Welcome to the
2026 NZSEE Annual Technical Conference

Preparing for the Big One: Innovating for a New Era of Resilience

This year’s theme, “Preparing for the Big One: Innovating for a New Era of Resilience”, reflects the growing urgency and responsibility we share as a profession to anticipate and adapt to the seismic risks facing Aotearoa New Zealand. As our understanding of earthquake hazards evolves - driven by updates to the National Seismic Hazard Model and the Earthquake Loadings Technical Standard - we must also evolve our engineering research, technologies, policies and practices to meet the demands of a more resilient and sustainable future.

The conference will provide a vital platform for professionals across disciplines to connect, share insights, and explore innovations that strengthen our collective readiness. We anticipate a rich technical programme featuring keynote addresses, special sessions, and presentations that span the latest research in seismology, earthquake and geotechnical engineering, resilient building and infrastructure design, and the social and policy dimensions of seismic risk. This year, we will also spotlight emerging tools and technologies - from advanced simulation and modelling to digital twins and AI-driven design - that are reshaping how we design, prepare for and respond to major seismic events.

As always, the conference website will be updated regularly with programme details, speaker announcements, and activities. We encourage you to check in often and begin planning your visit.

We look forward to welcoming you to Wellington for three days of thought-provoking discussion, collaboration, and inspiration as we prepare for the challenges - and opportunities - ahead.