Annual Conference 2026 - Responsible Resources, Smarter Decisions, and Sustainable Futures - Together

Deeply rooted in the Aotearoa context, the 2026 theme—Responsible resources, smarter decisions, and sustainable futures together—reflects a commitment to the unique path of our local industry.

About this event

This year’s conference programme will explore the technical excellence and social responsibility shaping our future. Designed for those driving the industry forward—from researchers and explorers to operators and new professionals—the event provides a unique forum for the minerals community and the next generation of students to connect, collaborate, and share knowledge. 

Key themes include geology and exploration; geotechnical; mining, metallurgy and processing; technology and innovation; environment, rehabilitation and water; closure; social governance; project updates; health and safety; operations and systems improvement.

Keynote Speakers

New Zealand’s Minerals Moment: Strategy, Scarcity, and the Capability Gap
Professor JR Rowland, University of Auckland  

Designing for Closure: Fast-Track Permitting Through Better Mine Landforms and Cover Systems
Mike O’Kane MAusIMM, Okane Consultants

Sponsorship Opportunities

Sponsoring or exhibiting at the conference provides a valuable opportunity to showcase your organisation, strengthen brand visibility, and connect directly with industry leaders, decision-makers, and the next generation of professionals.

Click here to view the Sponsorship Prospectus.

Abstract Key dates

Abstract submissions closed
Notification to speakers: 29 May 2026

Explorers Field Skills

This one day field trip will visit the active geothermal systems of Waiotapu and Orakei Korako to understand the surface manifestations of hydrothermal deposits looking at the variation in surface features due to chemistry, mineralisation, structure and change in these systems overtime to understand the implications for exploring for mineralisation in fossilised versions.

Help us celebrate 60 years of AusIMM New Zealand

The New Zealand Branch is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, and are putting together a collection of historical photos that capture the people, events and moments that have shaped the Branch over the past six decades.  If you have some great photos from past conferences, site visits, dinners or milestones, we would love to see them. Selected images will be displayed throughout the conference as part of a visual celebration as we look back, share stories and celebrate 60 years of community and connection.

Please email images to newzealand@ausimm.com.au