurch. Vegan and GF options available. Spaces are limited, so book through the ticket link.

• Is there a hotel discount for delegates and attendees?

  Delegates and attendees get 15% off rooms at the Carnmore Hotel, a 5-minute walk from the venue. Use the code DECULT26 at check-out.

• Are there other events associated with the Decult conference?

  Yes, three companion events from the Olive Leaf Network:

  • A free Survivor Support Day in Christchurch (Mon 26 Oct, Labour Day) - Tickets

  • A cult awareness & recovery evening in Wellington with Rachel Bernstein (Wed 28 Oct) - Tickets

  • Professional development training in Auckland with Rachel Bernstein (Fri 30 & Sat 31 Oct) - Tickets

  Full details at https://nz.oliveleaf.network/events/