NZATD Awards: How to apply and Win!

Competency Framework: L&D Practice, 

In this webinar we will hear from some of the NZATD Award Winners. They will share their experiences in applying and winning these awards including how they prepared and where they focused their efforts. We'll also hear what winning means for them (and their teams).

The NZATD awards have great standing in our profession now which showed in the number and caliber of applications

If you are thinking of applying next year (and you should!) then this is the session for you. It is the right time to start thinking about your application and the project/work that will get you onto that podium in 2026.

Event Access: The link to access this event can be found in the Additional Information section of the Registration Confirmation and Reminder emails.  If you do not receive these emails, please check your spam or junk folders. 

Host: Lower North Island

Event eligibility: This event is open to NZATD members, affiliates and non-members.

Registering for this event:

• Prices exclude GST.
• Members can register for this event by logging in using their member login details.
• Affiliates: (HRNZ, AITD, CDANZ, FLANZ, ICF, NZOQ, PSANZ, TechCommNZ) can attend at member rates. When registering, follow the non-member registration process and use the 'Online Affiliate' promo code to access the member rate. Contact your affiliate administrator for this code.

Cancellations and Attendance:

• Please give 48 hours notice of cancellation.
• Once registered, you will be expected to pay regardless of attendance.
• Substitutions permitted if transferred to someone holding the same
• ticket type e.g. member. Non-members are not permitted to attend in place of a member.

Sick of virtual sessions where you don’t actually get to meet anyone?

Wish you could swap notes with other L&D, Training & Development pros who get it - the real challenges, the wins, and the messy middle in between?

Join us for a 45-minute NZATD Virtual Lunch & Learn where it’s all about real conversation, fresh ideas, and building connections.

No passive watching - this session is fast-paced, interactive, and designed to get you in and out with practical takeaways and a few new mates in the industry.

Expect multiple breakout rooms, new questions each round, and the chance to learn from others who are as passionate about training and development as you are. You’ll walk away with not just new insights, but also the kind of connections that remind you why you love this work.

Bring your lunch, bring your curiosity, and let’s bring a new kind of NZATD event to life.

Competency Framework: All of them

Event Access: The link to access this event can be found in the Additional Information section of the Registration Confirmation and Reminder emails.  If you do not receive these emails, please check your spam or junk folders. 

Host: Upper North Island

Event eligibility: This event is open to NZATD members, affiliates and non-members.

Registering for this event:

• Prices exclude GST.
• Members can register for this event by logging in using their member login details.
• Affiliates: (HRNZ, AITD, CDANZ, FLANZ, ICF, NZOQ, PSANZ, TechCommNZ) can attend at member rates. When registering, follow the non-member registration process and use the 'Online Affiliate' promo code to access the member rate. Contact your affiliate administrator for this code.

Cancellations and Attendance:

• Please give 48 hours notice of cancellation.
• Once registered, you will be expected to pay regardless of attendance.
• Substitutions permitted if transferred to someone holding the same
• ticket type e.g. member. Non-members are not permitted to attend in place of a member.

Last year, we explored ChatGPT. This year, AI has learnt to talk to your other tools. Join Karl Hartley & Alesha Honnor for a practical update on how AI is reshaping L&D workflows in 2025.

We'll explore what happens when AI connects directly with the software you already use, look at new workflow patterns emerging in the industry, and discuss what's actually working for L&D teams right now.

See real examples in action: Claude AI creating storyboards using Canva, ChatGPT autonomous agents that research and draft your projects overnight, NotebookLM transforming any document into explainer videos and podcasts, and ElevenLabs bringing your training scenarios to life with realistic character voices. Use Gemini's Nano Banana to maintain consistent characters across your visual content. They're tools you can use today. We'll focus on practical implementation, not sci-fi scenarios.

Competency Framework: Learning Design and Facilitation

Speakers: Karl Hartley and Alesha Honnor

Since its inception in January 2017, Epic Learning has grown into a strong team of designers and educators located across New Zealand and Australia. We work in a flexible digital environment that leverages the best of technology to enable a new way for working for our highly competent team. Karl Hartley is part of the team at Epic and will be joined by Alesha Honnor from Avetta. Alesha Honnor is a Senior eLearning Designer at Avetta who transforms complex ideas into engaging digital learning experiences. Based in Tauranga, she blends her graphic design background with educational expertise to create training that people actually want to complete. Her approach focuses on making complicated concepts feel simple and turning learning into an adventure rather than a chore. Passionate about AI and its potential in education, Alesha is constantly exploring innovative ways to integrate it into learning experiences, and to streamline her workflow. When not designing digital learning experiences or mentoring others in the field, Alesha enjoys baking bread, video games, getting crafty, running around with her dogs, and exploring new places.

Event Access: The link to access this event can be found in the Additional Information section of the Registration Confirmation and Reminder emails.  If you do not receive these emails, please check your spam or junk folders. 

Host: South Island Branch

Event eligibility: This event is open to NZATD members, affiliates and non-members.

Registering for this event:

• Prices exclude GST.
• Members can register for this event by logging in using their member login details.
• Affiliates: (HRNZ, AITD, CDANZ, FLANZ, ICF, NZOQ, PSANZ, TechCommNZ) can attend at member rates. When registering, follow the non-member registration process and use the 'Online Affiliate' promo code to access the member rate. Contact your affiliate administrator for this code.

Cancellations and Attendance:

• Please give 48 hours notice of cancellation.
• Once registered, you will be expected to pay regardless of attendance.
• Substitutions permitted if transferred to someone holding the same
• ticket type e.g. member. Non-members are not permitted to attend in place of a member.

Start the day with a hot cup of coffee and engaging conversation with fellow L&D professionals!

This month's focus question will be advised soon, however if there is a topic you would like discussed, please email us at events@nzatd.org.nz.

Join us in the central city for breakfast, expand your network, share your latest projects, and discover what others are working on. Broaden your thinking with great conversation and get invigorated & inspired over a morning coffee or breakfast.

Note: This year, breakfast events will be held every second month.

Host: Upper North Island

Event eligibility: This event is open to NZATD members, affiliates and non-members.

Registering for this event:

• Prices exclude GST.
• Members can register for this event by logging in using their member login details.
• Affiliates: (HRNZ, AITD, CDANZ, FLANZ, ICF, NZOQ, PSANZ, TechCommNZ) can attend at member rates. When registering, follow the non-member registration process and use the 'Online Affiliate' promo code to access the member rate. Contact your affiliate administrator for this code.

Cancellations and Attendance:

• Please give 48 hours notice of cancellation.
• Once registered, you will be expected to pay regardless of attendance.
• Substitutions permitted if transferred to someone holding the same
• ticket type e.g. member. Non-members are not permitted to attend in place of a member.

Welcome to NZATD! We’re excited to have you join our vibrant community of learning and development professionals across Aotearoa New Zealand.

This one-hour online session is designed to help you get started with your membership and make the most of what NZATD has to offer. You’ll get a friendly introduction to our network, upcoming events, professional development opportunities, and ways to get involved.

It’s also a great chance to meet other new members, ask questions, and begin building connections within the NZATD whānau. Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned professional, we’re here to support your journey.

What to expect:

• A brief overview of NZATD and how we support our members
• Tips on navigating your membership benefits
• Opportunities to connect with fellow new members
• Time for Q&A and sharing your interests

We look forward to welcoming you!

Session Theme and Audience: 

Welcoming new members and introducing them to the NZATD community, resources, and opportunities for professional growth.

This session is all about connection, orientation, and inspiration. We’ll explore how NZATD supports learning and development professionals across Aotearoa and how you can get involved from day one.

Session Audience: 

Whether you're just starting out or bringing years of experience, this session is designed to help you feel at home in the NZATD whānau and begin building your network.

Event Access: The link to access this event can be found in the Additional Information section of the Registration Confirmation and Reminder emails.  If you do not receive these emails, please check your spam or junk folders. 

Host: National Executive

Event eligibility: This event is open to NZATD members or those wanting to join.

Registering for this event:

• Members can register for this event by logging in using their member login details.

STOP CHASING HAPPINESS

Greg Kettner is on a mission to help 1 million people WorkHappy.

His keynote, "The Power of Laughter," will inspire and empower your workforce to create a WorkHappy culture that prioritises people before profits.

The WorkHappy Framework has been developed from lessons learned during his 27-year sales and leadership career with such organisations as Nike, SAP, the National Hockey League, Business Objects, and BuildDirect.

Greg is a world-class connector who has had beers with Wayne Gretzky, shared the stage with Robin Williams, and almost knocked over Queen Elizabeth.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Understand the Connection Between Happiness and Productivity

2. Three Strategies for Reducing Stress Through Happiness

3. Recognise the Impact of Happiness on Your Mental Health

Companies such as Coca-Cola, RE/MAX, Ford, SYSPRO, and Kapersky now use the  WorkHappy framework and have reduced stress, increased productivity, and have more well-being conversations.

Speaker:  Greg Kettner

Greg Kettner has been making others laugh ever since he was a kid.

He was born and raised in Hong Kong, has never had a cup of coffee, and has never seen a Star Wars movie.

Greg has made thousands of people laugh, sold over $12 million in products and services, and shared the comedy stage with the late Robin Williams.

When he is not helping the professional sports team WorkHappy, he enjoys spending time with his wife & daughter, golfing, or cooking a delicious meal.

What you can look forward to in Greg’s talk:

• Better mental health; how laughter affects our lives…
• The secret Robin Williams shared with Greg after a show…
• The big difference between getting laughs vs. giving laughs…
• How we can change the world…

Greg hopes to inspire you, touch your heartstrings, and motivate you to laugh every single day of your life.

Host: Upper North Island

Event eligibility: This event is open to NZATD members, affiliates and non-members.

Registering for this event:

• Prices exclude GST.
• Members can register for this event by logging in using their member login details.
• Affiliates: (HRNZ, AITD, CDANZ, FLANZ, ICF, NZOQ, PSANZ, TechCommNZ) can attend at member rates. When registering, follow the non-member registration process and use the 'Online Affiliate' promo code to access the member rate. Contact your affiliate administrator for this code.

Cancellations and Attendance:

• Please give 48 hours notice of cancellation.
• Once registered, you will be expected to pay regardless of attendance.
• Substitutions permitted if transferred to someone holding the same ticket type e.g. member. Non-members are not permitted to attend in place of a member.

AI is reshaping the workplace, but not by replacing humans - AI is redefining what human work means.

This workshop explores how AI is creating both risk and opportunity, and how to future-proof your career by partnering with the tools of tomorrow, today. During this interactive workshop, you will get a clear view of what’s possible with AI, explore current tools, and see how others are using them in their industries.

• Understand which roles AI threatens, enhances, or creates.
• Learn how to pivot your skills to stay relevant in an AI-first economy.
• Explore strategies to lead through change and redefine human value at work.

AGENDA:

5:30 - 6:00pm:  Networking, both in-person and online

6:00 - 7:00pm:  AI and the Future of Work

Competency Framework: Learning Design, Adult Learning

Speaker: Caelan Huntress

Caelan is a dynamic trainer and public speaker who blends his background in circus arts with decades of experience in marketing automation and event facilitation. His unique approach to teaching leverages play and interactivity to enhance learning and engagement.

As the Head of Learning and Enablement at Agentic Intelligence, Caelan specialises in designing and delivering training programmes that empower teams to adopt AI tools effectively, fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability.

Host: South Island

Event eligibility: This event is open to NZATD members, affiliates and non-members.

Registering for this event:

• Prices exclude GST.
• Members can register for this event by logging in using their member login details.
• Affiliates: (HRNZ, AITD, CDANZ, FLANZ, ICF, NZOQ, PSANZ, TechCommNZ) can attend at member rates. When registering, follow the non-member registration process and use the 'Online Affiliate' promo code to access the member rate. Contact your affiliate administrator for this code.

Cancellations and Attendance:

• Please give 48 hours notice of cancellation.
• Once registered, you will be expected to pay regardless of attendance.
• Substitutions permitted if transferred to someone holding the same
• ticket type e.g. member. Non-members are not permitted to attend in place of a member.

NETWORKING AND COLLABORATION: 

The NAPIER Morning Edition

Kickstart your day with an invigorating breakfast gathering designed for professionals in the Hawkes Bay who are passionate about learning and growth. This Napier breakfast event is the perfect opportunity to:

• Expand Your Network: Meet like-minded individuals and build valuable connections.
• Exchange Experiences: Share insights and learn from the diverse experiences of your peers.
• Stay Updated: Discover the latest trends and developments in your field.

As we enjoy our morning coffee and breakfast, engage in stimulating conversations that will broaden your perspectives and inspire you for the day ahead. This isn't just a meet-up; it's a chance to connect, grow, and be part of a community that values knowledge and collaboration.

Why Attend?

• Convenient Location: Adoro Ahuriri offers easy street parking and a reserved table for our group.
• Inclusive Event: Open to both NZATD members and non-members. Feel free to invite colleagues and friends who might benefit from this event.
• Cost: The event is free to attend; simply pay for what you eat or drink.

Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to network and collaborate with fellow professionals. We look forward to seeing you there!

Host: Lower North Island

Event eligibility: This event is open to NZATD members, affiliates and non-members.

Registering for this event:

• Members can register for this event by logging in using their member login details.
• Affiliates: (HRNZ, AITD, CDANZ, FLANZ, ICF, NZOQ, PSANZ, TechCommNZ) can attend at member rates. When registering, follow the non-member registration process and use the 'Online Affiliate' promo code to access the member rate. Contact your affiliate administrator for this code.

Cancellations and Attendance:

• Please give 24 hours notice of cancellation.

The New Zealand Association for Training and Development hereby gives notice of the Annual General Meeting for 2025.

Date: Wednesday 19 November 2025

Time: 7:00pm - 8:00pm

This is a virtual meeting, and the link will be sent in the confirmation email, as well as reminder emails.

All relevant documents (including agenda) will be available in the members’ only area of the NZATD website prior to the meeting.

AGENDA:

• Apologies and proxies
• Voting procedures
• Minutes of the 2024 AGM
• Matters arising
• President's report
• Financial report
• Auditors Resolution
• Election of National Executive
• Constitution Update to new Incorporated Society Rules
• Any other business

NOTES:

• Any member of the association may attend the meeting as an observer.
• Each branch may send up to two voting delegates (must be current financial members).
• A copy of the Rules are in the My NZATD area of the website

Event Access: The link to access this event can be found in the Additional Information section of the Registration Confirmation and Reminder emails.  If you do not receive these emails, please check your spam or junk folders. 

Host: National

Event eligibility: This event is open to NZATD members.

Registering for this event:

• Members can register for this event by logging in using their member login details.

Cancellations and Attendance:

• Please give 48 hours notice of cancellation.

NETWORKING AND COLLABORATION: The HAMILTON Morning Edition

Join us for our regular breakfast gatherings with fellow professionals in the Waikato who share your passion for learning. It's the perfect opportunity to expand your network, exchange experiences, and discover the latest happenings in your field. 

As we enjoy our morning coffee or breakfast, let's engage in stimulating conversations that will broaden our perspectives and inspire us for the day ahead. This is more than just a meet-up; it's a chance to connect, grow, and be part of a community that values knowledge and collaboration.

We have chosen Cafe Fresca, 78 Alison Street, Hamilton Lake. The parking is easy, the food and drinks are great, the staff are friendly and we have the tables reserved, so we hope to see you all there

Please note that this event is open to NZATD members and non-members, so feel free to invite other people who you think might enjoy this.

This event is free; you just pay for what you eat or drink.

Host: Upper North Island

Event eligibility: This event is open to NZATD members, affiliates and non-members.

Registering for this event:

• Members can register for this event by logging in using their member login details.
• Affiliates: (HRNZ, AITD, CDANZ, FLANZ, ICF, NZOQ, PSANZ, TechCommNZ) can attend at member rates. When registering, follow the non-member registration process and use the 'Online Affiliate' promo code to access the member rate. Contact your affiliate administrator for this code.

Cancellations and Attendance:

• Please give 48 hours notice of cancellation.
• Once registered, you will be expected to pay regardless of attendance.
• Substitutions permitted if transferred to someone holding the same
• ticket type e.g. member. Non-members are not permitted to attend in place of a member.

End of year breakfast co-hosted with Catalyst.

Join us for a ‘Learning Tech knowledge breakfast’.

Catch up with your peers and enjoy breakfast while speed dating through a series of short knowledge cafe sessions on online learning practice.

8am-9.30am on Wednesday 26 November at Catalyst House.

Please RSVP for catering numbers. 

Competency Framework: Learning technology, Networking

Host: Lower North Island

Event eligibility: This event is open to NZATD members, affiliates and non-members.

Registering for this event:

• Prices exclude GST.
• Members can register for this event by logging in using their member login details.
• Affiliates: (HRNZ, AITD, CDANZ, FLANZ, ICF, NZOQ, PSANZ, TechCommNZ) can attend at member rates. When registering, follow the non-member registration process and use the 'Online Affiliate' promo code to access the member rate. Contact your affiliate administrator for this code.

Cancellations and Attendance:

• Please give 48 hours notice of cancellation.
• Once registered, you will be expected to pay regardless of attendance.
• Substitutions permitted if transferred to someone holding the same
• ticket type e.g. member. Non-members are not permitted to attend in place of a member.

NETWORKING AND COLLABORATION: 

The TAURANGA Morning Edition

After a fantastic first meeting in Tauranga, we have set up the next one, and invite any and all L&D people in and around Tauranga to kickstart your day with an invigorating breakfast gathering designed for professionals in the Bay of Plenty who are passionate about learning and growth. Our second Tauranga breakfast event is the perfect opportunity to:

• Expand Your Network: Meet like-minded individuals and build valuable connections.
• Exchange Experiences: Share insights and learn from the diverse experiences of your peers.
• Stay Updated: Discover the latest trends and developments in your field.

As we enjoy our morning coffee and breakfast, engage in stimulating conversations that will broaden your perspectives and inspire you for the day ahead. This isn't just a meet-up; it's a chance to connect, grow, and be part of a community that values knowledge and collaboration.

Why Attend?

• Convenient Location: Alimento Eatery offers easy street parking and a reserved table for our group.
• Inclusive Event: Open to both NZATD members and non-members. Feel free to invite colleagues and friends who might benefit from this event.
• Cost: The event is free to attend; simply pay for what you eat or drink.

Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to network and collaborate with fellow professionals. We look forward to seeing you there!

Host: Upper North Island

Event eligibility: This event is open to NZATD members, affiliates and non-members.

Registering for this event:

• Members can register for this event by logging in using their member login details.
• Affiliates: (HRNZ, AITD, CDANZ, FLANZ, ICF, NZOQ, PSANZ, TechCommNZ) can attend at member rates. When registering, follow the non-member registration process and use the 'Online Affiliate' promo code to access the member rate. Contact your affiliate administrator for this code.

Welcome to NZATD! We’re excited to have you join our vibrant community of learning and development professionals across Aotearoa New Zealand.

This one-hour online session is designed to help you get started with your membership and make the most of what NZATD has to offer. You’ll get a friendly introduction to our network, upcoming events, professional development opportunities, and ways to get involved.

It’s also a great chance to meet other new members, ask questions, and begin building connections within the NZATD whānau. Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned professional, we’re here to support your journey.

What to expect:

• A brief overview of NZATD and how we support our members
• Tips on navigating your membership benefits
• Opportunities to connect with fellow new members
• Time for Q&A and sharing your interests

We look forward to welcoming you!

Session Theme and Audience: 

Welcoming new members and introducing them to the NZATD community, resources, and opportunities for professional growth.

This session is all about connection, orientation, and inspiration. We’ll explore how NZATD supports learning and development professionals across Aotearoa and how you can get involved from day one.

Session Audience: 

Whether you're just starting out or bringing years of experience, this session is designed to help you feel at home in the NZATD whānau and begin building your network.

Event Access: The link to access this event can be found in the Additional Information section of the Registration Confirmation and Reminder emails.  If you do not receive these emails, please check your spam or junk folders. 

Host: National Executive

Event eligibility: This event is open to NZATD members or those wanting to join.

Registering for this event:

• Members can register for this event by logging in using their member login details.