Welcome to Christchurch

TIMELINE

• Registration desk: Pick up your name badge from midday
• Exhibitor pack-in: 1pm to 5.30pm
• Council Meeting: 11am to 1pm (Crowne Hotel)

SITE VISITS - 2pm to 5pm

• We have an exciting range of site tours under development. More information coming soon.

WELCOME FUNCTION - 5:30pm to 7pm

• In the Waitaki Room at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre
• Connect with colleagues with drinks and canapes.
• Welcome from the Mayor of Christchurch.

Exhibition Hall & Barista Coffee open from 8am

Session #1: 09:00 to 10:30 am

Welcome to Conference

Speakers:

• Rachel Madden, President, CBAFF
• KEYNOTE: Tony Alexander, Economist - Read more

Session #2: 11:15 to 12:45 pm

Connection

The In-Cite Roundtable Discussion Groups (speed dating format) are a fast-paced networking experience designed to break down silos, spark new relationships, and unlock collaboration across sectors. This is where introductions turn into real conversations between peers across the supply chain ecosystem.

Speakers:

• Greg Ward, Facilitator
• All of you!

Session #3: 1:45 to 3:15 pm

Diversity & Governance

Representatives from shipping lines, ports, and across the industry will first share brief updates on what is happening in their sector, followed by insights into what their organisations are doing internally to promote and support diversity- through people, policy, and culture. This will then flow into a panel discussion on diversity, sustainability, and governance, exploring broader industry progress and the role of ESG in shaping more responsible supply chains. Slido will be enabled to support audience engagement and questions.

Speakers:

• KEYNOTE: Ziena Jalil, ex trade commissioner Singapore - read more
• Tessa Auelua, Ports of Auckland
• Adele Wilson, KiwiRail
• Abbey Clapp, Port of Lyttelton
• More speakers to be announced soon

Session #4: 3:45 to 5:15 pm

Prize Draw by Couriers Direct: 3:45pm (be in the room to win!)

Security & Border Protect

Security remains a critical priority in a rapidly evolving global environment. This theme focuses on real-world challenges in protecting the border, managing compliance, and maintaining supply chain integrity while enabling trade. It highlights the importance of collaboration, capability, and continuous improvement in a high-risk environment.

Speakers:

• KEYNOTE: Minister (to be confirmed)
• David Willing & Jim Finlayson, CAA
• Stuart Anderson MPI
• Dianne McDermott, Biosecurity NZ
• More speakers to be announced soon

Exhibition Hall & Barista Coffee open from 8am

Prize Draw by Couriers Direct: 8:20am (be in the room to win!)

Session #5: 08:20 to 10:00 am

Geopolitics and Supply Chain Disruptions

Geopolitical instability continues to shape global trade and logistics in real time. This session focuses on how industry is actively navigating ongoing disruption through Business Continuity Planning (BCP), scenario planning, and adaptive operational strategies. It is about practical resilience and how organisations respond, adjust, and continue to operate in uncertainty.

Speakers:

• Andrew Martin, Longame
• Simon Cartwright, Hesketh Henry
• Representatives from NZTE, MBIE, MFAT, MOT, NZ Export (names to be confirmed soon)

Session #6: 10:45 to 12:15 pm

Upskilling for the Future

The future of the industry depends on the capability of its people. This theme explores workforce development, training pathways, and leadership capability across the supply chain sector. It focuses on how the industry can better attract, retain, and grow talent to meet both current demands and future challenges.

Speakers:

• Daniel Watson, Vertech
• Emma Hope, Toll Group
• Samantha McNorton, Transport ISB
• Geoff Young, Trusted Advisor Network
• More speakers to be announced soon

Session #3: 1:15 to 2:45 pm

AI, Technology & Productivity

Technology is transforming how supply chains operate, driving efficiency, visibility, and smarter decision-making. This session explores how AI and digital tools are already being applied across the industry to improve productivity, reduce friction, and enhance performance. The focus is on real-world adoption and practical impact

Speakers:

• KEYNOTE: Matt Ensor, KiaOra AI - read more
• Matthew Abercromby, Wise Tech
• Blair Hamill, Port of Tauranga
• More speakers to be announced soon

Session #4: 3:15 to 5:00 pm

Looking Ahead & Conference Close

This session recognises the next generation and their role in shaping what comes next. It is a moment to reflect on 30 years of progress and reaffirm a shared commitment to building a more connected, resilient, and future-ready supply chain industry.

Speakers:

• Rachel Madden, President CBAFF
• Lisa Coleman
• More speakers to be announced soon

CBAFF 30th Anniversary Conference Dinner

6:30 to 7:00 pm in Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, Rakaia Foyer

7:00pm to 11pm in the Rakaia Room

Wear something with blue & gold (CBAFF colours!)