Ōtautahi Christchurch expects an influx of entrepreneurs, techies, aerospace innovators and digital disruptors from 23-28 September as the city hosts three of Aotearoa’s leading innovation events.
If technology and innovation are at the fore of your work, study, or passions, set course for Innovate Ōtautahi – a week of inspiration and connection as Christchurch hosts the New Zealand Aerospace Summit 2024, the Canterbury Tech Summit 2024, and the Innovation Expo 2024.
Following on last year’s success of the inaugural Innovate Ōtautahi week, this year’s three events dial up the offering of exhibitions, international speakers, NZ thought-leaders, panel sessions, and Q&As alongside the opportunity to network with industry leaders.
Christchurch has been recognised in the top 300 cities globally for its successful innovation ecosystem, and the city is poised and ready to show off its growing tech, innovation, and aerospace sectors during the highly anticipated week.
All three events will be hosted in the world-class Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, located in the heart of the city centre. A smorgasbord of dining and retail options await you after a blissful walk along the Ōtākaro Avon River, and a stone’s throw from the innovation and health precincts for those wishing to make connections with local businesses.
Event Rundown
The New Zealand Aerospace Summit 2024
Event dates: 23-24 September
In 2023 New Zealand launched the fourth most rockets in the world behind the US, China, and Russia. With the sector experiencing exponential growth and a newly formed Ministry for Space, the Summit will be a prime opportunity to host robust conversations about New Zealand’s role in the space sector. Prominent speakers including leaders from NASA, Rocket Lab, Wisk, the Federal Aviation Authority and Space Port Japan will feature alongside workshops and panel discussions on important topics such as ethics, regulatory frameworks and payload for environment and community.
Vickie Harman, the event organiser and Operations Manager of Aerospace New Zealand, said "the Summit couldn’t come at a better time. With the aerospace sector booming, the Summit will focus on how the sector can lean into the global need for aerospace innovation which can provide new knowledge and support to address issues such as climate change and sustainability,”
Who should go?
The New Zealand Aerospace Summit 2024 is for anyone in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, aviation, and those dedicated to advancing the country’s aerospace industry. It aims to connect and empower individuals who are driving change and fostering sustainability in aerospace. The summit is an inclusive platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and inspiring actionable solutions for the future of aerospace in New Zealand.
Canterbury Tech Summit 2024
Event date: 27 September
The big week continues with the 21st Annual Canterbury Tech Summit 2024. This special edition is set to solidify its sell-out status with a line-up of impressive speakers, including keynote speaker Graham Grant, CEO of global tech success story Seequent and Futures-thinking expert Melissa Clark-Reynolds.
Alongside Graham and Melissa will be speakers covering wide ranging technology topics like innovation in open banking, AI for developers, electrification of farming, the art of software development, supercomputing and application performance, HealthTech, and digital transformation with representatives from global, national, and Christchurch’s technology businesses with a presence in the region.
Louisa Taylor, the general manager of the most active technology community in Aotearoa, Canterbury Tech –– said the Summit is set to bring together 800 tech leaders from around the country to celebrate 21 years. With three different streams of speakers and facilitated networking around interesting topics and an exhibition hall, attendees will find it easy to make valuable business connections with those in the businesses of tech or those using tech to enable growth and innovation in their businesses.
“Canterbury Region's tech sector is going from strength to strength despite the wider economic backdrop - there are so many great collaborations, and fantastic business being done every year at the Summit - come join us this year as we celebrate 21 years."
Innovation Expo 2024
Event dates: 27-28 September
Rounding out the week, the Innovation Expo will champion a future full of possibilities. With an expected audience of over 10,000 attendees, the free-to-attend event produced by Christchurch City Council’s Smart Christchurch Unit will feature the latest innovations and smart initiatives through interactive exhibits and experiences.
It is also supported by a stacked programme of workshops, keynote sessions, panel discussions, and presentations, keeping visitors aware of what is happening now, what is in the works, and what is coming soon.
Michael Healy, Expo organiser and Smart Christchurch Manager, says the event will be an opportunity for all ages to see exciting innovative solutions.
“The Expo will provide an opportunity for ākonga, whānau, and professionals to witness first-hand the transformative power of innovation in creating a more liveable, prosperous, healthy, and resilient city.”
Who should go?
There will be something for people of all ages inspired by innovation. Whether you’re a curious individual eager to explore new frontiers, looking for inspiration for a smarter future, or a student participating in competitions and workshops the Innovation Expo promises an unforgettable journey of discovery and inspiration for all.
Do not miss these cutting-edge events in September and soak up the many things to see and do in Christchurch in between connecting with the future of technology.
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