Making Time for What Matters

4 February 2026

Each year, the Clubs New Zealand Conference, AGM & EXPO brings together clubs from across the country to connect, learn and strengthen the future of our sector.

With registrations now open for our 2026 Conference at New Plymouth Club, we know many clubs are weighing up whether they can attend. That decision isn’t always easy, particularly in the current environment.

Over time, we’ve heard a number of common reason clubs give for not coming along. They’re completely understandable, but they’re also worth revisiting.

“We just can’t afford it right now”

Budgets are tight for many clubs, and every dollar matters. But Conference is not simply a cost, it’s an investment in your people, your governance and your club.

We also work hard to ensure Conference is as cost effective as possible. Each year we regularly test the market, and our registration fees consistently come in considerable cheaper than comparable events, while still delivering high-quality speakers, content and networking opportunities.

Clubs consistently tell us that the ideas, connections and practical knowledge they gain at Conference pay dividends long after they return home. From compliance insights to membership strategies, the value often far outweighs the registration fees.

“We’re too busy to step away”

Running a club is demanding. Managers, committees and volunteers are often stretched thin.

But conference offers something rare: dedicated time away from day-to-day operations to think strategically, learn from others and reset.

We also recognise that in the past some clubs have sent large delegations to conference. While this is absolutely encouraged if it works for your club, it doesn’t need to be an all-or-nothing decision.

If only one representative can attend this year, that is still far better than not being represented at all. Even a single attendee can bring back valuable insights, contacts and ideas to share with the wider club.

“It’s the same every year”

While the format may feel familiar, the content never is. Each conference reflects the challenges and opportunities facing clubs now. This year’s programme focuses on regulatory change, governance, financial reporting, member engagement and practical operational tools, all delivered by people who understand the club environment.

No two conferences are the same, because no two years in the club sector are the same.

“It’s just gaming”

This is a common misconception. Conference is for clubs of all sizes and is absolutely not just about gaming. The programme covers a wide range of topics including employment, Sale and Supply of Alcohol, Finances, governance, marketing and member engagement.

The Expo also reflects this diversity, featuring suppliers offering a broad range of products and services designed to support clubs across operations – not just gaming.

Whether your club has gaming machines or not, there is meaningful content and value for everyone.

“We’ll just read the notes afterwards”

Presentations are only part of the experience.

Some of the most valuable moments happen between sessions, conversations over coffee, connections made on the expo floor, shared stories with other clubs facing similar challenges. These relationships and insights can’t be captured in meeting minutes or slide decks.

Why attending matters

Clubs that regularly participate in Conference tend to be better connected, better informed and better prepared for change. They build stronger networks, stay ahead of regulatory developments and return home with practical ideas they can implement immediately.

In an environment of ongoing reform and rising expectations, staying engaged has never been more important.

Registrations for the 2026 Clubs New Zealand Conference, AGM & EXPO close at the end of February. We strongly encourage every club to consider how they can be represented.

Click here for more information and to register

We look forward to welcoming you to New Plymouth in March.