Big ideas. Bold conversations.
The IoD’s Annual Leadership Conference is New Zealand’s premier governance event, bringing together over 600 directors and business leaders for two days of bold conversations, fresh insights, and invaluable networking.
In 2025, a standout line-up of local and international speakers will explore the critical governance and leadership issues shaping Aotearoa and the world. Meet our confirmed speakers below - and be sure to check back regularly for the latest updates
IoD members earn 14 CPD points for attending.
Joe Aston is one of Australia’s most fearless commentators, known for turning The Australian Financial Review’s Rear Window into a must-read for sharp, unflinching takes on business and politics. In 2024, he became a best-selling author with The Chairman’s Lounge, offering a compelling inside look at Qantas. Now founder of Rampart, Joe brings his signature insight and candour to us day two session at the 2025 Leadership Conference.
Join us as a sponsor of New Zealand’s premier governance event. Sponsorship is a unique opportunity to align your brand with governance leadership, amplify your voice in the director community and connect directly with decision makers from across Aotearoa. Download the prospectus to learn more about the sponsorship opportunities available.
At the 2024 Leadership Conference, directors were challenged to think harder and lead smarter. From climate risk to AI, ethical investing to board dynamics, speakers offered bold ideas and practical tools for navigating complexity. With insights from global leaders and local changemakers, the message was clear: governance has never mattered more. In 2025, expect real conversations, future-focused thinking and the inspiration every director needs to lead with confidence.
Check out our highlights reel from the 2024 Leadership Conference for a taste of what you can expect this year. Held in Ōtautahi Christchurch, we enjoyed two vibrant days of learning, connection and courageous conversations.
Viaduct Events Centre
Registration opens at Viaduct Events Centre with networking drinks & canapés. Get prepared by completing your registration this evening, while having the opportunity to meet friends, old and new.
Viaduct Events Centre
Join us from 7.30am to register, grab a coffee and visit our exhibitor stands. Take your seat ahead of the conference opening at 9.00am.
Take your seats by 9.00am for the formal welcome to the 2025 IoD Leadership Conference.
Session and speaker information will be announced soon.
Session information will be announced soon.
Head upstairs to level three for spectacular views of Auckland's Viaduct Harbour.
Session and speaker information will be announced soon.
Session and speaker information will be announced soon.
What does it take to build trust in a world of constant disruption? In this keynote, Kirsty will delve into the evolving landscape of global communications, emphasising the critical role of trust in navigating today's interconnected world. She’ll reveal what it means to lead with integrity and influence in a fractured media landscape and why trust is no longer a soft value, but a strategic imperative.
Grab a bite, network and enjoy all the venue has to offer including our exhibition space on level three.
What does it mean to create a safe space in the boardroom and how will this enable diverse perspectives to be shared, while making room for rigorous debate and discussion?
Session and speaker information will be announced soon
Session and speaker information will be announced soon
Enjoy afternoon tea and visit our IoD lounge for a great place to catch up with a friend and learn more about what IoD has to offer.
Session and speaker information will be announced soon.
Session and speaker information will be announced soon.
Commentary with the day’s key highlights.
We invite our Chartered members for an exclusive networking function ahead of the conference dinner.
Join us before dinner and take the opportunity to share some of your key takeaways from the first day with your peers.
Wrap up day one with a relaxed and memorable evening at the conference dinner. This is your chance to unwind and connect with fellow attendees. With great food, light entertainment and lively conversation, it’s the perfect way to strengthen new connections and reflect on the day’s insights.
Dress code; business, business casual or dinner attire. Whatever you feel comfortable in!
Viaduct Events Centre
Grab a light bite and coffee ahead of the Power Breakfast sessions.
Start your day with a discussion on the key issues facing directors. These Q&A breakfast sessions are your opportunity to hear first-hand from some of New Zealand’s leading chairs and directors.
Further speakers will be announced soon
Further speakers will be announced soon
This session is sponsored by KPMG.
We'll open day two with a highlights reel of all the action from day one of the conference.
With fertility rates declining to historic lows, an aging population, and significant migration patterns, join us for this session with Professor Paul Spoonley as he discusses how these changes are transforming communities, the economy and identities across New Zealand.
In this fireside chat, David Kirk will offer a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how he led the bold transformation of NZ Rugby’s governance. This is a compelling story of courageous leadership, strategic reform, and the power of strong governance to future-proof one of New Zealand’s most iconic institutions.
Session and speaker information will be announced soon.
Enjoy a mid-morning bite and visit our sponsor exhibition space on level three.
Choose from one of three interactive and practical breakout sessions. Each one will delve into a specific governance topic and provide practical guidance and tools to navigate governance issues.
Speaker information will be announced soon
Speaker information will be announced soon
Running a company responsible for 30% of the world’s dairy exports requires a relationship anchored in mutual trust and respect. Join us for this fireside chat with the chair and CEO of Fonterra.
Session and speaker information will be announced soon.
Session information will be announced soon.
Conference closing commentary with key highlights and takeaways.
Thank you for joining us.
If you wish to cancel your registration for the IoD 2025 Annual Leadership Conference, you must contact us via email. The following cancellation conditions apply:
You may transfer your registration to another person if you are unable to attend. Please get in contact with us; conference@iod.org.nz
If paying by invoice payment must be received before attendance at conference (in-person or virtual), or your registration will be cancelled.
Please use your invoice number as your reference. This is now payable directly to the Institute of Directors. All invoices must be paid within 14 days.
Viaduct Events Centre, Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland
Located on Auckland’s vibrant waterfront, the Viaduct Events Centre offers premium, light-filled spaces with sweeping harbour views. Designed to a five-star environmental standard, the venue spans 6,000m² across three levels and sits in the heart of the lively Wynyard Quarter.
Just a short walk from the city centre, it’s known for its seamless event delivery, strong sustainability credentials and top-tier facilities – the ideal setting for Aotearoa’s premier governance event.
18 — 19 September 2025
We have a range of accommodation options at exclusive rates available to book when you purchase your ticket – all within walking distance of Viaduct Events Centre, restaurants and everything Auckland has to offer. Find out more about your accommodation options below.
5 STAR
For a luxurious waterfront stay, Park Hyatt Auckland offers an exceptional five-star experience. Overlooking the Waitematā Harbour, the hotel features elegant rooms, four dining venues, a day spa, infinity pool and full fitness centre. Located just across from the Viaduct Events Centre, it’s an ideal choice for delegates seeking comfort, sophistication and outstanding service.
5 STAR
Stylish, bold and full of character, QT Auckland offers a unique stay in the heart of the city. A scenic 12 minute walk from the Viaduct Events Centre, QT is a distinctive base for delegates looking to relax, recharge and experience something a little less conventional.
4 STAR
Modern and well-located, Travelodge places you right in the heart of the action. Just a six minute walk from the Viaduct Events Centre, it offers comfortable accommodation in Auckland’s fast-developing Wynyard precinct. A great base for conference delegates, with easy access to local dining, harbour views and the city’s many attractions.
We are delighted to introduce our 2025 sponsors. We value their support in making our conference a truly outstanding experience.
If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor of the 2025 IoD Leadership Conference, download our sponsorship prospectus here.
PRINCIPAL SPONSOR
We're pleased to welcome back ASB as a Principal Sponsor of the 2025 IoD Leadership Conference. As a long-standing National Partner of IoD, ASB play an important role in supporting our work and wider governance community.
PRINCIPAL SPONSOR
We’re delighted to have the continued support of our legal National Sponsor Dentons for the 2025 IoD Leadership Conference. The Dentons team will be on the ground at conference ready to engage with attendees and share insights.
PRINCIPAL SPONSOR
As the IoD National Sponsor in board software, Diligent are our trusted experts and for many New Zealand boards. Diligent will be returning as a Principal Sponsor showcasing how their solutions elevate governance.
COFFEE CART SPONSOR
Air New Zealand returns to support the 2025 IoD Leadership Conference with their popular coffee cart sponsorship and text-to-order service. Network with their crew and get your coffee fix while in the main plenary.
KEYNOTE SPONSOR
We’re delighted to welcome back Asia NZ Foundation as a keynote sponsor. Asia NZ Foundation are long-time supporters of the IoD Leadership Conference, bringing international insights from the Asian region to our programme.
LANYARD SPONSOR
Our newest National Sponsor HSE Global joins as the 2025 conference lanyard sponsor. HSE Global are pioneers in advancing innovation in health, safety and environmental solutions.
SESSION SPONSOR
KPMG is a key IoD National sponsor, helping to fuel the prosperity of New Zealand and will bring deep expertise to our conference programme. This year they are sponsoring a Power Breakfast session.
