Wānaka has long been renowned as a place of learning.
Day One of Wao Summit 2026 invites us to reconnect with the meaning of place by stepping back to see the bigger picture.
Featuring an exceptional line up of leading academics, researchers and thought leaders, the day explores the interconnected systems that shape our world through the lenses of climate, health, systems thinking, nature, resources and democracy. Challenging assumptions and expanding perspectives, this is the event you never knew you needed, offering the knowledge, context and inspiration to better understand an increasingly complex world and our place within it.
DAY PROGRAMME
Tuesday 27 July
10:00AM: Welcome with Monique Kelly
10:30AM: Systems not Silos
11:15AM: The Climate Health Nexus
12:00PM: Te Taiao Lunch
1:00PM: Beyond Climate
1:45PM: Investing in Nature
2:30PM: Afternoon Tea
3:00PM: Critical Minerals: At What Cost?
3:45PM: The Afterlife of Plastics
5:30PM: Photography Exhibition: Once Were Farmers
6:30PM: Evening Kōrero - The Election Conversation (seperate Kōrero ticket required)
Schedule subject to change, any updates will be communicated here and to ticket holders.
SESSION DETAILS - CLICK ON A SESSION FOR FULL DETAILS
