We’re all Connected now – ‘Connect’ 2024 Taituarā Conference success

We are thrilled to share that the Taituarā 2024 Conference, sponsored by Simpson Grierson, held last week (11th – 13th September) in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, was a resounding success. The conference theme, ‘Connect’, truly encapsulated our renewed Taituarā focus—fostering and nurturing meaningful connections to enhance our kaupapa and drive greater outcomes for our members and their communities.

With almost 300 enthusiastic delegates in attendance, the feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive. The sense of connection and collaboration was palpable throughout the event, reflecting the conference’s core purpose.

Day one highlights

The conference, hosted by the sensational Mike McRoberts, kicked off with a goosebump-inducing welcome from Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei. We extend our heartfelt thanks for their warm hospitality.

Keynote one: Precious Clark delivered an enlightening keynote on engaging directly with iwi, stressing the importance of understanding iwi needs and building cultural competence. Her insights emphasised the benefits of partnering with iwi to strengthen community ties. This keynote was proudly sponsored by Beca.

Keynote two: Shamubeel Eaqub delivered a thought-provoking presentation firmly linking New Zealand’s economic outlook to our ability to work together and represent the diverse realities of our communities through ‘true democracy’. He also spoke of the future generations’ attitude towards ‘change’ pushing us not only to do things differently, but to radically change what we’re trying to achieve in the bigger picture. Sponsored by Sheffield.

Keynote three: Waikato University demographer Tahu Kukutai provided a deep dive into “demographic paralysis”, urging us to plan for future demographic realities rather than current conditions. Her analysis of declining population trends and their impact on infrastructure was both insightful and crucial.

Immersive sessions:

• Session one: Planning for the future – RMA Reform
  Ministry for the Environment (MfE) highlighted the significant changes ahead in the resource management space. MfE shared the work they are doing at pace to deliver a second RM amendment bill, 7 new national directions, and amendments to 14 existing ones – with consultation set to hit the ground in early 2025. Sponsored by Marsh.

• Session two: How Auckland Council brings the diverse voices of the community to decision makers and decision-making
  Auckland Council’s community engagement programme impressed everyone with its comprehensive approach to including diverse voices in decision-making.

• Session three: Waste nothing: Auckland Councils waste to landfill goal
  This session from Auckland Council offered a look into their ambitious waste management strategies.

Beca conference dinner: The ‘Connect’ 2024 Taituarā Conference dinner, sponsored by Beca, went down swimmingly at the stunning Maritime Room on Auckland’s wharf. Delegates were treated to delicious food, vibrant music, and great company to boot.

Day two highlights

Minister of Local Government address: We were honored to hear from Minister Simeon Brown, who provided valuable insights into upcoming changes to the local government portfolio. His willingness to engage with delegates and address tough questions was much appreciated.

Keynote four: Abbas Nazari’s inspiring story of escaping Afghanistan and rebuilding his life in New Zealand offered a powerful perspective on the refugee experience of migrating to new communities, and the resilience it demands.

Keynote five: Sinead Boucher, owner and editor of Stuff, talked about the opportunity-value of leveraging media to help with community engagement. She urged the room to reach out to Stuff journalists to generate productive community discussion. Sponsored by PwC.

Q&A session: Sir Graham Henry
Sir Graham Henry chatted candidly with our host Mike McRoberts about his leadership journey coaching the All Blacks, and his thoughts on what makes a great coach and team. Sponsored by Civic Financial Services.

Immersive sessions:

• Session four: Common ground – Practical tools to find common ground with people who don’t look, think, sound or behave like you
  Jehan Casinader’s session on finding common ground demonstrated practical tools for connecting with people across differences, fostering understanding and trust.

• Session five: From theory to practice – Using AI to get things done
  This exciting session emphasised the never-ending possibilities and opportunities to use AI in the work we do.

• Session six: Regional deals – Collaborating across boundaries
  The discussion on Regional Deals highlighted the importance of collaborating across boundaries and preparing for cross-boundary negotiations, whether or not formal deals are pursued.

Thank you to our sponsors

We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors whose support made this event possible:

• Kauri Sponsors: Simpson Grierson and Beca

• Tōtara Sponsors: Civic Financial Services, Datacom, PwC, and Sheffield

• Kōwhai Sponsors: GHD and Marsh

Thank you to everyone who participated, contributed, exhibited, and supported the Taituarā 2024 Conference. Your engagement and enthusiasm were the heart of this year’s event. We look forward to continuing to build on the connections and insights gained as we work together towards a brighter future for our community.

Our 2025 Conference will take place in Ōtautahi Christchurch on 3-5 September 2025. Save the date!