✦ CONFERENCE OVERVIEW ARTICLE

(NZART Centennial Conference 2026 – Draft)

Celebrating 100 Years of Amateur Radio in New Zealand

In 2026, the amateur radio community of New Zealand will gather in Auckland to celebrate a truly historic milestone—100 years of the New Zealand Association of Radio Transmitters.
This Centennial Conference is more than just an annual gathering. It is a once-in-a-generation event that honours a century of innovation, communication, public service, and community spirit. Hosted by the collective Auckland Amateur Radio Clubs, this conference brings together operators, experimenters, emergency communicators, and enthusiasts from across the country and beyond.

Conference Dates and Venue

The conference will be held over King’s Birthday Weekend 2026, at the prestigious:
Waipuna Hotel & Conference Centre, Auckland.
Click on the link above for more details on accomodation and location. (Close that link to return back here)
This modern lakeside venue offers outstanding facilities, accommodation, and hospitality—providing the perfect setting for both formal sessions and relaxed networking.

Registrations and Bookings

Delegates are encouraged to register early to secure their place at this landmark event. Please go to this link NZART 100 Conference to register, and see the full program.
Bookings can be made by phoning the Waipuna conference Centre on 0800 924 786 and quoting NZART2026 as a discount code. This wont work for online bookings. Registration options will include:

• Full conference passes
• Day attendance options
• Partner programmes
• Social event tickets

Accommodation is available onsite at Waipuna Lodge Hotel, with additional nearby options for overflow attendees.

A Programme Designed for Everyone

The Centennial Conference programme has been carefully curated to offer something for all attendees—from seasoned operators to those new to the hobby.

Forums and Presentations

A wide range of technical and practical forums will be presented, including:

• Radio technology and innovation
• Digital modes and emerging trends
• Emergency communications (AREC)
• Equipment design and experimentation
• Beginner and advanced operator sessions

These sessions will be delivered by experienced operators and respected voices within the amateur radio community.

The NZART Annual General Meeting

A key component of the conference is the NZART AGM, where members come together to:

• Review the year past
• Discuss the future direction of amateur radio in New Zealand
• Vote on remits and governance matters

This is an important opportunity for members to have their voice heard and contribute to the future of the organisation.

Distinguished Guests and VIPs

The conference will be honoured by the presence of distinguished guests, including:

• Government representatives
• Leaders in emergency communications
• International amateur radio representatives
• Key figures from across the New Zealand amateur radio community

These guests reflect the significance of amateur radio not only as a hobby, but as a vital part of national resilience and communication infrastructure.

Themed Centennial Dinner

A highlight of the weekend will be the Centennial Gala Dinner—a themed evening celebrating the rich history of amateur radio.
This special event will feature:

• A formal dinner experience
• Guest speakers
• Historical reflections and storytelling
• Fantastic entertainment and celebrations

The evening will capture the spirit of the past, present, and future of amateur radio in New Zealand. Sort out your clothes from yesteryear and wear them to this event. You could win the prize for the best dressed man and the best dressed lady along the theme of “Roaring Forties”.

Honouring 100 Years

Throughout the conference, we will reflect on a century of achievement:

• From Morse code and early transmitters
• To satellite communications and digital modes
• From small local clubs
• To a nationwide community connected through NZART

This centennial is not just about looking back—it is about inspiring the next generation of amateur radio operators.

Join Us in Auckland

Whether you are a long-time operator, a new licensee, or simply curious about the world of amateur radio, the NZART Centennial Conference promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Check out the program of events:
Main Program
Alternative Program
Saturday Night Dinner
Sunday Forums

Click on the link below to
Register
Come and be part of history.


Thanks

Brenton
Chairman of the Centennial Conference Committee