Hoki mai ki te Ūpoko-o-te-Ika-a-Māui
Return to the head of the fish of Māui
NZPIC26 will mark the return to the head of the fish of Māui -Hoki mai ki te Ūpoko-o-te-ika-a-Māui, with planners coming together in Te Whanganui-a-Tara I Wellington. This location is significant not just because of the political home of Aotearoa / NZ, its close proximity to Te Wai Pounamu (South Island), its stunning and dynamic taiao, but also because of the people of Wellington and the connection to Ngāti Toa Rangatira, Te Atiawa and Taranaki Whānui.
We recognise Conference’s return to Wellington, last held there in 2017. Coming back to Wellington is NZPI’s opportunity to further build its relationship with Tangata Whēnua continuing the kōrero, and hosting planners from around the motu. This is the inspiration for our conference theme of “returning to the head of the great fish of Māui.” The capital city looks forward to playing host and the planning is already underway.
Conference will be held at the Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre, a premier venue in the heart of the city.
Lock in the dates – 25 to 27 March 2026. More details to follow soon.
Framing the Conversation: Our 2026 Sub-themes
Our 2026 sub-themes provide a framework for exploring the pressing issues, opportunities, and challenges that shape the future of planning in Aotearoa. From policy reform to environmental resilience, these themes frame the conversations we must have—together.
He Aronga nui – Our Central Direction
He Tāone Whānui – Our Urban Environment
He Taiao – Our Natural World
He Ao Hurihuri – Our Evolving World
He Māngai nui – Our Voices
Organiser
The New Zealand Planning Institute is a professional body for planners, resource managers, urban designers and environmental practitioners in New Zealand.
Venue
50 Cable Street
Te Aro
Te Whanganui-a-Tara, Wellington 6011
