About the
Conference
Mo te Huihuinga
Purpose and Themes
The conference programme has been shaped to reflect both regional context and global relevance, offering space for reflection, debate, and practical insight.
Our speaking prompt this year is 'Manaakitanga', and provides an exploration of the way architecture provides support, generosity and hospitality for those that engage with it. In addtion, our programme will feature streams that offer deeper dives into contemporary issues including housing, economics, the Oceania region and more.
NZIA + CAA
This year’s in:situ Conference is co-located with the Commonwealth Association of Architects’ General Assembly. This year marks the 60th anniversary of the General Assembly, and the NZIA is deeply honoured to host it in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland for the first time.
The General Assembly brings together architecture institutes and professional bodies from across the Commonwealth and around the world to connect, collaborate and share knowledge at an international level.
In being selected to host this year’s General Assembly, the NZIA intends to expand the international connection opportunities for members through its in:situ Conference, and showcase for our international visitors the people, cultures and architecture that make our corner of the globe unique.
The Conference Brand Identity
Ko te korero
Two gatherings.
One Moana.
Many currents moving together.
Working in collaboration with artist, designer and Creative Director Arnya Karaitiana, we've developed a conference brand identity deeply reflective of our place in the world, the story of our joint gathering, and our aspirations for the shared journey attendees will take.
Set within Te Moananui-a-Kiwa, Aotearoa New Zealand sits at the crossroads of ocean, culture, and connection. In Te Ao Māori, the Moana is not a boundary but a living highway — carrying people, knowledge, and ideas between lands.
In 2026, in:situ and the Commonwealth Association of Architects General Assembly come together for the first time, uniting two gatherings as one. Like two islands held within the great ocean, this event brings architects from across the Pacific and beyond into shared dialogue, exchange, and collaboration.
At the heart of the identity is au — meaning both current and I am. It speaks to the inseparable relationship between people and environment, and to the power of many individuals moving together as a collective force. Inspired by pūhoro — a form expressing strength, momentum, and the wake of the waka — the identity invites participants to arrive, connect, and contribute to a shared journey, shaping the future of architecture through collective energy and purpose.
Why Attend
He aha te haere
The 2026 in:situ Conference will be the largest architecture event in Aotearoa.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to:
- Discover bold architectural ideas shaping resilient, future-ready communities across Aotearoa and the wider Pacific. The conference explores how design can respond to environmental, social, and cultural challenges with creativity and responsibility.
- Connect with architects, planners, designers, and thinkers from around the world working across disciplines. These conversations often spark collaborations, partnerships, and opportunities that continue long after the conference ends.
- Experience an international celebration of creativity and architectural achievement with the CAA Awards gala dinner, as well as the presentation of the 2025 NZIA Gold Medal.
- Engage directly with visionary speakers who challenge conventions and rethink the role of architecture today. Their insights will push you to question assumptions and expand how you approach design, leadership, and expressions of place.
- Recharge your creative energy alongside peers who share your passion for shaping cities and landscapes. The atmosphere is energising, generous, and full of new perspectives.
- Earn up to 100 CPD points toward your New Zealand architect registration.
in:situ 2026 +
CAA General Assembly