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    • 04 June 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM
    • Online meeting – Zoom
    Register

    Engagement, Events & Experience Learning Circle

    This Circle is for association professionals involved in communications, events, professional development planning, and managing the member journey — with a focus on practical engagement and experience across channels.

    Online meeting: This session will be delivered via Zoom. Registered attendees will receive the meeting link in their confirmation email and reminder communications prior to the event.

    About NZSAE Learning Circles

    NZSAE Learning Circles are small-group professional development sessions designed for those working in membership organisations. Each Circle focuses on a core domain of association management and creates a space to connect, learn, and share with others facing similar challenges.

    Sessions begin with a 30-minute speaker presentation (recorded), followed by an off-the-record conversation among participants to share ideas, experiences, and practical approaches.

    How this session works

    • 30-minute speaker presentation (recorded)
    • Facilitated peer kōrero (not recorded)
    • Practical, experience-led discussion
    • Designed for immediate, real-world application

    What we explore

    • Building your association’s brand voice
    • Communication strategies across channels
    • Conference and event design
    • Stakeholder and sponsor engagement
    • Professional development planning

    Featured Speaker

    Topic: Communication strategies across channels
    Speaker: To be confirmed

    Learning Circles rotation

    This Learning Circle is part of NZSAE’s fixed-topic fortnightly rotation, giving you the chance to explore every key area of association practice throughout the year:

    • Member Engagement – Recruitment, onboarding, retention, CX
    • Digital Tools & Technology – AI, CRM, analytics, data tools
    • Engagement, Events & Experience – Brand, communications, conferences, sponsorship, PD
    • Finance, Risk & Operations – Budgeting, compliance, systems, governance
    • Leadership & Strategy – Board dynamics, planning, staffing, sector positioning

    The rotation provides a broader perspective while allowing each Circle to dive deep into its own area of expertise.

    • 09 June 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM
    • HuiHui Parliamentary services
    Register

    Building Training Banner

    Building Training Programmes That Make Money and Deliver Member Value
    A practical half-day workshop for association professionals responsible for education, CPD, and events.
    9:00am – 1:30pm | Includes morning tea and lunch

    Too much association training is content-heavy, presentation-led, and delivers limited return. This practical workshop focuses on a better approach — designing training that creates real outcomes for members and contributes to sustainable income.

    What you’ll work on
    Bring a real training idea — you’ll work on it during the session.

    • Start with the change you want to see, not the content
    • Design training that members value and will pay for
    • Work backwards from outcomes to format and delivery
    • Use simple tools to define measurable success
    • Apply a practical design process you can reuse

    Who should attend
    This workshop is ideal for:

    • Association staff responsible for education, CPD, or professional development
    • Events and membership teams working with speakers or subject matter experts
    • Anyone designing training without a formal L&D background
    • Associations looking to strengthen training and grow non-dues revenue

    What you’ll walk away with
    By the end of the session, you will have:

    • A clearer view of what effective training looks like — and what to stop doing
    • A simple, repeatable design framework
    • Practical ways to improve engagement without increasing cost
    • Confidence in evaluating training beyond satisfaction surveys
    • A reworked training idea ready to deliver

    How it works
    This is a practical, interactive workshop. Expect:

    • Short inputs and practical application
    • Minimal slides and maximum participation
    • Real association examples
    • Structured discussion with peers facing similar challenges
    • Tools and templates provided

    Why this matters for associations
    Training is no longer just a member benefit — it is a core part of how associations create value and generate revenue.

    This session is designed to help associations move from simply running training to building programmes that work for members and for the organisation.

    Format: In-person workshop
    Time: 9:00am – 1:30pm, including morning tea and lunch
    Who should attend: Association professionals responsible for education, CPD, professional development, events, and membership engagement

    Maire Smith

    Maire Smith (Presenter)
    Learning Design Lead / Kaiārahi Hoahoa Ako, Synapsys NZ
    2025 NZATD L&D Consultant Award Winner

    Maire Smith is passionate about designing learning that creates real change. In 2025, she was recognised with the L&D Consultant Award from the New Zealand Association for Training and Development.

    She brings more than 25 years of experience in learning experience design, UX design, project management, and quality management, with work spanning the government, energy, and rural sectors.

    Maire’s award-winning approach focuses on helping learners apply new ideas and skills in practical ways back in the workplace.

    • 18 June 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM
    • Online meeting – Zoom
    Register

    Finance, Risk & Operations Learning Circle

    This Circle is for association professionals involved in Finance, Risk & Operations — with a focus on practical engagement and experience across channels.

    Online meeting: This session will be delivered via Zoom. Registered attendees will receive the meeting link in their confirmation email and reminder communications prior to the event.

    About NZSAE Learning Circles

    NZSAE Learning Circles are small-group professional development sessions designed for those working in membership organisations. Each Circle focuses on a core domain of association management and creates a space to connect, learn, and share with others facing similar challenges.

    Sessions begin with a 30-minute speaker presentation (recorded), followed by an off-the-record conversation among participants to share ideas, experiences, and practical approaches.

    How this session works

    • 30-minute speaker presentation (recorded)
    • Facilitated peer kōrero (not recorded)
    • Practical, experience-led discussion
    • Designed for immediate, real-world application

    What we explore

    • Building your association’s brand voice
    • Communication strategies across channels
    • Conference and event design
    • Stakeholder and sponsor engagement
    • Professional development planning

    Featured Speaker

    Topic: Communication strategies across channels
    Speaker: To be confirmed

    Learning Circles rotation

    This Learning Circle is part of NZSAE’s fixed-topic fortnightly rotation, giving you the chance to explore every key area of association practice throughout the year:

    • Member Engagement – Recruitment, onboarding, retention, CX
    • Digital Tools & Technology – AI, CRM, analytics, data tools
    • Engagement, Events & Experience – Brand, communications, conferences, sponsorship, PD
    • Finance, Risk & Operations – Budgeting, compliance, systems, governance
    • Leadership & Strategy – Board dynamics, planning, staffing, sector positioning

    The rotation provides a broader perspective while allowing each Circle to dive deep into its own area of expertise.

    • 23 June 2026
    • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • Huihui, Parliament - Wellington
    Register

    You’re invited to join NZSAE’s exclusive Leadership Exchange — an afternoon of insightful discussion and valuable networking designed specifically for senior association leaders.

    By attending, you’ll:

    • Gain fresh perspectives on industry trends and challenges
    • Network with peers and share practical best practice
    • Strengthen your professional network and build lasting relationships
    • Develop new strategies to move your association forward
    • Explore innovative approaches to complex organisational issues
    • Hear directly from experienced association leaders

    Don’t miss this opportunity to sharpen your leadership thinking and position your organisation for the year ahead.

    Exclusive to Executive Directors and CEOs

    Networking drinks will be available following the meeting.


    Not a NZSAE member?

    Join us now


    CAE Credits
    This event is offered as part of NZSAE’s CAE Approved Provider status and may qualify for 1 CAE credit toward your professional development requirements. The content aligns with the CAE exam outline under Member Stakeholder Engagement Management. Learn more at www.asaecenter.org/cae.

    • 25 June 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Online meeting – Zoom
    Register

    Associations across New Zealand are using a wide range of AMS and CRM platforms to manage membership, events, communications, finance, reporting, and engagement — but many are still facing the same frustrations, challenges, and questions.

    This NZSAE online discussion is designed as a practical peer conversation for association professionals to openly discuss the systems they use, what is working well, where challenges exist, and what they wish they had known earlier.

    Associations across New Zealand are using a wide range of AMS and CRM platforms to manage membership, events, communications, finance, reporting, and engagement — but many are still facing the same frustrations, challenges, and questions.

    This NZSAE online discussion is designed as a practical peer conversation for association professionals to openly discuss the systems they use, what is working well, where challenges exist, and what they wish they had known earlier.

    The session will begin with a facilitated whole-group discussion exploring:

    • the platforms currently being used across the sector
    • member engagement and renewals
    • integrations and reporting
    • websites and online portals
    • communications and automation
    • onboarding and user experience
    • frustrations, limitations, and lessons learned

    Following the initial discussion, participants will move into smaller peer breakout groups based on the systems they currently use. These smaller discussions will allow association professionals to connect directly with others using the same platform to share experiences, practical tips, workarounds, and insights.

    This is not a vendor presentation or sales session — it is a practical association-to-association conversation designed to support better decision-making and shared learning across the sector

    Session Format

    Part One — Sector Conversation (30 mins)
    A facilitated discussion exploring the systems currently being used across associations and the common opportunities and frustrations being experienced.

    Part Two — Peer System Groups (45 mins)
    Participants move into smaller peer groups based on the systems they currently use for more focused practical discussion.

    Part Three — Key Takeaways (15 mins)
    Groups return for a final shared discussion around common themes, insights, and practical learnings.

    The session will begin with a facilitated whole-group discussion exploring:

    • the platforms currently being used across the sector
    • member engagement and renewals
    • integrations and reporting
    • websites and online portals
    • communications and automation
    • onboarding and user experience
    • frustrations, limitations, and lessons learned

    Following the initial discussion, participants will move into smaller peer breakout groups based on the systems they currently use. These smaller discussions will allow association professionals to connect directly with others using the same platform to share experiences, practical tips, workarounds, and insights.


    • 30 June 2026
    • 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Venue to be confirmed – Auckland
    Register

    You’re invited to join NZSAE’s exclusive Leadership Exchange — an afternoon of insightful discussion and valuable networking designed specifically for senior association leaders.

    By attending, you’ll:

    • Gain fresh perspectives on industry trends and challenges
    • Network with peers and share practical best practice
    • Strengthen your professional network and build lasting relationships
    • Develop new strategies to move your association forward
    • Explore innovative approaches to complex organisational issues
    • Hear directly from experienced association leaders

    Don’t miss this opportunity to sharpen your leadership thinking and position your organisation for the year ahead.

    Exclusive to Executive Directors and CEOs

    a light lunch will be provided during the meeting.


    Not a NZSAE member?

    Join us now


    CAE Credits
    This event is offered as part of NZSAE’s CAE Approved Provider status and may qualify for 1 CAE credit toward your professional development requirements. The content aligns with the CAE exam outline under Member Stakeholder Engagement Management. Learn more at www.asaecenter.org/cae.

    • 02 July 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM
    • Online meeting – Zoom
    Register

    Leadership & Strategy Learning Circle

    This Circle is for association professionals involved in Leadership & Strategy — with a focus on practical engagement and experience across channels.

    Online meeting: This session will be delivered via Zoom. Registered attendees will receive the meeting link in their confirmation email and reminder communications prior to the event.

    About NZSAE Learning Circles

    NZSAE Learning Circles are small-group professional development sessions designed for those working in membership organisations. Each Circle focuses on a core domain of association management and creates a space to connect, learn, and share with others facing similar challenges.

    Sessions begin with a 30-minute speaker presentation (recorded), followed by an off-the-record conversation among participants to share ideas, experiences, and practical approaches.

    How this session works

    • 30-minute speaker presentation (recorded)
    • Facilitated peer kōrero (not recorded)
    • Practical, experience-led discussion
    • Designed for immediate, real-world application

    What we explore

    • Building your association’s brand voice
    • Communication strategies across channels
    • Conference and event design
    • Stakeholder and sponsor engagement
    • Professional development planning

    Featured Speaker

    Topic: Communication strategies across channels
    Speaker: To be confirmed

    Learning Circles rotation

    This Learning Circle is part of NZSAE’s fixed-topic fortnightly rotation, giving you the chance to explore every key area of association practice throughout the year:

    • Member Engagement – Recruitment, onboarding, retention, CX
    • Digital Tools & Technology – AI, CRM, analytics, data tools
    • Engagement, Events & Experience – Brand, communications, conferences, sponsorship, PD
    • Finance, Risk & Operations – Budgeting, compliance, systems, governance
    • Leadership & Strategy – Board dynamics, planning, staffing, sector positioning

    The rotation provides a broader perspective while allowing each Circle to dive deep into its own area of expertise.

    • 07 July 2026
    • 11:30 AM - 1:45 PM
    • Legislative Council, Huihui, Parliament - Wellington
    Register

    Mark Matariki with the Association Community
    Join us this July for our annual Matariki Lunch — a time to gather with association colleagues, pause together, and acknowledge the Māori New Year through connection, reflection, and shared conversation.

    Matariki invites us to look back on the year that has passed and consider what lies ahead. For associations, it’s a fitting moment to reflect on purpose, people, and the role our organisations play in strengthening communities across New Zealand.

    Guest Speaker: To be announced
    Our keynote speaker will provide timely insight relevant to association leaders, offering perspective to help frame the year ahead within a changing national and global context.

    What to Expect:

    • A welcoming moment that recognises the significance of Matariki.
    • A keynote address offering insight and reflection for association leadership.
    • Time to reconnect with peers from across the association sector.
    • Shared kai in a relaxed and respectful setting.

    This lunch is an opportunity to step away from the pace of work, acknowledge the year that has been, and reconnect with the people who understand the realities of association life.

    Spaces are limited. Early registration is recommended.

    Register now and join us for a meaningful Matariki gathering with the association community.

    CAE Credits
    This event is offered as part of NZSAE’s CAE Approved Provider status and may qualify for 1 CAE credit toward your professional development requirements. The content aligns with the CAE exam content outline under Member Stakeholder Engagement Management . Learn more at www.asaecenter.org/cae.

    • 16 July 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM
    • Online meeting – Zoom
    Register

    Member Engagement Learning Circle

    This Circle is for association professionals involved in Member Engagement — with a focus on practical engagement and experience across channels.

    Online meeting: This session will be delivered via Zoom. Registered attendees will receive the meeting link in their confirmation email and reminder communications prior to the event.

    About NZSAE Learning Circles

    NZSAE Learning Circles are small-group professional development sessions designed for those working in membership organisations. Each Circle focuses on a core domain of association management and creates a space to connect, learn, and share with others facing similar challenges.

    Sessions begin with a 30-minute speaker presentation (recorded), followed by an off-the-record conversation among participants to share ideas, experiences, and practical approaches.

    How this session works

    • 30-minute speaker presentation (recorded)
    • Facilitated peer kōrero (not recorded)
    • Practical, experience-led discussion
    • Designed for immediate, real-world application

    What we explore

    • Building your association’s brand voice
    • Communication strategies across channels
    • Conference and event design
    • Stakeholder and sponsor engagement
    • Professional development planning

    Featured Speaker

    Topic: Communication strategies across channels
    Speaker: To be confirmed

    Learning Circles rotation

    This Learning Circle is part of NZSAE’s fixed-topic fortnightly rotation, giving you the chance to explore every key area of association practice throughout the year:

    • Member Engagement – Recruitment, onboarding, retention, CX
    • Digital Tools & Technology – AI, CRM, analytics, data tools
    • Engagement, Events & Experience – Brand, communications, conferences, sponsorship, PD
    • Finance, Risk & Operations – Budgeting, compliance, systems, governance
    • Leadership & Strategy – Board dynamics, planning, staffing, sector positioning

    The rotation provides a broader perspective while allowing each Circle to dive deep into its own area of expertise.

    • 22 July 2026
    • 11:30 AM - 1:45 PM
    • Aotea Centre
    Register

    Mark Matariki with the Association Community
    Join us this July for our annual Matariki Lunch — a time to gather with association colleagues, pause together, and acknowledge the Māori New Year through connection, reflection, and shared conversation.

    Matariki invites us to look back on the year that has passed and consider what lies ahead. For associations, it’s a fitting moment to reflect on purpose, people, and the role our organisations play in strengthening communities across New Zealand.

    Guest Speaker: To be announced
    Our keynote speaker will provide timely insight relevant to association leaders, offering perspective to help frame the year ahead within a changing national and global context.

    What to Expect:

    • A welcoming moment that recognises the significance of Matariki.
    • A keynote address offering insight and reflection for association leadership.
    • Time to reconnect with peers from across the association sector.
    • Shared kai in a relaxed and respectful setting.

    This lunch is an opportunity to step away from the pace of work, acknowledge the year that has been, and reconnect with the people who understand the realities of association life.

    Spaces are limited. Early registration is recommended.

    Register now and join us for a meaningful Matariki gathering with the association community.

    CAE Credits
    This event is offered as part of NZSAE’s CAE Approved Provider status and may qualify for 1 CAE credit toward your professional development requirements. The content aligns with the CAE exam content outline under Member Stakeholder Engagement Management . Learn more at www.asaecenter.org/cae.

    • 30 July 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM
    • Online meeting – Zoom
    Register

    Digital Tools & Technology Learning Circle

    This Circle is for association professionals involved in Digital Tools & Technology — with a focus on practical engagement and experience across channels.

    Online meeting: This session will be delivered via Zoom. Registered attendees will receive the meeting link in their confirmation email and reminder communications prior to the event.

    About NZSAE Learning Circles

    NZSAE Learning Circles are small-group professional development sessions designed for those working in membership organisations. Each Circle focuses on a core domain of association management and creates a space to connect, learn, and share with others facing similar challenges.

    Sessions begin with a 30-minute speaker presentation (recorded), followed by an off-the-record conversation among participants to share ideas, experiences, and practical approaches.

    How this session works

    • 30-minute speaker presentation (recorded)
    • Facilitated peer kōrero (not recorded)
    • Practical, experience-led discussion
    • Designed for immediate, real-world application

    What we explore

    • Building your association’s brand voice
    • Communication strategies across channels
    • Conference and event design
    • Stakeholder and sponsor engagement
    • Professional development planning

    Featured Speaker

    Topic: Communication strategies across channels
    Speaker: To be confirmed

    Learning Circles rotation

    This Learning Circle is part of NZSAE’s fixed-topic fortnightly rotation, giving you the chance to explore every key area of association practice throughout the year:

    • Member Engagement – Recruitment, onboarding, retention, CX
    • Digital Tools & Technology – AI, CRM, analytics, data tools
    • Engagement, Events & Experience – Brand, communications, conferences, sponsorship, PD
    • Finance, Risk & Operations – Budgeting, compliance, systems, governance
    • Leadership & Strategy – Board dynamics, planning, staffing, sector positioning

    The rotation provides a broader perspective while allowing each Circle to dive deep into its own area of expertise.

    • 03 August 2026
    • 8:00 AM
    • 04 August 2026
    • 4:30 PM
    • Lower Hutt Events Centre
    Register

    Associations Matter Conference & Exhibition 2026

    Register for the Associations Matter Conference & Exhibition 2026

    The Associations Matter Conference & Exhibition is New Zealand’s national gathering for association professionals — bringing together Chief Executives, Executive Directors, senior leaders and operational teams from membership organisations across the country.

    Held on 3–4 August 2026 at the Lower Hutt Events Centre, the conference provides two days of practical insight, peer learning and meaningful connections with colleagues across the association sector.

    This year’s programme is built around the theme Beyond 2030, exploring the future of associations — including governance, member engagement, financial sustainability, digital transformation and leadership capability.

    What your registration includes

    • Full access to the two-day conference programme
    • Entry to the conference exhibition and networking breaks
    • Morning tea, lunch and refreshments
    • Conference materials and delegate networking opportunities
    • Ticket to the Conference & Awards Dinner

    We look forward to welcoming you to Lower Hutt for two days of learning, discussion and connection with association leaders from across New Zealand.

    • 03 August 2026
    • 8:00 AM
    • 04 August 2026
    • 4:30 PM
    • Lower Hutt Events Centre
    Registration is closed

    Exhibition Opportunities


    All exhibition booths for the NZSAE Associations Matter Conference are now sold. For other sponsorship or partnership opportunities, please contact Brett

    • 03 August 2026
    • 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM
    • Lower Hutt Events Centre
    Register


    If your organisation has entered the NZSAE Awards, has been named as a finalist, or you have team members who would like to attend the Awards Dinner without registering for the full conference, a limited number of dinner-only tickets are available.

    Please note that the Awards Dinner is already included for all full conference delegates and does not need to be purchased separately.

    Dinner-only tickets are available exclusively to association organisations and their representatives. These tickets are not available to suppliers or general corporate attendees.

    • 13 August 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM
    • Online meeting – Zoom
    Register

    Engagement, Events & Experience Learning Circle

    This Circle is for association professionals involved in communications, events, professional development planning, and managing the member journey — with a focus on practical engagement and experience across channels.

    Online meeting: This session will be delivered via Zoom. Registered attendees will receive the meeting link in their confirmation email and reminder communications prior to the event.

    About NZSAE Learning Circles

    NZSAE Learning Circles are small-group professional development sessions designed for those working in membership organisations. Each Circle focuses on a core domain of association management and creates a space to connect, learn, and share with others facing similar challenges.

    Sessions begin with a 30-minute speaker presentation (recorded), followed by an off-the-record conversation among participants to share ideas, experiences, and practical approaches.

    How this session works

    • 30-minute speaker presentation (recorded)
    • Facilitated peer kōrero (not recorded)
    • Practical, experience-led discussion
    • Designed for immediate, real-world application

    What we explore

    • Building your association’s brand voice
    • Communication strategies across channels
    • Conference and event design
    • Stakeholder and sponsor engagement
    • Professional development planning

    Featured Speaker

    Topic: Communication strategies across channels
    Speaker: To be confirmed

    Learning Circles rotation

    This Learning Circle is part of NZSAE’s fixed-topic fortnightly rotation, giving you the chance to explore every key area of association practice throughout the year:

    • Member Engagement – Recruitment, onboarding, retention, CX
    • Digital Tools & Technology – AI, CRM, analytics, data tools
    • Engagement, Events & Experience – Brand, communications, conferences, sponsorship, PD
    • Finance, Risk & Operations – Budgeting, compliance, systems, governance
    • Leadership & Strategy – Board dynamics, planning, staffing, sector positioning

    The rotation provides a broader perspective while allowing each Circle to dive deep into its own area of expertise.

    • 25 August 2026
    • 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
    • Waihorotiu Room 1 - AOTEA CENTRE
    Register

    Governance for Associations Workshop is a focused, in-person workshop for Association Chairs, Presidents, CEOs, and Executive Directors to examine what effective governance looks like in today’s environment.

    Good governance remains one of the most critical responsibilities of any association. Yet in practice, it is often where the greatest tension, uncertainty, and risk can arise. This workshop is designed to be practical, grounded, and discussion-based — not theory for theory’s sake.

    The session will explore the core governance realities leaders face, including:

    • The respective roles of the Chair, Board, and CEO
    • Strategic alignment between governance and operations
    • Delegation, authority, and accountability
    • Risk oversight and compliance responsibilities
    • Common governance tensions — and how to manage them
    • Board performance, succession, and evaluation

    Participants will engage in open, peer-level conversation, sharing real experiences and approaches from across the association sector.

    Format: In-person workshop
    Who should attend: Association Chairs/Presidents, CEOs, and Executive Directors

    • 27 August 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM
    • Online meeting – Zoom
    Register

    Finance, Risk & Operations Learning Circle

    This Circle is for association professionals involved in Finance, Risk & Operations — with a focus on practical engagement and experience across channels.

    Online meeting: This session will be delivered via Zoom. Registered attendees will receive the meeting link in their confirmation email and reminder communications prior to the event.

    About NZSAE Learning Circles

    NZSAE Learning Circles are small-group professional development sessions designed for those working in membership organisations. Each Circle focuses on a core domain of association management and creates a space to connect, learn, and share with others facing similar challenges.

    Sessions begin with a 30-minute speaker presentation (recorded), followed by an off-the-record conversation among participants to share ideas, experiences, and practical approaches.

    How this session works

    • 30-minute speaker presentation (recorded)
    • Facilitated peer kōrero (not recorded)
    • Practical, experience-led discussion
    • Designed for immediate, real-world application

    What we explore

    • Building your association’s brand voice
    • Communication strategies across channels
    • Conference and event design
    • Stakeholder and sponsor engagement
    • Professional development planning

    Featured Speaker

    Topic: Communication strategies across channels
    Speaker: To be confirmed

    Learning Circles rotation

    This Learning Circle is part of NZSAE’s fixed-topic fortnightly rotation, giving you the chance to explore every key area of association practice throughout the year:

    • Member Engagement – Recruitment, onboarding, retention, CX
    • Digital Tools & Technology – AI, CRM, analytics, data tools
    • Engagement, Events & Experience – Brand, communications, conferences, sponsorship, PD
    • Finance, Risk & Operations – Budgeting, compliance, systems, governance
    • Leadership & Strategy – Board dynamics, planning, staffing, sector positioning

    The rotation provides a broader perspective while allowing each Circle to dive deep into its own area of expertise.

    • 10 September 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM
    • Online meeting – Zoom
    Register

    Leadership & Strategy Learning Circle

    This Circle is for association professionals involved in Leadership & Strategy — with a focus on practical engagement and experience across channels.

    Online meeting: This session will be delivered via Zoom. Registered attendees will receive the meeting link in their confirmation email and reminder communications prior to the event.

    About NZSAE Learning Circles

    NZSAE Learning Circles are small-group professional development sessions designed for those working in membership organisations. Each Circle focuses on a core domain of association management and creates a space to connect, learn, and share with others facing similar challenges.

    Sessions begin with a 30-minute speaker presentation (recorded), followed by an off-the-record conversation among participants to share ideas, experiences, and practical approaches.

    How this session works

    • 30-minute speaker presentation (recorded)
    • Facilitated peer kōrero (not recorded)
    • Practical, experience-led discussion
    • Designed for immediate, real-world application

    What we explore

    • Building your association’s brand voice
    • Communication strategies across channels
    • Conference and event design
    • Stakeholder and sponsor engagement
    • Professional development planning

    Featured Speaker

    Topic: Communication strategies across channels
    Speaker: To be confirmed

    Learning Circles rotation

    This Learning Circle is part of NZSAE’s fixed-topic fortnightly rotation, giving you the chance to explore every key area of association practice throughout the year:

    • Member Engagement – Recruitment, onboarding, retention, CX
    • Digital Tools & Technology – AI, CRM, analytics, data tools
    • Engagement, Events & Experience – Brand, communications, conferences, sponsorship, PD
    • Finance, Risk & Operations – Budgeting, compliance, systems, governance
    • Leadership & Strategy – Board dynamics, planning, staffing, sector positioning

    The rotation provides a broader perspective while allowing each Circle to dive deep into its own area of expertise.

    • 13 October 2026
    • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • Huihui, Parliament - Wellington
    Register

    You’re invited to join NZSAE’s exclusive Leadership Exchange — an afternoon of insightful discussion and valuable networking designed specifically for senior association leaders.

    By attending, you’ll:

    • Gain fresh perspectives on industry trends and challenges
    • Network with peers and share practical best practice
    • Strengthen your professional network and build lasting relationships
    • Develop new strategies to move your association forward
    • Explore innovative approaches to complex organisational issues
    • Hear directly from experienced association leaders

    Don’t miss this opportunity to sharpen your leadership thinking and position your organisation for the year ahead.

    Exclusive to Executive Directors and CEOs

    Networking drinks will be available following the meeting.


    Not a NZSAE member?

    Join us now


    CAE Credits
    This event is offered as part of NZSAE’s CAE Approved Provider status and may qualify for 1 CAE credit toward your professional development requirements. The content aligns with the CAE exam outline under Member Stakeholder Engagement Management. Learn more at www.asaecenter.org/cae.

    • 20 October 2026
    • 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Venue to be confirmed – Auckland
    Register

    You’re invited to join NZSAE’s exclusive Leadership Exchange — an afternoon of insightful discussion and valuable networking designed specifically for senior association leaders.

    By attending, you’ll:

    • Gain fresh perspectives on industry trends and challenges
    • Network with peers and share practical best practice
    • Strengthen your professional network and build lasting relationships
    • Develop new strategies to move your association forward
    • Explore innovative approaches to complex organisational issues
    • Hear directly from experienced association leaders

    Don’t miss this opportunity to sharpen your leadership thinking and position your organisation for the year ahead.

    Exclusive to Executive Directors and CEOs

    a light lunch will be provided during the meeting.


    Not a NZSAE member?

    Join us now


    CAE Credits
    This event is offered as part of NZSAE’s CAE Approved Provider status and may qualify for 1 CAE credit toward your professional development requirements. The content aligns with the CAE exam outline under Member Stakeholder Engagement Management. Learn more at www.asaecenter.org/cae.

    • 24 November 2026
    • 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Wellington: Huihui - Parliament
    Register

    End of Year Function

    Our End of Year Function is a moment to pause and properly close out the year together. Hosted as a festive lunch, it brings association professionals together to reflect on the year that’s been, acknowledge shared challenges and successes, and step back from the day-to-day before the summer break.

    The lunch will feature a keynote speaker offering perspective and insight relevant to association leadership, alongside good conversation and time to reconnect with peers. It’s intentionally unhurried — a chance to strengthen relationships and finish the year on a thoughtful, positive note.

    • 01 December 2026
    • 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Viaduct Events Centre
    Register

    End of Year Function

    Our End of Year Function is a moment to pause and properly close out the year together. Hosted as a festive lunch, it brings association professionals together to reflect on the year that’s been, acknowledge shared challenges and successes, and step back from the day-to-day before the summer break.

    The lunch will feature a keynote speaker offering perspective and insight relevant to association leadership, alongside good conversation and time to reconnect with peers. It’s intentionally unhurried — a chance to strengthen relationships and finish the year on a thoughtful, positive note.

    • 23 February 2027
    • 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
    • Takina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre

    Exhibition Opportunities

    Association Marketplace 2027

    Association Marketplace 2027

    Tools, Tech & Solutions for Associations

    Association Marketplace 2027 is a focused one-day event designed specifically for association and membership professionals across New Zealand.

    Bringing together association leaders, suppliers, destinations, venues, technology providers, and specialist service companies, the event is built around practical conversations, new ideas, and real solutions that help associations strengthen membership, operations, events, governance, engagement, and growth.

    Rather than a traditional large-scale trade show, Association Marketplace is designed to be more personal, practical, and outcomes-focused — creating meaningful connections between association executives and trusted suppliers who understand the sector.

    What to Expect

    • A focused exhibition marketplace
    • Practical education sessions and supplier showcases
    • New technology and membership solutions
    • One-on-one conversations and networking opportunities
    • Ideas and tools associations can immediately apply within their organisations

    Whether you work in membership, events, governance, communications, operations, finance, or leadership, Association Marketplace is designed to connect you with the people, products, and ideas shaping the future of associations in New Zealand.


    Supplier & Exhibitor Opportunities

    Association Marketplace 2027 provides suppliers with the opportunity to connect directly with association decision-makers from across New Zealand.

    Exhibitor spaces are intentionally limited to support strong engagement, meaningful conversations, and quality outcomes for both suppliers and delegates.

    Exhibiting Includes

    • Exhibition booth space
    • Direct access to association executives and senior leaders
    • Networking opportunities throughout the event
    • Inclusion in event marketing and exhibitor promotions
    • Opportunity to showcase practical tools, services, and solutions

    Download the Tradeshow Prospectus

    Download the Association Marketplace 2027 exhibitor and sponsorship prospectus here .

    Reserve Your Booth

    A limited number of booths are now available for early reservation.

    To secure your place, suppliers can reserve their booth with a $500 + GST deposit, with the remaining balance payable closer to the event in 2027.

    For sponsorship or partnership opportunities, please contact Brett .

    • 15 May 2030
    • 4:30 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Auckland
    • 89
    Register

    Website integration meeting to make sure we are using the right technology going forward.


New Zealand Society of Association Executives Inc (NZSAE)

Te Hapori o nga Kaiwhakahaere Hononga o Aotearoa
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New Zealand 



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