NZCCM Conference 2026 Titiro Whakamuri: Retrospection and Change

Titiro Whakamuri: Retrospection and Change

23–25 September 2026
National Library Te Puna Mātauranga o Aotearoa, Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington

This special anniversary conference celebrates 40 years since NZCCM’s beginnings as an incorporated society. It will look back at the people, institutions and ideas that shaped conservation in Aotearoa, while opening up important conversations about how the profession can remain responsive, relevant and connected in the decades ahead. 

The programme brings together an outstanding range of speakers from across Aotearoa and overseas. Keynote addresses will be presented by Dr Rangituatahi Te Kanawa, Conservator Textiles and Harakeke Research Developer, and Dean Whiting, Chief Executive of Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga. Sessions will explore the origins of conservation in Aotearoa, preventive conservation, te ao Māori and transformative practice, collaborative and community-centred projects, conservation decision-making, training pathways, emerging technologies, emergency response and the future of the profession. A dedicated poster and networking session will provide further opportunities to share research, projects and ideas. 

Registration includes:

• Welcome drinks at the National Library
• Two full days of presentations on 23 and 24 September
• Morning and afternoon teas
• A printed summary of abstracts and conference bag
• Two complimentary tours on Friday 25 September

The Friday programme begins with a guided visit to Ngā Mokopuna – The Living Building at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, followed by tours of the new shared conservation facility serving the National Library, Archives New Zealand, the Alexander Turnbull Library and Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision. The conference venue and associated spaces are fully accessible. 

Registration fees

NZCCM or AICCM member: NZ$160
Non-member: NZ$240
Student: NZ$60

An optional conference dinner will be held at Ernesto’s, Grey Street, at 6.30 pm on Thursday 24 September. The NZ$79 Pasifika-themed set menu includes vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. Dinner places are limited to 60 and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Conference dinner bookings close: 31 August 2026
All conference registrations close: 11 September 2026

Questions about the conference or registration can be directed to NZCCM.conference@gmail.com.

Whether you work directly in conservation or across museums, galleries, archives, libraries, heritage places, collections, research, education or related fields, this conference offers a valuable opportunity to exchange knowledge, strengthen professional connections and help shape the future of conservation in Aotearoa.

Please share this invitation with your members, colleagues, students and professional networks. We look forward to welcoming you to Te Whanganui-a-Tara for three stimulating days of reflection, learning and connection.