Better Business Day at Wao Summit 2026: Equipping Businesses to Shape the Future

In a world where change is constant, the businesses that thrive won't be the ones that simply react - they'll be the ones that actively shape what's next.

That's the driving philosophy behind Better Business Day at Wao Summit 2026. Now in its ninth year, the Wao Summit runs from 27 to 31 October across Wānaka and Tāhuna Queenstown under the theme Resilience in Action.

Designed for business owners, entrepreneurs, leaders, and innovators, Better Business Day is focused on one simple but powerful goal: helping people build businesses that are not only successful today but ready for tomorrow.

Rather than trying to predict what the future holds, Better Business Day is about building the mindset, knowledge, and practical tools to confidently navigate uncertainty.

From Uncertainty to Opportunity

Technology is evolving at an unprecedented pace. Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries. Economic pressures continue to challenge businesses of every size. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer scale of change.

Instead of dwelling on uncertainty, the programme has been carefully curated to help attendees move from fear to possibility. Every session is designed to inspire fresh thinking while providing practical insights that can be applied immediately, whether you're launching a new venture, leading an established organisation, or looking to future-proof your business.

*Better Business Day 2025 - Photo Credit Deanna Gerlach*

Better Business Day at a Glance

The day will kick off with an optional all-levels yoga flow taught by Alison Corthell, followed by opportunities to connect over breakfast. Next renowned wellbeing and resilience expert Dr Denise Quinlan will set the tone for a day focused on possibility rather than limitation. Her practical workshop will explore how imagining hopeful futures can influence the way we lead today, sharing practical strategies that help leaders remain optimistic, adaptable, and effective.

Following a break for delicious kai and connection, award-winning science and technology journalist Peter Griffin will cut through the noise surrounding artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, offering a balanced, practical look at what these changes mean for businesses.

Later that afternoon Dr. Kate Meyer will introduce Planetary Insights, an environmental accounting platform. In this practical session, Kate will demonstrate how the platform works, from guided setup and data entry to evidence capture, environmental accounts and reporting outputs.

At the Business as a Force of Good session, we will hear from inspiring purpose driven business leaders redefining success by creating value for people, communities and the planet alongside strong commercial outcomes.

This year's programme also places a stronger emphasis on connection. Following feedback from previous attendees, we've built in longer breaks and relaxed shared meals, creating more opportunities to exchange ideas, build relationships, and learn from fellow business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.

Find the full programme and speaker lineup here: Better Business Day Programme.

Better Business Means Better Communities

While the name is Better Business Day, its impact extends far beyond the workplace.

Strong businesses create stronger communities. Confident leaders inspire positive change. Innovative organisations help build resilient regions.

That's why the event isn't solely about business growth. It's about creating leaders who contribute to thriving communities and a more sustainable future for everyone.

The conversations throughout the day encourage attendees to think bigger than quarterly results, exploring how businesses can create lasting value for their people, customers, and communities.

Join the Conversation

Perhaps the most exciting part of Better Business Day isn't any single speaker or workshop; it's the people who attend.

Each year, the Summit brings together an extraordinary mix of business owners, entrepreneurs, community leaders, students, innovators, and changemakers who all share a common goal: creating a better future for our region.

There's something uniquely energising about being surrounded by people asking big questions, sharing bold ideas, and collaborating on practical solutions.

Attendees consistently leave feeling optimistic, encouraged by the incredible work already happening across the community and inspired by what's possible when people come together with a shared purpose.

If you're looking for fresh ideas, meaningful connections, and practical tools to help your business navigate the future with confidence, Better Business Day at Wao Summit 2026 is the place to be.

Because the future isn't something we wait for - it's something we create together.

Early bird tickets on sale now

Early bird tickets are on sale now for $81 (full price $90), available for a limited amount and time - don't miss out! The Better Business Day Pass covers the optional early morning yoga flow, breakfast, all workshops and sessions, two tea breaks, and delicious lunch catered by the Dripping Bowl.

Book your Better Business Day Pass atevents.humanitix.com/wao-summit-2026/tickets