10-11 November 2026
Due Drop, Auckland

THE KURA CONFERENCE

National curriculum changes are here.
Is your school up to speed?

From policy to pedagogy. We build the bridge.

New Zealand’s education landscape is shifting beneath our feet. Between navigating massive curriculum updates, managing staff wellbeing, and grappling with the rapid rise of AI in our classrooms, school leaders and educators are being asked to redesign learning in real-time.

The Kura Conference is where we move past the theory and offer proven approaches and examples to help shape solutions that fit your context. This is a multi-streamed, high-impact summit designed to give you the strategic tools, technological literacy, and leadership resilience required to guide your kura into the future.

Two Days. Three Streams.
One Definitive Event for Aotearoa’s Educators.

The Engine

Curriculum, pedagogy & change

We strip back the noise surrounding the national curriculum changes. From deep dives into Primary and Secondary shifts to the mechanics of change management, this stream provides the blueprint for implementing pedagogical shifts without losing your school’s unique identity.

The Frontier

Innovating the future of learning

Innovation is a core requirement for the modern classroom. We explore the ethical frontier of AI, practical use cases to reduce teacher workload, and how to build an innovation-ready culture. By championing integrated learning for purpose-led, real-world connections, this stream gives you the tools to prepare our ākonga for a future workforce that hasn’t been built yet.

The Heart

Leading for Impact

This stream explores the people challenges and opportunities facing today’s school leaders – from managing complaints, navigating difficult community dynamics, and tackling complex HR issues, to leading meaningful change within your kura. Learn from the experiences of other leaders and gain the latest insights into sustainable leadership practices that enable both people and schools to flourish.

8:30	Mihi Whakatau
8:45	Welcome from the Chair
9:00	Leading under pressure: Creating the conditions for people to thrive Drawing on more than two decades in psychology and high-performance environments, David Galbraith explores what happens to us - and the people around us - when pressure rises, expectations grow and change keeps coming. Explore how our own state, presence and behaviour (under pressure) can shape the energy, culture and performance of those around us Consider what helps people remain connected, courageous and able to perform when uncertainty, stress and change are present Look beyond simply managing stress or getting through change, and reflect on the conditions we can create for ourselves and others to genuinely thrive David Galbraith, Clinical Psychologist and Performance Coach
9:45	Learning beyond the algorithm: Preparing humans for a future we can't yet see Explore the human capabilities that will matter most in an AI-enabled world, including curiosity, judgement, creativity and relationships Discover how education can prepare learners for the future of work and leading intelligence through non-lineal learning Learn how to create digitally enabled futures that are culturally grounded, intergenerational, and protect the aspirations of Māori learners Challenge the rush to adopt new technology and explore how thoughtful, values-led innovation can deliver better outcomes for learners and communities Elle Archer, Systems Strategist and Futurist
10:30	Morning Tea
	The Engine Curriculum, pedagogy and change	The Frontier Innovating for the future of learning	The Heart Leading for impact
11:00	Welcome from the Chair Stephanie Thompson, Tumuaki, Beach Haven Primary School	Welcome from the Chair	Welcome from the Chair Stephen Evans, Tumuaki, Te Whānau ŌtūMatua
11:00	Te Mātaiaho, New Zealand Curriculum Update Practical walkthrough of curriculum expectations Insights in to significant shifts after consultation Updates and insights into the next 3 years of curriculum roll out Considerations in ensuring cuturally responsive implementation of the curriculum Support resources available and professional learning opportunities Hayley Welch, General Manager, New Zealand Curriculum & Te Whāriki, Ministry of Education	From fashion to future pathways: Inspiring the next generation through technology and STEAM Explore Whaea Nan's journey from the fashion industry to becoming a technology educator and the lessons she's learned along the way Discover how blending emerging technologies with mātauranga Māori creates authentic, engaging learning experiences that inspire Māori students, girls, and future engineers Learn how whakawhanaungatanga, strong relationships, student voice, and real-world design projects can unlock creativity, confidence, and meaningful pathways beyond school Reflect on the importance of remaining a lifelong learner—embracing vulnerability, learning alongside students, and continually adapting to prepare young people for an ever-changing future Whaea Nan Walden, Design and Evaluation Lead, Te Ahuaha Hangarau Kaiako - Creative Technology Teacher, Wellington East Girls College 2026 New Zealand Prime Minister's Science Teacher Prize Recipient	PANEL \| Holding the centre: Leading through change and adapting with purpose How to sustain self and staff wellbeing and maintaining momentum through significant reform Reframing change to find opportunity to reconnect with your school community Preparing your students for change Lucy Naylor, Tumuaki, Milford School and President, Auckland Primary Principals Association Greg Allan, Tumuaki, South Makirikiri School Karen Brinsden, Tumuaki, Botany Downs Secondary College and President, Auckland Secondary Schools Principals’ Association Daryl Gibbs, Tumuaki, Cambridge Middle School and President, NZ Association of Intermediate Middle Schooling
11:45	Case studies \| How schools are redesigning curriculum through local contexts SCHOOL 1 Keeping focus: Curriculum design, Mātauranga Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi Outlining approach to local curriculum design How this kura designed their implementation plan, prioritised steps and lead change throughout the community Deepening how te ao Māori, mātauranga Māori, and local curriculum contexts are authentically embedded in everyday teaching Table discussions and Q&A Bryan Rehutai, Tumuaki, Te Uru Karaka Newton Central School	Reimagining learning for the AI era Establishing safe, ethical and effective AI use in NZ schools Building literacy across your community of teachers, students and whānau Leveraging AI to enhance indigenous education and safeguard data sovereignty Brendon Shaw, Educator, Papatoetoe North School, PHD student, University of Waikato	Leading with courage: Strengthening school culture through culturally responsive leadership Explore how courageous, values-driven leadership can foster a school culture grounded in trust, belonging, and high expectations for every learner Share practical strategies for building cultural capability across staff and embedding culturally responsive practice into everyday leadership Demonstrate how authentic partnerships with whānau and mana whenua can strengthen decision-making, enrich learning, and create a shared vision for success Highlight approaches that support equitable outcomes for Māori learners by embedding Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments into school leadership, culture, and practice Leanne Otene, National Director, Te Arahou o Aotearoa Trust (Māori Achievement Collaborative - MAC)
12:30	Lunch
1:30	SCHOOL 2 Leading Curriculum Change That Works: Practical and Intentional Approach Learn how Brunswick school are navigating curriculum change and practical strategies to design effective teaching and learning programs Working alongside the Minister and Ministry; explore their trial of the draft learning areas in multi-level classrooms with a focus on social science and science curriculums outside of the year by year sequence Leading with intention and using a commonsense approach to change management and prioritisation Table discussions and Q&A Jane Corcoran, Tumuaki, Brunswick School and Vice President, NZ Rural Schools Leadership Association	Innovation station: Transforming learning through technology Hear directly from schools using technologies like 3D printing, coding, robotics and digital design to enrich teaching and learning Discover practical examples of how technology is building creativity, problem-solving and real-world learning across the curriculum Learn what worked, the challenges encountered, and practical advice for introducing innovative technologies in your own school Conor McHoull, Head of Digital Learning & Innovation, Kristin School More panellists to be announced	Leading with confidence: managing complaints, investigations and community challenges Vexatious complaints, OIA requests and Ombudsman complaints Ensuring strong frameworks to deal with increase in challenges Responsibilities of the principal and board to ensure fair & reasonable investigation What it looks like to be under investigation Gretchen Stone, Partner, Harrison Stone
2:15	Panel \| Assessment and reporting in practice: Practical insights from schools navigating new requirements How schools are using SMART and other assessment tools to support decision-making Comparing assessment results across different tools to inform teaching and reporting Practical approaches to reporting student progress to whānau using multiple sources of evidence Real-world examples of how others are approaching challenges associated with multi-level classes, students with English as a second language and new assessment requirements Andrew King, Tumuaki, Ōropi School Tagget Christophersen, Deputy Principal, Cambridge Middle School Ngaria Stephenson, Principal, Woodland Park School	Whēnua First: Building a Rural Campus for Deeper Learning Discover MI Papakāinga, Manurewa Intermediate's Rural Campus, how the vision came to life, and the practical steps taken to transform the site into a thriving whēnua-based learning environment Learn how the school brought students, staff, whānau and the wider community on the journey, including the challenges faced and the partnerships that made the vision possible Explore practical examples of whēnua-based learning in action and the impact it has had on student engagement, wellbeing, resilience and environmental stewardship Jo McIntyre-Brown, Director MI Papakāinga (MISRC), Manurewa Intermediate School	Employment matters in schools: Navigating disputes, risk and complex cases Explore key principles of managing staff employment issues, disputes and performance concerns within a school context Examine case law examples that highlight different legal pathways, decision points and potential outcomes for employers Work through real-world complex scenarios to understand how similar situations can escalate and how to respond effectively and fairly Fi McMillan, Special Counsel, Anderson Lloyd
3:00	Afternoon tea
3:30	Workshop - Curriculum planning and assessment design aligned to the refreshed curriculum Collaborate with peers to explore practical approaches to curriculum planning and assessment design aligned with the refreshed curriculum Engage in focused discussion tables covering Mathematics, Literacy, Science & Technology, Te Marautanga o Aotearoa and assessment practice Leave with ideas, resources and strategies that can be adapted to your school's context and learner needs	Tech showcase: Experience innovation in action Explore hands-on demonstrations of emerging technologies transforming teaching and learning Try practical tools including AI, robotics, coding, 3D printing and immersive technologies Connect with educators and technology experts to discover ideas you can take back to your school	TIPENE: Reimagining education for Māori boys Explore Tīpene’s co-principal leadership approach, its connections to the school’s history, and the early lessons gained on the journey so far Examine how the kura is using its unique place, history and geographic connections to create an education experience that reflects the strengths, aspirations and identity of its ākonga How the school is working to shift mindsets among students, designing an education model grounded in kaupapa Māori, and its vision for Māori boys education Nathan Durie, Co-Tumuaki, TIPENE
4:30	Leading with purpose: Driving curriculum and pedagogical change Implementing effective curriculum and pedagogical change while maintaining school values and strategic priorities Preparing and empowering teams to lead and sustain change across the whole school Incorporating authentic student voice and assessing learner needs to inform decision-making Providing adequate, equitable support for kaiako, ākonga, and their whānau while prioritising change for impact	Reducing workload with AI: Real-world strategies that save time Practical use case of using AI to complete administrative tasks, giving teachers more time to spend with students AI as a tool to enhance teacher capability (not a replacement) Lesson planning, checking data, how to train AI to adapt to your style, prompts	Leading for inclusion: Navigating behaviour in the classroom Building understanding of different behaviours and its impact on learning, wellbeing, and performance Creating inclusive environments with what you have in the classroom Practical strategies to support the different needs of your akonga Stephen Evans, Tumuaki, Te Whānau ŌtūMatua
5:00	Networking Drinks

8:45	Welcome from the Chair
8:50	Transforming schools through connection, belonging and wellbeing Lessons from leading a whole-school transformation grounded in relationships, belonging, and equity Why wellbeing, cultural connection, and emotional safety are the foundations for engagement, achievement, and lasting change Using relational neuroscience and te ao Māori to create school cultures where learners, staff, and whānau thrive Jase Williams, TEDx Speaker, Author & Former Principal
	The Engine New Zealand Curiculum \| Te Mātaiaho, assessment and reporting	The Frontier Innovating for the future of learning	The Heart Leading for impact
9:40	Welcome from the Chair and introduction to stream Dr Catherine Law, Tumuaki, Avonside Girls High School	Welcome from the Chair	Welcome from the Chair Stephen Evans, Tumuaki, Te Whānau ŌtūMatua
9:45	10.00am Te Marautanga o Aotearoa, Māori-medium curriculum of New Zealand Practical walkthrough of curriculum expectations Insights into significant shifts after consultation Support resources available and professional learning opportunities Kiritina Johnstone, Programme Lead for Māori Medium within Te Poutāhū \| Curriculum Centre, Ministry of Education	Connecting culture and innovation: Empowering Māori and Pasifika learners through STEAM Using coding and digital storytelling to bring Indigenous and Pacific narratives to life through STEAM learning Evidence of how culturally responsive STEAM experiences can increase engagement, confidence, and interest in STEAM subjects Practical lessons for educators on integrating Indigenous knowledge, creativity, and technology to inspire future STEAM pathways	PANEL \| Stepping up: Preparing for principalship Developing leadership capability and succession pathways within your school Practical steps aspiring principals can take now to prepare for the next stage Lessons on sustainable leadership, resilience, and avoiding burnout in the early years Alistair Luke, Tumuaki, Whangamata Area School
10:30	Morning Tea
11:00	Case studies \| How schools are redesigning curriculum Leading in Times of Change: Our Journey Towards the New Curriculum Prioritising Change – What matters most, and what comes first? Planning for Implementation – Turning curriculum direction into practical action Leading People Through Change – Building understanding, ownership and confidence Table discussions and Q&A Kirsty Dowding, Tumuaki, Hobsonville Point secondary School	Whanaungatanga in action: Building stronger community connections Learn how a student-led podcast became a powerful platform for sharing stories, amplifying voices, and deepening connections across the school community The importance of building meaningful partnerships with whānau and community groups to support student success Develop authentic and enduring relationships with local iwi that enrich learning and strengthen cultural understanding Explore practical ways to embed Te Tiriti o Waitangi and celebrate the diverse cultures represented within your kura Dan George, Tumuaki, Victory Primary School	Leading safe outdoor learning: Governance, risk and responsibility Clarifying the roles of boards, principals and school leaders in creating safe, high-quality Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) programmes Drawing on the Fatality Prevention Mindset, learn how leadership, governance, staff competence, clear responsibilities and learning from past incidents contribute to effective safety systems Explore practical examples to support discussion about overseeing higher-risk activities, working with external providers, responding to changing conditions, and ensuring that reviews and investigations lead to improved practice Fiona McDonald, Chief Executive, Education Outdoors New Zealand
11:45	SCHOOL 2 Local curriculum design Implementation plans, prioritisation and leading change Time table design to reflect new curriculum requirements Deepening how te ao Māori, mātauranga Māori, and local curriculum contexts are authentically embedded in everyday teaching	Case study 1 \| STEAM in action: A school's journey to real-world learning Explore how one school has embedded STEAM across its curriculum to create authentic, engaging and future-focused learning experiences Learn about the structures, partnerships and teaching approaches that support interdisciplinary, inquiry-based learning Gain practical insights into the challenges, successes and lessons learned, with ideas you can adapt to your own school context Jo Naera, STEAM Teacher, Maungatapu School Tane Bennett, Tumuaki, Maungatapu School	Student voice: Empowering young people to shape their future Hear this firsthand story of advocating for curriculum change as a secondary student, and explore what her experience reveals about giving young people a genuine voice in shaping the systems they learn within Reflect on the role schools and leaders play in building student confidence, agency and leadership, and how creating space for student voice can influence young people well beyond their time at school Take away practical perspectives on how principals can foster a culture where students are encouraged to speak up, challenge ideas, take action and connect their learning to the world beyond the classroom Leah Bell, Former Student Curriculum Advocate and Researcher, Tauhokohoko Project
12:30	Lunch
1:30	Table discussions - Preparing for Y11 in 2028 Facilitated table discussions with schools facing similar opportunities and challenges Opportunity to share ideas with your peers and plans for Y11 in 2028 Early thinking around time table design, removal of exams and preparing the first cohort	Case study 2 \| STEAM in action: A school's journey to real-world learning Explore how one school has embedded STEAM across its curriculum to create authentic, engaging and future-focused learning experiences Learn about the structures, partnerships and teaching approaches that support interdisciplinary, inquiry-based learning Gain practical insights into the challenges, successes and lessons learned, with ideas you can adapt to your own school context	From overseas to Aotearoa: Supporting international teachers to thrive Helping international teachers navigate the culture, values, and expectations of New Zealand kura Building international teachers' cultural literacy, their understanding of te Tiriti and an appreciation of our history Lessons learned from successfully recruiting, retaining, and supporting international teaching staff Anne Robertson, Kaihuawaere \| Learning Consultant, Tātai Aho Rau - Core Education
2:30	Process and design: The new qualifications and assessment Understanding the current design process for the NZ Certificate of Education and the NZ Advanced Certificate of Education Insights from consultation and opportunities to be involved	Creating a culture of innovation: Leading change that lasts Build the leadership mindset and practices that encourage innovation and continuous improvement Create the conditions for collaboration, experimentation, and purposeful change Sustain momentum by building staff ownership and embedding innovation into school culture	Governance in action: Navigating board stability and leadership challenges Explore an anonymised case study of a school experiencing significant governance and leadership tension impacting direction and stability Examine the legal, relational and procedural considerations involved when board and leadership roles come under pressure Discuss practical approaches to restoring stability, maintaining student focus, and ensuring fair, transparent decision-making
2:30	Summary remarks from the Chair Dr Catherine Law, Tumuaki, Avonside Girls High School	Summary remarks from the Chair	Summary remarks from the Chair Stephen Evans, Principal, Te Whānau ŌtūMatua
3:30	Conference end

Speakers

Tane Bennett

Tumuaki

Maungatapu School

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Tane Bennett is the Principal of Maungatapu Primary School in Tauranga, New Zealand, appointed in 2019, with a background in education leadership, culturally responsive teaching, and community engagement. Tane is a former student at the school and is a strong supporter of STEAM education. Maungatapu School was established in 1881 and has a rich history. Our history, land, and people are integral to our school culture and curriculum. Our roll currently sits at approximately 600 students. We offer a dual-medium curriculum: the New Zealand Curriculum (NZC) for around 480 learners, and Te Marautanga o Aotearoa for approximately 120 learners. We proudly feature our very own dedicated STEAM class, purposefully designed and resourced for primary-aged children. Our STEAM programme caters to a range of learning styles with key future-focused skills: curiosity, problem-solving, perseverance, communication, and collaboration.

Kiritina Johnstone

Programme Lead for Māori Medium, Te Poutāhū | Curriculum Centre

Ministry of Education

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Kiritina Johnstone (Ngāti Kurī, Te Aupouri, Te Parawhau, Patu Harakeke) is an experienced education leader and Programme Lead for Māori Medium within Te Poutāhū | Curriculum Centre at the Ministry of Education. She has a strong commitment to advancing equitable and high-quality outcomes for Māori learners across the Early Learning and Schooling sectors. Based in the Wellington Region, she brings extensive expertise in kaupapa Māori, language revitalisation, curriculum development, and strategic programme leadership within Māori education and across Māori-medium education settings. Throughout her career, Kiritina has worked collaboratively with educators, whānau, iwi, and sector partners to strengthen teaching and learning practices that uphold te reo Māori, tikanga Māori, Māori knowledge systems and processes, and culturally responsive approaches. She is passionate about creating opportunities for innovation and excellence across the education system while ensuring Māori learners can thrive as Māori in an ever-evolving global world. Kiritina is the mother of five amazing children and 9 mokopuna who are her “why” in everything she does across the education system. Alongside her husband her whānau push her everyday to do what is needed to be sure all children across the system have access to everything they are entitled to so they can be successful in whatever they choose. Recognised for her collaborative leadership style, strategic thinking, and dedication to educational success, Kiritina is committed to supporting meaningful change that enhances outcomes for learners, educators, and communities across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Jo Naera

STEAM Specialist Teacher

Te Kura o Maungatapu

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Jo Naera is a passionate primary educator with over 20 years of experience empowering young learners across all primary school levels. Currently serving as the STEAM Specialist Teacher at Maungatapu School in Tauranga, Jo designs dynamic, hands-on learning experiences that inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and innovation.

Prior to her specialist role, Jo spent five years as a Year 5/6 Team Leader, guiding collaborative teaching teams and fostering strong student achievement before taking time to start a family. Jo is deeply committed to educational equity, striving to ensure every student, regardless of background or learning style, has the opportunity to succeed. She focuses on developing active problem-solvers who are creatively engaged, confident in their abilities, and equipped with the skills to navigate a changing world.

David Galbraith

Clinical Psychologist, Leadership Mentor

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David Galbraith is a NZ Registered Clinical Psychologist and leadership mentor who has spent decades walking with people at the edge of what is required of them, including Olympic athletes, national teams, and business leaders. His guidance is also influenced by Eastern philosophies and grounded in calm under pressure, deep preparation, and a steady authority that places who you become above what you achieve. Today, his focus is on making this guidance available through multiple pathways to those willing to meet life and leadership with the same depth.

Jane Corcoran

Tumuaki

Brunswick School

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Jane Corcoran is the Principal of Brunswick School in Whanganui and Vice President of the New Zealand Rural and Area Schools Leadership Association (NZRASLA). With more than 30 years’ experience in education across New Zealand and internationally, Jane has taught and led in both urban and rural schools. Recognised for her authentic, experience-based approach to multi-level teaching, Jane challenges traditional year-level thinking and shares practical strategies for leading sustainable curriculum change. Jane believes that high-performing schools are built through collaborative team cultures underpinned by clarity, trust, and intentional leadership.

Nathan Durie

Co‑Tumuaki

TIPENE

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Nathan Durie is Co‑Tumuaki at TIPENE (formerly St Stephen’s School) and a leading figure in re‑establishing an iconic Māori boys’ boarding kura after 25 years, with a vision to empower Māori and Pasifika rangatahi through culturally grounded, holistic education. He is a former student of St Stephen’s School and has been a Tumuaki for 26 years with continuing engagement as a current classroom teacher. Nathan has his postgraduate degree in Sport Management, a Postgraduate Diploma in Bilingual Teaching, a Bachelor of Education and Diploma of Teaching.

Karen Brinsden

Tumuaki

Botany Downs Secondary College

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Karen Brinsden is the Principal/Tumuaki of Botany Downs Secondary College in East Auckland, a large multicultural secondary school of approximately 2,000 students. Since helping establish the college in its early years, Karen has played a significant role in shaping its distinctive whānau-based culture, where belonging, wellbeing, and achievement are seen as essential foundations for success.

With more than a decade of leadership experience, Karen is passionate about culturally responsive leadership, educational equity, and creating environments where young people can thrive academically, socially, and personally. She is committed to developing future-focused learning communities that celebrate diversity and empower students to become confident, connected learners.

Karen also serves as President of the Auckland Secondary Principals’ Association (ASSPA), advocating for secondary education and supporting school leaders across the Auckland region.

Jase Williams

TEDx Speaker, Author & Former Principal

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Jase Williams is a facilitator, author, and advocate dedicated to the vital intersection of relational neuroscience, indigenous knowledge, and equity-centred practice. With 25+ years of experience, Jase walks alongside people to help them return to our most basic of human needs: belonging, unconditional love, and the restorative power of healthy relationships.

He is the author of Your Trauma Has A Whakapapa, where he invites us into a collective conversation on breaking generational trauma through remembering, reparenting, and reclaiming our well-being. As a National Champion for the Ministry of Social Development’s Changemaker programme, Jase supports community-led systems change and family violence prevention, drawing on his extensive experience across correctional facilities, social services, mental health, and suicide awareness to help individuals and organisations navigate trauma, intergenerational harm, and recovery.

Jase served as the Principal of Henry Hill School (2012–2022)—where he led a transformation recognised by the Prime Minister’s Education Excellence Award for Wellbeing.

Whether addressing a TEDx audience, working alongside incarcerated men to reclaim their narratives, or supporting parents and professionals in finding connection, Jase brings a relentless commitment to equity. He remains a leading voice here in New Zealand and internationally, challenging us to recognise that the path to true healing is always found in the strength of our collective humanity.

Fiona McDonald

Chief Executive

Education Outdoors New Zealand

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Fiona McDonald is the Chief Executive of Education Outdoors New Zealand (EONZ), where she provides expert support to schools and empowers educators to deliver safe, high-quality education outside the classroom (EOTC). A former PE and outdoor education teacher and senior school leader, Fiona has contributed to national resources including the Ministry of Education’s EOTC Guidelines, Safety Management Template and Toolkit, Good Practice Guidelines and curriculum. She is passionate about collaboration, sector leadership, and fostering innovative, meaningful connections to te taiao (the natural world) through education.

Daryl Gibbs

Tumuaki

Cambridge Middle School

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Daryl Gibbs is the President of NZAIMS and has dedicated more than 20 years to middle years education, including over 12 years as a principal. He is passionate about the unique needs of emerging adolescents and believes in creating learning environments where young people can thrive. Daryl is equally committed to leading and growing people, supporting educators to build strong cultures, develop their leadership, and make a lasting difference for students.

Greg Allan

Tumuaki

South Makirikiri School

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Greg, as the current Tumuaki of South Makirikiri School, had dedicated time to cultivating courageous leaders who embrace risk-taking and place-based learning. Having taught and led across every variety of school in Aotearoa—including Secondary, Area, Intermediate, Primary, and Full Primary—Greg brings a depth of experience to empowering educators to step beyond traditional boundaries and innovate without the fear of failure.

A firm proponent of using the local environment in education. Greg views the surrounding environment as an essential co-teacher. By integrating outdoor learning, and community contexts into curriculum design, Greg guides school leaders to create immersive experiences that ignite curiosity and lifelong wonder in learners. Through targeted mentorship and adaptive leadership, Greg continues to craft his leadership skills over time to build collaborative, risk-friendly school cultures. Greg’s mission is to equip educators with the confidence to innovate and the insight to leverage Aotearoa’s unique surroundings and the curriculum to inspire resilient, engaged learners.

Conor McHoull

Head of Digital Learning & Innovation

Kristin School

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Conor McHoull is an enthusiastic digital leader shaping whole-school digital learning strategy and AI governance at Kristin School. He leads digital learning development across all year levels, establishing governance models, providing staff professional development through microlearning to reduce tool overload, and leading community engagement on digital futures.

His approach is shaped by a career spanning classroom teaching, national education roles at Microsoft, and learning operations at Air New Zealand. Conor is also the founder and tutor of The Learning Lab, a growing New Zealand-wide tutoring organisation. Outside work, he is a Formula 1 fan, an avid traveller, and a dad to an active three-year-old son, with a second boy due within the next few weeks.

Andrew King

Tumuaki

Ōropi School

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Andrew King has been a primary school principal based in the Bay of Plenty since 2008 and is currently Principal at Oropi School, Tauranga. He completed his Masters of Educational Leadership in 2015 with a research focus on leading a school’s Intercultural Strategy. He was the foundation Kahui Ako Lead for Tauranga Peninsula 2016-2018 and is currently President of the NZ Rural Schools Leadership Association, a national peak body representing 500+ schools. Andrew has extensive presentation and workshop facilitation experience and has represented the sector on various panels and reference groups.

Leanne Otene

National Director

Te Arahou o Aotearoa Trust (Māori Achievement Collaborative - MAC)

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Leanne Otene (Te Rarawa, Ngāpuhi) is the Tumu Whakarae (National Director) of Te Arahou o Aotearoa, a kaupapa Māori charitable trust delivering culturally sustaining professional learning and development to Tumuaki across the motu, including its flagship programme, the Māori Achievement Collaborative (MAC).

With over 30 years as a school principal, Leanne became the first wāhine Māori elected National President of the New Zealand Principals’ Federation (2023 to 2025) and now serves as the Asia/Oceania Representative on the Executive Committee of the International Confederation of Principals (ICP). She is also Co-Chair of Brainwave Trust Aotearoa, a role that extends her involvement in education, scientific research, and culturally grounded, evidence-based practice across the full learning journey, from newborn brain development through to rangatahi leaving school.

A key architect of the MAC kaupapa and co-author of its foundational resource, Te Whare Tapu o Te Ngākau Māori, Leanne has spent her career supporting tūmuaki to lead with cultural confidence, transforming school culture through honest relationships with staff, whānau, hapū and iwi. Drawing on decades in school leadership and national governance, she brings practical, tested approaches for building cultural capability, honouring partnerships with mana whenua, and delivering equitable outcomes for Māori learners. Through her role as Asia/Oceania Representative on the ICP, Leanne has carried this kaupapa onto the global stage, positioning culturally sustainable leadership as a focus conversation within the ICP Confederation in 2026.

Nan Walden

Te Ahuaha Hangarau Kaiako - Creative Technology Teacher

Wellington East Girls' College

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Whaea Nan Walden-Moeung is a Technology and Te Ao Māori educator, designer, and emerging researcher based in Wellington, New Zealand. She is the recipient of the 2026 New Zealand Prime Minister’s Science Teacher Prize and a 2026 World of WearableArt (WOW) finalist. Nan is currently undertaking a PhD at Massey University, researching the integration of circular design, advanced materials, robotics, and additive manufacturing into creative education. Passionate about authentic, culturally responsive learning, she develops innovative programmes that connect design, sustainability, mātauranga Māori, and industry partnerships, empowering students to become creative, future-focused problem solvers.

Elle Archer

Systems strategist and Futurist

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Elle Archer is a systems architect, futurist and intergenerational architect working at the convergence of iwi development, technology, infrastructure, governance and economic transformation. Her kaupapa is simple yet ambitious: Tāku take, he whakakotahi – to unify. Across iwi, sectors, disciplines and generations. With 30 years spanning science, technology, education, infrastructure, economic development and emergency management, Elle now operates primarily at governance and systems design level – aligning data, digital excellence, workforce futures and infrastructure into cohesive, future-ready ecosystems. She is driven by a commitment to move communities from digital equity to digital excellence and ultimately to sovereignty, ensuring that mokopuna inherit opportunity, capability and a world wiser than the one we were given. Elle serves across multiple national boards and executive roles and is known for her ability to bridge strategy and implementation, integrating foresight with practical action. Her philosophy is simple: WE shapes Me.

Stephen Evans

Principal

Te Whānau o Ōtūmatua

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Kia ora my name is Stephen. I am a primary trained teacher who has had 16 years of Principalship experience. I have mostly worked with neuro diverse learners and with young people who have dynamic behaviour needs.

I am passionate about supporting culturally, creative teams and developing learning environments, especially outdoors. I value creativity, music, authenticity, autonomy and student led purposeful learning experiences.

I am most passionate about stories. I look forward to hearing about you and sharing some stories, to help you identify what you wish to create for the children and teams you will be supporting in the future.

Dr Catherine Law

Principal

Avonside Girls' High School

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Catherine Law is the Principal | Tumuaki of Avonside Girls’ High School | Te Kura Kohine o Ōtākaro in Christchurch. She is also a member of the National Curriculum Coherence group and seconded to the Ministry of Education as Programme Lead for the Years 11-13 subject development. Catherine taught in the UK and in the International system before moving to New Zealand in 2002 and has experience of the NCEA, Cambridge and IB curricula and qualification systems. Her passion and expertise are in curriculum and pedagogy, and she has held leadership positions in these areas in schools in Auckland and Hawkes’ Bay before becoming principal of Avonside Girls’ High School. From 2017 she worked with the KERU project at the University of Auckland and has led work on knowledge rich curriculum design through Kahui Ako and school groups. Catherine completed her Doctorate in Education in 2024. Her research work was focused on what teachers think and do when designing curriculum and the process of recontextualising curriculum for schools and for the classroom. She has presented her research at the Pacific Circle Consortium conference (2022) and NZARE conference (2021).

Bryan Rehutai

Principal

Te Uru Karaka Newton Central School

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Bryan Rehutai is the Tumuaki (Principal) of Te Uru Karaka Newton Central School (Ngāti Porou, Tahiti), and a school leader committed to culturally responsive practice and equity. Our kura is proudly Te Tiriti o Waitangi based; we were the first in New Zealand to establish a formal co-governance structure. This experience has given him unique, practical insights into embedding Te Tiriti principles at the governance and operations level. In his presentation Bryan will guide you through practical approaches for building cultural capability and ensuring equitable outcomes for learners. He will share vital insights on working with your school board and maintaining an unwavering commitment to Te Tiriti-based practice in your kura’s leadership and operation, helping you navigate the complexities of recent government announcements. This is essential 101 learning for leading culturally diverse and inclusive schools in Aotearoa.

Jo McIntyre-Brown

Director MI Papakāinga (Rural Campus)

Manurewa Intermediate

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Jo McIntyre-Brown is an educator with over 30 years of experience in both school and community learning contexts, including 25 years in New Zealand, predominantly in Auckland and Whāngarei. She has worked with students of all ages and supported teachers through professional development and upskilling initiatives. Her passion lies in embodied learning, with a strong focus on sustainability, systems thinking, and the design process. For the past eight years, in her role as Across School Leader for STEAM and Integration for Te Kāhui Ako o Manurewa, she has explored and refined these approaches in classroom settings. More recently, Jo has taken on the role of Director at MI Papakāinga, a rural campus for Manurewa Intermediate School, where she is leading the design of a curriculum centred on outdoor learning. Her work in this space includes connecting students with the environment and their cultural heritage through activities such as Ngā Taonga Tākaro (traditional Māori games) and Te Māra Hūpara (traditional playground installations), as well as fostering personal reconnection through gardening and crafting activities.

Kura Conference Advisory Panel

Our Advisory Panel brings together some of New Zealand’s most respected education leaders, with expertise spanning school leadership, curriculum design, technology education, learning support, and system-wide change.

Their collective experience has helped shape a programme that reflects the challenges, opportunities, and priorities facing schools today

Julie Schumacher

Educational Research and Development Consultant
| Director

The Education Group

Vaughan Couillault

Programme Lead – Engagement (Curriculum and Assessment Change Program)

Papatoetoe High School

Sarah Washbrooke

Deputy Chair

TENZ

Billie-Jean Potaka Ayton

Principal

Kaiti School

Catherine Law

Principal

Avonside Girls’ High School

Why your school will value this investment:

The Kura Conference is designed for maximum institutional impact, tailored specifically for Primary & Secondary School Leaders, HODs, Lead Teachers, and Educational Innovators.

Because this is a multi-streamed event covering curriculum, tech, and wellbeing simultaneously, the most effective strategy is to send a leadership cohort to divide and conquer the program. By customising your team’s experience and swapping between streams, your school will walk away with a comprehensive return on investment:

Actionable Curriculum Blueprints:

Your curriculum leads and HODs will gain ready-to-implement frameworks for the refreshed national curriculum, moving seamlessly from policy to classroom practice.

Workload Reduction through Tech:

Your educational innovators will discover verified AI and tech use cases specifically vetted to give teachers time back and streamline administration.

Strategic Alignment & Value Protection:

Your senior leadership team will acquire the change-management tools needed to align incoming national priorities with your school’s unique local values.

Staff Resilience & Wellbeing:

Your leadership cohort will bring back practical, systemic strategies to combat teacher burnout, navigate complex student behaviours, and support neurodivergence.

National Networking:

Your staff will connect and collaborate with primary and secondary peers from across Aotearoa who are successfully navigating the exact same transitions.

Tickets Opening Soon — Register Your Interest

We are currently finalising our ticketing tiers, including exclusive early-bird rates and team package discounts. Register your interest below.

This event is ideal for:

Executives and leaders: Those responsible for driving strategic change and organisational transformation.
Change management professionals: Individuals who specialise in managing and leading change initiatives.
HR professionals: HR leaders and practitioners interested in fostering a culture of change and employee engagement.
Consultants and advisors: Professionals who support organisations in their change and transformation journeys.
Anyone seeking to develop their leadership skills and ability to navigate change.

Venue

The location and how you can get there

Address

Due Drop Events Centre
770 Great South Road,
Wiri, Auckland

Tickets - choose your option

$1500

$ 1100 + gst Per Person

Must be from the same organisation & book at the same time. For valid tickets, payment by 25 September, 2026.

$1900

$ 1500 + gst

For valid ticket, payment by 25 September, 2026.

$ 900 + gst Price Per Person

Must be from the same organisation & book at the same time. For valid tickets, payment by 17 July, 2026.

$1900

$ 1300 + gst

For valid ticket, payment by 17 July, 2026.

$1500

$ 1300 + gst Per Person

Must be from the same organisation & book at the same time. For valid tickets, payment by 20 October, 2026.

$1900

$ 1700 + gst

For valid ticket, payment by 20 October, 2026.

$ 1500 + gst Per Person

Must be from the same organisation & book at the same time. For valid tickets, payment by 10 November, 2026.

$ 1900 + gst

For valid ticket, payment by 10 November, 2026.

Registration Conditions

Ticket Terms
All prices are in New Zealand dollars ($NZD)
A surcharge of 2.5% + GST applies to credit card payments on top of the total amount.
Pre-Sale Tickets are valid only for the specific event for which they were purchased and cannot be transferred to other events. To remain valid, Super Saver and Early Bird tickets must be paid by date quoted.
Group ticket options are valid for registrations from the same organisation, booked at the same time.
By selecting any special pricing offer for classes of organisation, sector, or individuals or using any promotion code, you are asserting to the organiser your right to claim any such pricing offer, and acknowledge the organiser’s right to audit such claim and, if in the opinion of the organiser using its sole discretion the conditions for special pricing are not met, reject any registration.

For full terms & conditions, please visit https://www.brightstar.co.nz/terms-and-conditions

Exhibitor

Supporting Organisation

Sponsorship & Exhibition Opportunities

Aotearoa’s schools are facing massive curriculum changes, staff burnout, and the rise of AI. Decision-makers aren’t just looking for advice—they are looking for tools, tech, and partners to help them execute.

The Kura Conference 2026 brings together primary and secondary principals, board members, and educational innovators. Align your brand with our dedicated Curriculum, Innovation, or Leadership streams and pitch directly to the budget holders.

Ready to take your brand to the next level? Contact us today to learn more or secure your spot at this leading event.

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