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.

TUESDAY 22 SEPTEMBER: 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 7:30am

Session #1: 08:30 am to 10:15 am

Welcome to Conference

Speakers:

• Rachel Madden, President, CBAFF
• KEYNOTE: Hon Casey Costello, Minister of Customs
• KEYNOTE: Tony Alexander, Economist

Session #2: 11 am to 12:30 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.

Session #3: 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm

Diversity, Sustainability & 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.

Session #4: 3:30 pm to 5:20 pm

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.

Exhibition Hall & Barista Coffee open from 7:30am

Prize Draw by Couriers Direct: 8:30am (be in the room to win!)

Session #5: 08:30 am 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.

Session #6: 10:45 am to 12:25 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.

Session #7: 1:25 pm to 2:55 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

Session #8: 3:25 pm to 4:55 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.

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30th Anniversary Conference Dinner

CBAFF 30th Anniversary Conference Dinner

Pre-Dinner Drinks: 6:30 to 7:00 pm in Rakaia Foyer

Gala Dinner: 7:00pm to 11pm in the Rakaia Room

Wear something with blue & gold (CBAFF colours!)