Two days of insight, inspiration, and connection.

Calling all community services professionals and volunteers! Don’t miss Waimakariri’s inaugural 2-day conference designed to strengthen and support the incredible work happening across our community.

With a line-up of sought-after speakers, engaging sessions, and networking opportunities, Stronger Communities is a must-attend conference for anyone working or volunteering in the sector.

CONFERENCE PROGRAMME

Wednesday 25th June

9.30–10am Cuppa
10 – 11am	Panel - Collaborating to reduce family harm Ilene Te Whatu (ISR), Inspector Peter Cooper (NZ Police), Eden Brooks (Williams McKenzie Lawyers), Georgia Allen (Lotus Law)
11am Break
11.15am – 12.30pm	Increasing Community Connections to Prevent Suicide Annette Beautrais (Senior Advisor Suicide Prevention, Health NZ)
12.30pm Lunch
1.30–3pm	Self-Care and Preventing Burnout Denise Quinlan (Institute of Wellbeing and Resilience)

EVENING SESSION
7pm - 8:30pm Matt Brown (Founder "She Is Not Your Rehab, Author, TEDx speaker)
Venue open from 6.30pm, supper on offer.
More information below

Thursday 26th June

9.30am Cuppa
10-11am	Addressing Alcohol and Drug Harm and reducing stigma Charmaine Diver, (AOD Clinician, Odyssey House Trust & Toolkit Training & Support)
11am Break
11.15- 12.30pm	Sensory Issues and Neurodiversity Michael Hempseed (Author – Being a True Hero)
12.30-1pm	Breathing Workshop Catherine George (The Lung mechanic)

Your conference ticket includes an evening with She Is Not Your Rehab founder, author and TEDx speaker, Matt Brown. Supper included.

25 - 26 June | John Knox Church, Rangiora
$100 for employed staff | free for volunteers
Any questions? Contact community@wmk.govt.nz

Hope to see you there!

We would like to inform all attendees that photographs and videos will be taken throughout the conference. These images and recordings may be used for promotional purposes, including on Waimakariri District Council's website, social media, and other marketing materials.

If you have any concerns or prefer not to be included in these photos or videos, please contact community@wmk.govt.nz

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Waimakariri Stronger Communities Conference 2025

Choose your tickets

Community Service Employee ticket

Community Service Volunteer ticket