21 and 22 September, Novotel Rotorua Lakeside

The 2018 Annual Conference theme is "The New Zealand Bar Association | Ngā Ahorangi Motuhake o te Ture at 30: Wisdom from the Past, Realities of the Present, and Ambitions for the Future”. The 30th anniversary of the NZBA gives us the opportunity to reflect on past experience, while considering ways in which to future-proof the bar.

In addition to a great line up of highly respected speakers, we are offering a casual dinner on the Friday, a formal dinner on the Saturday and a range of fun optional activities for the Saturday afternoon before the formal dinner.

Download the conference brochure

Programme

In addition to the topics addressed by our four keynote speakers, Bar Leaders Panels will present on the following topics: present and future challenges to the rule of law in New Zealand; The NZBA and the bar’s role in upholding the rule of law; the NZBA's report on access to justice and ongoing initiatives; the meaning of diversity and equality at the bar, protecting the concepts of independence, integrity and collegiality, and the future for advocates and advocacy.

Download the conference programme

Speakers

We are delighted to present four keynote speakers. 

From the United States, we have Caroline Adams Miller, recognised as a world leading expert in the areas of goal setting/accomplishment, grit, happiness and success. She has spent more than 30 years helping individuals, leaders and companies to achieve their goals.

We are also privileged to welcome the Minister of Justice Hon. Andrew Little, The Hon. Justice Helen Winkelmann and Virginia Hardy as keynote speakers.

Other speakers and panellists include: Chief Justice of New Zealand, The Rt. Hon. Dame Sian Elias GNZM,  Hon. Christopher Finlayson QC, The Hon. Justice Raynor Asher, The Rt. Hon. Sir Ted Thomas KNZM QC, Hon. John Wild QC, Kylie Nomchong SC, Stuart Grieve QC, Kate Davenport QC, Clive Elliott QC, Jonathan Eaton QC, Paul Radich QC, Paul Wicks QC, Victoria Casey QC, Maria Dew, Honor Ford, Josh McBride, Belinda Sellars and Natalie Walker.