Konnect Conference Agenda
Konnect delivers a complete conference experience - a full day of learning and industry insight, followed by an evening designed for connection.
The core programme is consistent across all locations, with special guests tailored to each city.
Day Conference
What to expect
Join us from 8am for a full day of conference sessions designed specifically for NZ Trade Group members. Konnect brings together leading voices from across the industry - suppliers, partners, and business experts - for a day packed with insights, practical learning, and a few surprises along the way.
You can expect:
Strategic industry updates and business insights
Sessions led by experienced industry voices and special guests
Practical takeaways you can apply in your business immediately
Dedicated time to connect with members, suppliers, and partners
Timing
8.00am - 9.00am
Registrations & Coffee
9.05am - 9.35am
Welcome & NZ Trade Group Update
Tait Grindley, Chief Operating Officer, NZ Trade Group
9.35am - 10.05am
Katipolt & Technology Update
Simon Wilson, Chief Technology Officer, Katipolt
10.05am - 10.25am
How we Support NZTG and Members
Vanessa Hislop, Key Account Manager, J. A. Russell Ltd
10.25am - 10.45am
Morning Tea Break
10.45am - 11.45am
J. A. Russell Ltd - Business Update & What’s New
Simon Jaffe, Stu McColl & Duncan Baker
11.45am - 12.15pm
Key note - Global Trends and AI Insights
Craig Grammer, Chief Executive, J. A. Russell Ltd
12.15pm - 12.45pm
Supplier Networking with J. A. Russell Ltd & Suppliers
12.45pm - 1.30pm
Lunch
1.30pm - 2.15pm
It’s Show Time - The Puzzle Factory LIVE
Alex Hulme with special guests
Auckland - Luke Kemeys, nextAdvisory + Keep the Change
2.15pm - 2.30pm
Intro to 2026 NZ Trade Group Awards
Tait Grindley, Chief Operating Officer, NZ Trade Group
2.30pm - 2.40pm
Professional Development Update
Andreas Kasoulides, Head of Training, Trade Master
2.40pm - 2.55pm
What’s Sparkies Need to Know - Updates to Standards and Regs
Storm Holgate, Electrical Training Specialist, Trade Master
2.55pm - 3.15pm
Afternoon Tea Break
3.15pm - 4.00pm
Special Guest Speaker
Auckland - Paddy Gower, Journalist and NZ Legend
4.00pm - 4.15pm
Final word and Wrap - the night is about to get started
Tait Grindley, Chief Operating Officer, NZ Trade Group
Evening Event
When the daytime sessions wrap, the experience continues with the Konnect evening event. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with entertainment, complimentary refreshments, and time to connect with the NZ Trade Group team, other members and industry partners. This is your chance to step away from the formal sessions and build real relationships in a more social setting.
Timing
4.30pm - 8.00pm
Entertainment & After Party