Techweek is Back for 2026: Innovation, inspiration and impact across Aotearoa

Techweek, Aotearoa New Zealand’s national festival of tech and innovation, will return in 2026 from 18–24 May. The festival will once again bring together ideas, people and opportunities to help shape New Zealand’s future. “Techweek is about connecting our innovators with communities across the motu,” says Graeme Muller, CEO of the NZTech Group which runs the festival. “It’s where inspiration meets impact, and where great ideas find the partners they need to grow.”

Building on the momentum of Techweek25—which saw more than 20,000 attendees across 230 events nationwide—Techweek26 will showcase how Kiwi innovation is making an impact at home and around the world. “We’re focused on creating a programme that reflects New Zealand’s strengths and ambitions—from digital foundations and skills, to climate tech, health, and creative industries,” says Muller. “If you’ve got a story to tell or a solution to share, Techweek26 is your platform.”

A Festival for Everyone

The Techweek festival combines headline programmes with grassroots events across the motu, designed to connect tech with all corners of society. While final details of the 2026 programme are still under wraps, audiences can expect a mix of showcase events, panel discussions, tours, workshops and nationwide activations designed to engage people of all ages.

Importantly, Techweek26 focuses on four key audiences:

• NZ Tech Ecosystem – supporting founders, researchers, scale‑ups, investors and corporates to connect and grow
• International Delegations and Media – spotlighting Kiwi innovation to the world, with overseas partners participating in the programme
• Government Officials – opening conversations on how tech can address New Zealand’s biggest challenges
• Rangatahi / Youth – inspiring the next generation of innovators and creators

What’s Next for Techweek26

The 2026 themes will once again span six areas of impact — from strengthening critical infrastructure (“Foundations”) and solving societal challenges (“Social Good”), through to emerging opportunities in innovation, growth, and responsible governance.

Event submissions will open in early 2026, with organisers across New Zealand invited to bring their own unique ideas to the calendar. Hundreds of locally run events will join the curated headline programme, ensuring a festival that reflects the breadth and diversity of Aotearoa’s innovation ecosystem.

“Techweek is not just a festival for the tech sector,” says Muller. “It’s a week for all New Zealanders to explore how technology is shaping our lives and to imagine what’s possible.”

Save the Date

Techweek26 runs from 18–24 May 2026.

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