Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland has secured the International Confederation of Principals (ICP) World Convention for 2026, with an expected 3000 principals from around the world converging at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) in September.
The bid, a collaborative effort between the New Zealand Principals’ Federation (NZPF), Auckland Convention Bureau (ACB), and Tourism New Zealand, received widespread support.
NZPF President Leanne Otene highlighted the opportunity to showcase New Zealand’s educational prowess and address global challenges such as declining enrollment and AI integration. “Hosting the convention in New Zealand will expose New Zealand’s educators to the world’s leading researchers and the top international speakers in this sector. Conversely, we have some incredibly good researchers in New Zealand, and we can put them on the world stage. It’s a great opportunity.”
Auckland’s cultural diversity and welcoming reputation played a significant role in winning the bid, with expectations of a $4.6 million boost to the economy.
The event promises to foster collaboration, innovation, and cultural exchange, solidifying New Zealand’s position on the global education stage.