"Leading and learning in complex and changing environments."
"Ko te ārahi me te ako i rō whaitua whīwhiwhi, kōrure hoki."
ITENZ Conference 2025
Millennium Hotel Queenstown32 Frankton RoadQueenstown 16 -17 September 2025
Every year the ITENZ conference provides a unique opportunity to market and network with more than 125 private tertiary education providers and professionals to this two-day conference.
ITENZ CONFERENCE 2025
Keynote Speakers
James Laughlin
Leadership Strategist and Mental Skills Coach
Hon. Penny Simmonds, CNZM
MP for Invercargill, Minister of Vocational Education
ITENZ CONFERENCE 2025
Featured Speakers
Sahinde Pala
Group GM, International & Sector Engagement - ENZ
Grant Klinkum
Chief Executive, NZQA
Tim Fowler
Chief Executive, TEC
ITENZ CONFERENCE 2025
Breakout Sessions Speakers
Further speaker being added through July!
Phoebe Gill
Research Manager, Scarlatti
Dr Adam Barker
Director, Scarlatti
Maren Frerichs
CEO, Skills Active Te Mahi Ako
Stuart Martin
Founder, George Angus Consulting
Elizabeth Asbury
Pipi Learning
Dave Howden
CEO & Co-founder, SupaHuman AI
Paul Millar
Engagement Partner International Education, MBIE
Patrick Pheasant
Head of Education Partnerships, ANZ - PeopleCert
Sue West & Nina Mercep
Sue - (Tumuaki/CEO) & Nina - (Tutor/Illustrator) - Literacy Waitākere
Julie Sandbrook
JSS Consulting
Alex McKegg
Academic Manager, Edvance Workplace Training
Alan Kan
Co-Founder, Mission Ready
Jennifer Leahy
Sector Services Manager, South Island - Ako Aotearoa
Dr Marvin Hao Wu
Programme Manager, Research and Innovation
Tiffany Andrews
Academic Co-Manager, Fruition Horticulture
Missy Grey
Educator, Fruition Horticulture
Naidene Myers
Resource Developer, Fruition Horticulture
Dr Craig Hansen
Chief Executive Officer, Summit Institute
Brooke Lombard
Chief Visionary, RTO Works
George Makapatama
Deputy Director, ConCOVE Tūhura
Sharon-May McCrostie
Director, International and Sector Engagement, ENZ
ITENZ CONFERENCE 2025
Schedule
Arrival and Networking
Exhibitor Turbo Pitch
Morning Tea
Featured Session James Laughlin - Leadership Strategist and Mental Skills Coach
Lunch
The Value of Credentialing (The transformative potential of micro-credentials)
The rapid evolution of vocational education has underscored the transformative potential of micro-credentials in addressing skills gaps and fostering lifelong learning. This research investigates the role and impact of micro-credentials within New Zealand and around the world, offering a critical analysis of their effectiveness and alignment with industry needs. Drawing on an extensive international literature review and robust stakeholder engagement, the presentation will examine regulatory frameworks, terminology, and the practical applications of micro-credentials across various sectors.
My AI journey - what's worked, what hasn't
My presentation will share my journey as an Academic Manager using AI, from my first fumbling's with ChatGPT to agentic AI. This will be an honest reveal of what has worked, what hasn't, where I've saved time and what have been the time wasters. I hope to use the time to also ask participants to share their AI tip or trick, as we figure out how to harness this technology to sort through the complexities of quality and compliance.
Against the Odds: How PTE Practitioners Secure Competitive Research Funding without Dedicated Infrastructure – An Evaluator’s Perspective
In Aotearoa New Zealand’s tertiary education landscape, Private Training Establishments (PTEs) typically operate without the research infrastructure available in universities. They often lack access to dedicated research offices, professional grant writing support, and formally allocated research time. Despite these structural limitations, PTE educators have successfully secured competitive research funding through opportunities such as Ako Aotearoa Research and Innovation Agenda (AARIA). This presentation shares insights from an evaluator’s perspective on how these outcomes were achieved and how they can be applied more broadly. Drawing on data and case studies from the 2024 and 2025 AARIA Contestable Funding Rounds, the session explores what enabled these proposals to succeed and offers practical lessons for educators and leaders across the sector.
Sharon-May McCrostie Director International & Sector Engagement - Education New Zealand presentation
Authentic Leadership in a Rapidly Changing Sector
In a sector marked by constant change, competing demands, and evolving expectations, leaders in VET must navigate uncertainty while staying true to their values. This interactive session will explore what it means to be a real, authentic leader—one who builds resilience, embraces vulnerability, and leads with confidence, even in the face of the unknown. Through real-world discussions and practical strategies, we’ll tackle three key leadership challenges: - How do I build a resilient and adaptable team? Learn how to foster a culture of trust, growth, and continuous learning to help your team thrive through change. - How do I show vulnerability as a leader without losing credibility? Discover the power of authentic leadership—why honesty, transparency, and self-awareness strengthen, rather than weaken, your influence. - How do I lead when I don’t have all the answers? Develop strategies to lead with confidence, make decisions under uncertainty, and empower your team even when the future is unclear. By the end of this session, you’ll walk away with actionable insights, practical tools, and a renewed sense of confidence in your leadership journey. This isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about leading with authenticity, adaptability, and impact.
Reciprocity - Creating and Publishing Learner Stories
Literacy Waitākere in partnership with Auckland Council Libraries has published nine books that are on the shelves of Auckland Libraries and many libraries across the motu. The books are graded to the TEC Learning Progressions and can be used for recreational reading as well as teaching resources. Sue West and Nina Mercep will take you on a journey into the stories of adult learners and how the books are developed with the learners. There are four more books currently in production and two larger format books funded by the Ministry of Ethnic Communities.
Afternoon Tea
When and how do learners learn online?
The learner profile has changed and increasing numbers of vocational education and training providers are building flexibility into their programmes by offering online learning. Although learners report high satisfaction with (good quality) eLearning, there is a paucity of data on how learners actually engage. Method. GA4 event-based tracking was embedded into the Pipi Learning Moodle LMS, which currently hosts eLearning from six vocational education and training providers. Learners were required to allow tracking, creating a sample population of users. Robust user data protection settings were enabled, so certain information including specific course participation and location data were anonymised.
“Giving Learners a Voice": Piloting an AI Oral-Assessment Agent in NZ Vocational Training
Written assessments alienate learners who face literacy, neurodiversity, location or language barriers. This prevents many from reaching their potential in formal education. To address this, Scarlatti (funded by the Food and Fibre CoVE) has built and piloted what may be the world's first conversational AI agent for formal oral assessment. Come up to speed in our session, which will include: A global snapshot – Drawing on a rolling two-monthly scan of AI products and pilots, we will map the newest conversational AI tools in education, and highlight shifts in public perception. Demo and NZ case study - We will conduct a live demo of our agent, and share the results of recent NZ pilots with dairy and horticulture learners. How to guide & lessons learnt – A rapid walkthrough of our step-by-step playbook: how to decide whether an agent is right for your learners, and how to build, pilot and evaluate it. We will share the lessons we learnt the hard way. Interactive Q&A – We will open the floor for attendees to ask questions. Participants will leave with: - A global snapshot on AI in assessment - QR code access to the demo - A "is this right for us?" checklist - A step-by-step playbook on how to make one.
Navigating the Human Element: Enhancing Student Experience, Equity, and Resilience in High-Stakes Testing
In the turbulent seas of international education, ensuring fair, accessible, and supportive assessment practices is paramount. This presentation delves into the critical role of human interaction in high-stakes testing. This workshop will explore how integrating real human examiners and support staff directly impacts the student experience, fostering resilience and promoting equitable outcomes for all, including LGBTIQA+, non-binary and neurodiverse students.
Educator as Leader: Shaping the Future of Learning in an AI World
Artificial intelligence is rewriting the rules of knowledge, creativity, and communication—challenging educators to ask not just how we teach, but why. When students can generate essays, ideas, or even code in seconds, what becomes the true value of education? What role will educators play? In this future-focused keynote, award-winning education and technology leader Alan Kan explores how educators and academic leaders can confidently guide learning in an AI-powered world. More than just a tech shift, AI presents an opportunity to redesign the very heart of education—how we teach, how we assess, and how we prepare learners for a rapidly evolving future.
Finding our way back: a story of culture and commitment
I’m not an expert in biculturalism. I’m not well spoken in te reo Māori, or even my own mother tongue, German. But I’ve had the privilege of being part of a powerful cultural journey. This presentation shares the journey of Skills Active Aotearoa - an organisation that began its bicultural path over 30 years ago, and nearly lost it. In the lead-up to the 2019 reform, we got caught in the noise. System change. Pressure. Survival. Somewhere in all that, our identity slipped. By the time we set up Te Mahi Ako in 2022, we had made a commitment to return to what mattered. We started a journey - creating new roles, growing our internal cultural capability, and backing our people to lead. It was honest and hard at times. But the shift was real.
Networking and ITENZ Awards function
Arrival and Networking
Featured Session Hon Penny Simmonds
Morning Tea
ConCoVE Tūhura Workshop
How NZ PTEs Are Using AI to revolutionise Assessments and Study Guides
New Zealand’s Private Training Establishments (PTEs) face increasing demands: staying audit-ready, delivering industry-relevant learning, and meeting the expectations of today’s diverse learners — all within the rigorous framework of NZQA standards. This session will showcase real-world applications of AI already in use across Aotearoa’s education sector. We’ll share tangible examples of how forward-thinking PTEs are integrating artificial intelligence to reduce administrative burden, accelerate resource development, and improve learner outcomes - while honouring cultural values and integrity. This isn’t about future possibilities - it’s a current movement, driven by the sector’s most innovative providers. You’ll leave with actionable insights and field-tested learnings from AI-powered solutions in everyday use case.
The Impact of Trauma on Learning: Leading with Care in Complex Times Te Painga o te Trauma ki runga I te Ako: Te Arataki me te Atawhai I nga wa Matatini
Drawing on twelve years of experience as an educator across three Christchurch prisons, Ako Aotearoa Southern Manager, Jennifer Leahy shares the insights and lessons she gained from working within these unique and challenging learning environments. In the private training sector, adult learners bring diverse life experiences into complex, rapidly changing environments. Many have experienced trauma through disrupted education, systemic barriers, or personal adversity which can significantly impact their ability to engage, learn, and succeed. This interactive workshop, The Impact of Trauma on Learning, explores how trauma-informed practice can improve learner outcomes by fostering safe, inclusive, and responsive environments. As providers navigate shifting learner needs, regulatory reforms, and workforce demands, both educators and leaders need to be equipped to respond holistically.
Tangata tākaro, tangata oranga ngākau; Weaving People and Play: Gamified Digital Assessment for Māori and Diverse Learners in Vocational Education
In an era of constant change, vocational providers must deliver assessment experiences that are both engaging and future‑focused. This session showcases Sub‑Project B of Fruition Horticulture’s Digitalisation Project—Gamified Assessment for Māori, by Māori—which reimagines assessment as an interactive digital journey grounded in indigenous pedagogy. The project replaces static worksheets with scenario‑based challenges, quests, and micro‑credentials set in a virtual Hawke’s Bay orchard. Learners earn points, unlock badges, and progress through storylines that integrate literacy, numeracy, and horticultural skills. The design framework is anchored in whanaungatanga (relationships), manaakitanga (care), and kaitiakitanga (guardianship) to ensure cultural relevance and real‑world transfer.
AI is the biggest equity move we can make in our generation
New Zealand's education landscape presents unique challenges: inconsistent teaching approaches, achievement gaps across ethnicities and socioeconomic groups, limited access to specialized teachers, and barriers for immigrant families. But today, I'm here with a message of hope – AI offers unprecedented opportunities to address these challenges head-on. AI is transforming how educators plan lessons, generating high-quality content tailored to diverse learner needs. It enables differentiation at scale, creating personalised learning experiences and assessments that meet students where they are. Through data analysis, AI helps identify patterns in student achievement, allowing for targeted interventions before students fall behind. For immigrant families, AI-powered translation breaks down communication barriers, ensuring all parents can meaningfully participate in their children's education. These technologies democratise access to world-class education resources, regardless of location or school resources. A student in remote Northland can access the same quality of educational support as one in central Auckland. The promise is real, but realizing it requires action from everyone in this room. As ITENZ leaders and educators, you stand at a critical junction. The tools evolving today will shape tomorrow's educational landscape. I urge you to dive into AI exploration – experiment, learn, and grow alongside your students. By embracing AI with intentionality and purpose, we can create an education system where every student thrives, regardless of background. Today, you'll experience practical, hands-on demonstrations of tools and applications that are working right now in classrooms across the country. You'll return to your institutions with your kete full of things to try immediately. The technology alone isn't the answer – it's how we as educators harness it with wisdom and care that will make the difference. Together, let's build a more equitable educational future for all New Zealanders.
From Static to Living: Addressing Non-Compliance Risks in Quality Management Systems
In today’s complex and rapidly changing vocational education environment, compliance is more than a regulatory requirement—it is a cornerstone of organisational resilience and learner success. However, many organisations rely on static Quality Management Systems (QMS) that focus on documentation rather than dynamic processes. This static approach often creates blind spots for non-compliance, increases operational risks, and limits the ability to adapt to sector changes. This presentation will explore how transitioning from static to living QMS frameworks can mitigate non-compliance risks, improve organisational resilience, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
System Change Leadership: A ConCOVE Tūhura Legacy Framework
As ConCOVE Tūhura nears the end of its funding in 2025, this paper offers a legacy contribution: a system change leadership framework for the vocational education and training (VET) ecosystem within construction and infrastructure. ConCOVE was established in 2020 as one of Aotearoa’s first Centres of Vocational Excellence, with a mandate to connect, innovate, and co-create solutions to persistent and emerging workforce challenges. Drawing on over 30 research and innovation projects—ranging from apprenticeship design to neurodiversity, equity, and sustainability—this framework distils systems change insights into five interrelated leadership domains: systems literacy, equity and participation, adaptive culture, intergenerational thinking, and distributed innovation. These domains are grounded in established systems literature, including Meadows’ Leverage Points, FSG’s Water of Systems Change, and Heifetz’s Adaptive Leadership.
Immigration NZ update covering student visa processing; policy and system changes
Immigration NZ Update covering student visa processing; policy and system changes; issues, and possibly some key principles for providers to consider around risk.
Lunch
Why International Education is good for New Zealand
Snack Time
Sponsorship Opportunities
The 2025 Conference in Queenstown is a prime opportunity to cut through the noise and engage directly with our members and conference attendees, tapping into a network of 25,000 equivalent full-time students. Discussions opportunities with Warren Bassett warren@twzl.nz
Silver Sponsor
$6000 + GST
- One exhibition stand. (see inclusions in column)
- 75 sec turbo pitch opportunity (Five presentation slides)
- Branding on conference slides.
- Logo and link to company website on the conference website.
- Logo on conference lanyard inserts.
- Logo and link to company website on printed conference programme and online schedule.
- Rotating branding on the main screen at refreshment time.
- At least 5 times verbal acknowledgements
Awards Sponsor: SOLD OUT
$900 + GST
Includes:
- Logo on the award certificate
- Introduce/and present the award
- Recognition on ITENZ awards website.
- Presentation photography able to be used by the sponsor.
Partner with ITENZ to associate your business/brand with high achievers in the sector. We present awards in the following categories.
- Provider of the Year Award
- Outstanding Performance Award
- Tutor of the year Award
Awards are presented at the conclusion of Day One. All attendees are encouraged to attend and support the awards participants.
Coffee Cart Sponsor SOLD OUT
$2600 + GST
Become the “Hub” of the conference, further promoted as the meeting point for post presentation discussions.
- Includes 400 barista coffees.
Additional opportunities would be:
- Branding costs of coffee cart.
- Branded coffee cups.
- Additional furniture (must be approved by Conference team).



ITENZ CONFERENCE 2025
Sponsors
Platinum Sponsor
Jill Tanner-Lloyd, National Communications and Marketing Manager
e: jill.tanner-lloyd@ako.ac.nz
Visit Ako Aotearoa and find out more about what we do.
Ako Aotearoa – the National Centre for Tertiary Teaching Excellence – promotes excellence in teaching that supports enhanced learner outcomes across the tertiary education sector. We do this by working closely with the teaching organisations and structures of the sector to achieve excellent and equitable learner success. We strive to honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi in all our work and model this in our research, advocacy, professional development, relationship building and sector collaboration. Innovation is central to and sector-wide influence.
Being a respected thought leader for innovation drives us forward, as does advocating for diverse learners as partners and leaders in their education journey.
Gold Sponsor
Visit My eQuals to find out more about how they can support you.
My eQuals is the official tertiary credentials digital platform for the higher education sector, students, and verifiers. It is a pan-pacific solution providing easy, secure access to certified, official qualification records for Australian and New Zealand universities and their learners.
Silver Sponsor
Visit PeoplePartners to find out more about how they can support you.
PeoplePartners is your trusted partner in Workforce Re-Engineering, helping you scale an efficient and profitable organization by combining global talent with cutting-edge AI and digitized processes. They are your Full Org Chart workforce partner, NOT just VAs—ensuring that every role is strategic and values-aligned.
PeoplePartners sets itself apart with a commitment to No Bench recruitment—every talent is selected to match your specific needs, avoiding random placements and ensuring a purposeful workforce strategy. The company also prioritises Non-Confidential Salary transparency, offering full visibility into what your global team earns, while maintaining ethical standards and trust.
By leveraging these uniques, PeoplePartners delivers a workforce solution that not only drives efficiency but also maximises profitability. So, whether you’re interested in value maximisation, boosting profitability, or preparing for an exit, PeoplePartners is your trusted partner for success.
Coffee Cart Sponsor
Visit Ruckus CommScope to find out more about how they can support you.
ITENZ CONFERENCE 2025
Exhibitors
Website: Home – Host Families New Zealand
“Host Families NZ is a proudly Kiwi-owned company, established in 2010, that offers homestay placements with welcoming families for both young and mature students, as well as interns. We ensure that our students, whether domestic or international, live in a warm, comfortable, and safe family environment, making their stay enjoyable and worthwhile. We take pride in partnering with organisations that want to extend their warm welcome to students through our caring families. With a large network of homestays across the country, we are well-equipped to meet urgent needs and accommodate students with diverse requirements.
Our Mission Is Simple: To Connect International Students With Safe And Friendly Kiwi Families.”
“Host Families NZ is a proudly Kiwi-owned company, established in 2010, that offers homestay placements with welcoming families for both young and mature students, as well as interns. We ensure that our students, whether domestic or international, live in a warm, comfortable, and safe family environment, making their stay enjoyable and worthwhile. We take pride in partnering with organisations that want to extend their warm welcome to students through our caring families. With a large network of homestays across the country, we are well-equipped to meet urgent needs and accommodate students with diverse requirements.
Our Mission Is Simple: To Connect International Students With Safe And Friendly Kiwi Families.”
Contact Name: Chris Moore
E-mail: chris.moore@publictrust.co.nz
For more information.
Website: ptnz.nz/fee-protect
Public Trust has a long tradition of looking after the interests of New Zealanders – it’s what we’ve been doing since we were established in 1873. We are one of New Zealand’s largest trustee organisations; and a Crown Entity – our independence is guaranteed under the Public Trust Act 2001.
Public Trust is best known as New Zealand’s largest provider of wills and estate administration services. Some may be surprised at our range of products and services including legal, financial, investment, Trusts, estate administration and estate protection. In fact, wherever you are at in your life, we have the experience and expertise to help you protect and manage your family interests and assets.
Our Fee Protect product is New Zealand’s most widely used student fee protection service. Designed in consultation with education providers, Ministry of Education and New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA), we offer Standard, Static, and Bank Bond trust accounts. Our high quality service is personal, with dedicated client service managers and help-desk staff who are fully trained on Fee Protect and NZQA policy. We offer the only online standard trust solution that meets NZQA standards, which is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
For more information.
Website: Office Products, Stationery and Supplies Online | OfficeMax NZ
OfficeMax, we supply workplaces across New Zealand with technology, furniture, safety, PPE, cafe, education, packaging, cleaning, and hygiene products. We want to enable workplaces to create safe, flexible working and learning environments.
We’re dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of organisations and schools across the country with a diverse range of products and solutions. After 150 years our commitment to New Zealand is as strong as ever.
Wherever you are we have local Account Managers to look after you. We also have Category Experts to help you find the best solutions. Let’s get it done together!
In Education space:
Providing schools with the resources they need.
We have nearly 5 decades of experience providing New Zealand schools with the resources they need to educate our children.
In 2010, School Supplies joined OfficeMax to combine high levels of service and education know-how with OfficeMax’s national resources and global buying capabilities, bringing unmatched offerings to every level of education, from Early Childhood to Tertiary. Our extensive Back to School range and our dedicated team of Education Account Managers and Product Specialists can help you find everything you need for your school.
For more information.
Website: LANGUAGECERT
LANGUAGECERT is a leading provider of language proficiency examinations, offering a range of English tests designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals, educational institutions, employers and governments worldwide.
For more information.
Website: Pipi Learning: Bespoke Online Training & Education | NZ eLearning
Pipi Learning is an awesome New Zealand eLearning company that creates bespoke interactive online learning modules for vocational education and training providers, businesses and charities. We create engaging and culturally responsive content that meets the needs of diverse learners, ensuring accessibility for neurodiverse, low-literacy, and multilingual participants. Our services have recently expanded to include curated content licencing and our brand new online store!
We work alongside our partners to create amazing content to empower learners by delivering high-quality, flexible, and innovative learning solutions.
For more information.
Website: Orbit Protect
At Orbit Protect, we specialise in providing comprehensive insurance cover for international students, visitors on working holiday visas, seasonal workers, and other non-New Zealand residents. Our mission is simple: to give you peace of mind while you’re far from home.
We make claims easy and fast, and for international students, our OrbitPay Card allows direct payment at approved medical centres and pharmacies, so you don’t have to pay upfront and wait for a refund.
For more information.
Website: Top stories » Education NZ
Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) is the government agency dedicated to helping New Zealand realise the social, cultural, and economic benefits of international education. Our role is to promote New Zealand as a high-quality education destination offering excellent education and students experiences and to encourage New Zealand students to study overseas.
With approximately 82 staff in 14 locations around the world, ENZ works closely with New Zealand’s diverse education sector which includes schools, English language providers, private training establishments, New Zealand Institute of Technology: Te Pūkenga, and universities. Internationally, we work with a range of education stakeholders, including government agencies and education providers to identify and encourage sustainable growth opportunities for New Zealand’s education sector.
For more information.
Website: Home | Tertiary Education Commission
The Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) is a Crown agency that leads the government’s relationship with the tertiary education sector, invests government funding in tertiary education organisations (TEOs) and provides career information from education to employment.
We invest over $3 billion into tertiary education and supporting the tertiary and careers system. We ensure New Zealanders are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need for lifelong success. We fund over 700 TEOs to provide thousands of courses to hundreds of thousands of learners. We also monitor the performance of TEOs and provide information and advice to the government about tertiary education.
For more information.
Website: Innovative Technology Solutions for NZ Businesses | Enform
At Enform, we are a team of passionate professionals dedicated to delivering tailored technology solutions that empower our clients to achieve their business goals. We don’t just see ourselves as vendors; we aim to build long-term partnerships grounded in mutual trust, transparency, and accountability. We understand that technology should be an asset, not a hindrance, to your business operations. That’s why our team is committed to guiding you towards technology solutions that enhance, rather than obstruct, your workflows. Our mission is to help you leverage technology to streamline your processes, boost efficiency, and reach your business objectives.
For more information.
Visit instant.org.nz to find out more or contact us on 0800 864 863.
Instant Education Solutions specialises in the development and provision of high-quality educational
resources and services, allowing you more time to focus on the needs of your ākonga/learners. With over 20
years’ experience in resource development, Instant is proud to provide resources to New Zealand Private
Training Establishments, other tertiary providers, and international clients. Instant is also the leading
provider of unit standard based educational resources for secondary schools and area schools in New
Zealand.
Instant Education Solutions is a subsidiary of Activate Education, a charitable education company that is
passionate about seeing lives changed through learning and enabling people to reach their potential.
For more information.
Visit SELMA SIS | Leading SMS in New Zealand to find out more
SELMA is New Zealand’s leading Student Management System, used by over 100 education providers and representing the majority of NZ’s private training sector. Now expanding into Australia, SELMA delivers compliance-driven efficiency through a seamlessly integrated platform. It streamlines regulatory compliance and reporting, automates workflows, and integrates with learning and finance systems. Backed by dedicated local support, SELMA empowers providers to focus on quality education.
SELMA is New Zealand’s leading Student Management System, used by over 100 education providers and representing the majority of NZ’s private training sector. Now expanding into Australia, SELMA delivers compliance-driven efficiency through a seamlessly integrated platform. It streamlines regulatory compliance and reporting, automates workflows, and integrates with learning and finance systems. Backed by dedicated local support, SELMA empowers providers to focus on quality education.
For more information.
Visit The LMS for Frontline Training & Compliance | Cloud Assess to find out more
Cloud Assess is the LMS built for practical, workforce-ready training. Trusted by PTEs, RTOs and workplaces across Australasia, Cloud Assess empowers organisations to create, deliver and manage training and assessment with ease. Purpose-built for vocational education, it streamlines admin, boosts efficiency and improves learner outcomes through powerful automation, real-time insights and mobile-first access. Stay audit-ready while focusing on what matters: engagement, quality and operational excellence—anytime, anywhere.
For more information.
Visit The New Zealand Qualifications Authority – NZQA to find out more
The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) ensures that New Zealand qualifications and credentials are credible and robust. NZQA achieves this through:
- Stewardship of the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework;
- Management of the qualifications system;
- Quality assurance of tertiary education organisations (except universities);
- Quality assurance of assessment in schools and kura;
- Delivery of robust senior secondary-school-level assessment; and
- Work to support international qualifications recognition.
NZQA also supports providers to effectively implement the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021 (the Code).
To learn more please visit: wisenet.co or call us on 0800 543 070.
Wisenet exists to inspire education providers to shape a better world. We are the leading student management system that supports training organisations in New Zealand on their journey to success. With over 1,000 customers worldwide, and as the market leader in New Zealand, we provide the technology and expertise that training organisations need to empower their learners from enrolment to graduation.
To learn more please visit: www.temahiako.org.nz or call us on 0508 475 455
Te Mahi Ako | Championing Work-Based Learning in te ahumahi ā-rēhia
Te Mahi Ako is a private training establishment (PTE) dedicated to the people and professions within te ahumahi ā-rēhia—Aotearoa’s vibrant active recreation, leisure, and entertainment sectors. We specialise in work-based learning, partnering with organisations across the motu to deliver practical, flexible, and industry-relevant qualifications that strengthen both individual careers and community outcomes.
Rooted in our purpose—to enliven our Te Tiriti identity through ngā mahi ā te rēhia—we exist to empower learners from all walks of life. Our kaupapa is focused on reducing disparities and creating a more equitable Aotearoa through accessible education that celebrates cultural identity, values, and aspirations.
Whether supporting emerging talent or helping experienced professionals step up in their careers, Te Mahi Ako offers a pathway to build skills, gain recognised qualifications, and make a lasting impact—all while remaining connected to the workplace.
We are proud to provide leadership, training, advice, and connection—honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi and championing the transformative power of ngā mahi ā te rēhia.
To learn more please visit: SUPAHUMAN AI
At SUPAHUMAN AI, we build intelligent automation for TEOs, complex and highly regulated industries—freeing smart people from tedious work.
Our team brings deep PhD-level expertise in AI and machine learning to design solutions purpose-built for the challenges of the PTE sector. From generating NZQA-aligned assessments to streamlining compliance workflows and delivering AI-powered student coaching assistants, we help education providers scale their impact without sacrificing quality or rigour. Through trusted partnerships with Google, AWS, Microsoft, and OpenAI – leveraging the best global technologies to deliver AI that’s ethical, secure, and fit for New Zealand’s regulatory and cultural context.
2024 Conference presentation slide PDF's are now available
You now have the chance to revisit several of the presentations at the 2024 conference. Check out the link below to have access to these files.
Millennium Hotel Queenstown is ideally positioned just
a short stroll from the centre of town. Just 6kms from the
airport, the hotel has easy access to local activities and is
directly across the road from our ‘sister’ property, Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown, Lakefront.
32 Frankton Road
Queenstown
Online Group code for ITENZ Conference attendees.
The Millennium Hotel Queenstown is offering the conference rate 3 days pre/post conference if you wish to extend your stay while in Queenstown for the Conference.
- Go to: https://www.millenniumhotels.com
- Click BOOK NOW Tab on the right side of the page.
- Type in destination: Millennium Hotel Queenstown
- Choose your dates, then add the Group Code ITENZ2025 under ADVANCED SEARCH, click BOOK NOW
- Choose your room type, click SELECT
- Click CHECKOUT
- Enter your details, confirm your booking!
For further assistance, please contact our reservations team and quote your group code
NZ Reservations
T 0800 808 228
E reservations@millenniumhotels.co.nz
Relax and experience a hotel that set against a stunning alpine backdrop. Millennium Hotel Queenstown offers attention to detail and personalised service creating an unforgettable experience for delegates.
Millennium Hotel Queenstown is endorsed with a Qualmark 4 Plus Star and Enviro Gold rating. This establishes the hotel as a premier environmentally aware accommodation provider in the region.
Guest Services
• The Observatory Restaurant
• The Club Bar
• 24-hour room service
• Wireless internet throughout the hotel
• Secured undercover car parking at NZ$20.00 per day
• Guest laundry and dry-cleaning services
• Beautiful courtyard garden
• Concierge service
• Fully equipped fitness centre with spa and saunas
• Photocopy and print services
• Rooms for guests with disabilities
ITENZ Awards
The Independent Tertiary Education New Zealand Awards are held annually as part of the ITENZ Conference.Award winners will be published and a media statement released shortly after the event.
The aims of the annual Independent Tertiary Education New Zealand (ITENZ) Excellence Awards are
to recognise, encourage and celebrate excellence in tertiary education in independent tertiary
organisations. They provide opportunities for organisations to showcase what they do best, what
stands out in a crowd, to share good practice and for students and staff members to further their
careers.
Panelists announce award winners, reading from citations that are prepared by the panel prior to
the presentations.
Winners receive a framed award certificate and a cash prize.
All Awards Submissions are NOW due by 11:00pm, Friday 18th July 2025 to be considered.
Click the above link button for further General Awards details
Click the above link button for Awards criteria details
Submissions are NOW due by 11:00pm, Friday 18th July 2025.
As Part of the Awards Application process you will need to complete the below forms/Documents. follow the links below
Supreme Award - presented by Ako Aotearoa
The Supreme Award was inaugurated in 2017. This prestigious and significant award is sponsored by
Ako Aotearoa.
One of the recipients of the above award will be chosen by the judging panel to receive the Supreme
Award. This award will be conferred for outstanding achievement and excellence.
Submissions are NOW due by 11:00pm, Friday 18th July 2025.
Tutor of the Year Award - presented by Pipi Learning
This award honours individual tutors who have demonstrated outstanding teaching practices that engage learners, nurture confidence, and promote effective learning that enhances outcomes, and recognises their efforts.
Submissions are NOW due by 11:00pm, Friday 18th July 2025.
Outstanding Performance Award - presented by Wisenet
This award honours individual staff members who have demonstrated exceptional contribution to develop and improve the quality and culture in their organisation, its students, staff and wider communities, and to recognise their efforts. This award is open to staff members except tutors, there being a specific award of Tutor of the Year Award.
Submissions are NOW due by 11:00pm, Friday 18th July 2025.
Provider of the Year Award - presented by Public Trust
This award honours organisations that have demonstrated excellence in organisational capability and significant strategic leadership that impact positively on the business, its learners, staff, wider community and the industry, and recognises its efforts.
Submissions are NOW due by 11:00pm, Friday 18th July 2025.
ITENZ Awards
ITENZ Award Winners 2024
Misson Ready HQ
The judging panel has conferred the Supreme Award in 2024 on the recipient of the Provider of the Year Award, Misson Ready HQ.
This prestigious award, honours the category award winner that has demonstrated exceptional contribution to the outcomes of learners, and recognises their efforts.
Congratulations to Mission Ready HQ on being a well-deserving recipient of the Ako Aotearoa Supreme Award, for 2024.
Pictured: Alan Kan from Mission Ready with (L-R), Ruth Peterson (Ako Aotearoa), judges Kamuka Pati and Julia Bruce-Mayne, and ITENZ CE, Wayne Dyer

Munesu Mapanda – Industry Training Solutions
The Outstanding Performance Award honours individual staff members who have demonstrated exceptional contribution to develop and improve the quality and culture in their organisation, its students, staff and wider communities, and to recognise their efforts.
This year’s winner of the Wisenet-sponsored award was also an ITS staff member, Munesu Mapanda who was recognised by judges for, amongst other things, his meticulous data management, inspiration, professionalism, accountability, commitment to values, knowledge sharing, support for staff, passion for the organisation, and dedication to advancing learner outcomes.
Pictured: Munesu Mapanda, winner of the Outstanding Performance Award with (L-R), Ruth Peterson (Ako Aotearoa), judges Kamuka Pati and Julia Bruce-Mayne, and ITENZ CE, Wayne Dyer

Lisanne Baukema, Industry Training Solutions
Lisanne Baukema from Industry Training Solutions (ITS) impressed the judges with the passion she has to see her akonga (learners) succeed and they awarded her Tutor of the Year.
The Tutor of the Year award, sponsored by OfficeMax, honours individual tutors who have demonstrated outstanding teaching practices that engage learners, nurture confidence, and promote effective learning that enhances outcomes, and recognises their efforts.
Judges commented on Lisanne’s drivers of kindness, passions, belief and a desire to see ākonga achieve and succeed, not only in her courses but in life. they said she goes above and beyond to support learners through to completion and that inclusion and relationship building are constants for Lisanne.
Pictured: Lisanne Baukema (R) from ITS, winner of Tutor of the Year, with judge Julia Bruce-Mayne

Misson Ready HQ
The Provider of the Year Award honours organisations that have demonstrated excellence in organisational capability and significant strategic leadership that impact positively on the business, its learners, staff, wider community and the industry, and recognises its efforts.
Judges commented that by offering real-world learning experiences, Mission Ready ensures that students are well-prepared for the challenges of a constantly evolving industry. By staying at the forefront of technology through continued investment, including cutting-edge areas such as generative AI, Mission Ready ensures that students are equipped with the latest skills and knowledge.
ITENZ Awards
ITENZ Award Winners 2023
ITENZ Supreme Award Winner
Susan Townshend, Le Cordon Bleu
The judging panel has conferred the Supreme Award in 2023 on the recipient of the Outstanding Performance Award, Susan Townshend.
This prestigious award, honours the category award winner that has demonstrated exceptional contribution to the outcomes of learners, and recognises their efforts.
Congratulations Susan on being a well-deserving recipient of the Ako Aotearoa Supreme Award, for 2023.
ITENZ Provider of the Year Winner
ITENZ Awards
ITENZ Award Winners 2022
ITENZ Supreme Award Winner
Raymond Trancel, Electrical Training Company (Etco)
The judging panel has conferred the Supreme Award in 2022 on the recipient of the Tutor of the Year Award, Raymond Trancel.
This award is made in recognition that a category winner has made an outstanding contribution to advancing the best possible outcomes for learners. Raymond is a tutor par excellence, his passion for the sector and for teaching is unparalleled. In addition, he is committed to his own lifelong learning.
Unusually, perhaps, Raymond left a management role to return to full-time teaching. Results have included the development of Zoom programmes for apprentices in remote locations and the seamless continuity of learning throughout periods of lockdown. He is committed to increasing the number of qualified female electrical inspectors in New Zealand and is passionate about Etco’s foundation programme to enable those who don’t have the necessary NCEA credits to enter an apprenticeship.
His contribution to the wider environment has resulted in other registered electricians considering teaching as a career. Raymond uses innovative assessment approaches and makes changes based on feedback and reflection. Congratulations Raymond on being a well-deserving recipient of the Ako Aotearoa Supreme Award, for 2022.
ITENZ Tutor of the Year Award
Raymond Trancel, Electrical Training Company (Etco)
‘You can train someone to teach but there is one thing you cannot train into someone and that is passion, and Raymond has bucketloads of passion for learning and imparting teaching.’ This is from Etco’s General Manager Learning.
Many student comments demonstrate Raymond’s wide range of teaching strategies and techniques including, ‘Raymond has great techniques for getting people to understand. Once he was explaining power factor unity to me – and used the example of a pint of beer and the froth on top to help me understand’.
Raymond’s teaching and learning practices are respectful of gender, inclusive of learning environments, build positive and authentic relationships, and use formative assessment to monitor what his students can do and what they need to build on. “Raymond is the reason I was able to finish my apprenticeship. I was struggling but Raymond was always there, willing to give 110 percent to help me and others – and he got us across the line”.
At the Electrical Training Company (Etco) Raymond hasn’t just made changes to his teaching approach as a result of reflection on feedback, he’s led changes to the feedback process itself, developing more accessible online surveys so that all can learn from them. That has resulted in much richer feedback from all sorts of students.
Highly Commended: Jude Robinson, Pacific Coast Technical Institute
ITENZ Awards
ITENZ Awards 2021
ITENZ Supreme Award Winner
Steve Hallett, Electrical Training Company (Etco)
The judging panel has conferred the Supreme Award in 2021 on the recipient of the 2021 Leadership Award, Steve Hallett.
This award is made in recognition that the category winner has made an outstanding contribution to advancing the best possible outcomes for learners.
ITENZ Tutor of the Year Award
Tony Burnham, Edvance
‘Your ways of teaching are hard to come by and I am learning more now than I ever managed to learn at school’. This is from a student whose programme shifted suddenly online due to COVID-19.
Many student comments demonstrate Tony’s wide range of teaching strategies and techniques including, “I feel very lucky having Tony, he is very interactive, approachable, knowledgeable and he cares about our learning. He made sure everyone was included and didn’t feel out of place.’ And “I learnt a lot of things and thought of things I would never have’.
Tony’s teaching and learning practices are respectful of cultures, inclusive of learning environments, build positive and authentic relationships, apply a needs-based approach to delivery, and use formative assessment to monitor what his students can do and what they need to build on.
At Edvance, the Pacific achievement is higher than for non-Pacific. Tony achieves excellent outcomes for Reading, Writing and Numeracy with significant shifts in abilities. Importantly, he is reflective of his teaching and learning approaches and there is strong evidence that demonstrates his response to feedback and improvements made.
Highly Commended – Arden Carter, Pacific Coast Technical Institute
ITENZ Provider of the Year Award Winner
Edvance
Edvance demonstrates excellent learner achievement, a focus on staff and their well-being, and a desire to impact the wider community.
A Māori or Pacific learner studying at Edvance is likely to achieve equally or better than non-Māori or non-Pacific people. Their Te Puni Kokiri cadetship programme in partnership with Auckland District Health Board aims to lift the number of Māori staff employed by ADHB. Another partnership, with Te Whangi trust, targets at-risk Māori youth to achieve life skills including communicating confidently, solving problems more effectively, planning for the future and their rights and responsibilities as employees.
Edvance tutors win Exceptional Adult Educator awards. They carry out voluntary “Days of Good”, like packing food parcels for needy Aucklanders. They sponsor the rescue helicopter and Coastguard.
Glowing client feedback reports staff getting everything they needed out of training by Edvance.
Today’s award is not a random result. Edvance has consistently reached high standards over 10 years with policies on strategic leadership and reflective practice to improve teaching and learning. This is a provider that is making a difference and contributing to improved graduate outcomes.
ITENZ Student of the Year Award
Alize Hawkins, Pacific Coast Technical Institute
Alize is from Te Whakatohea and Te Whanau Apanui and he is the youngest ever ITENZ Awards winner.
He started at the Youth Arm of the Pacific Coast Technical Institute at the age of 14 coming from full immersion Māori schools with Māori as his first language. It was soon clear to his tutors that he was talented and capable. He overcame insurmountable obstacles against all odds and with sheer dedication, commitment, and grit he excelled in everything he attempted.
Alize showed an extraordinary willingness to learn and succeed and has often been singled out by teachers as the student who is most excited, involved, and willing to learn in his practical application classes. He was the recipient of the student of the year awards in 2019, 2020 at PCTI and is on track to receive it again this year.
As his academic confidence grew Alize took on roles of responsibility supporting other students and staff to learn Te Reo and leading students and staff as head of the group when attending Marae.
Alize’s story is a great story of student success.
ITENZ Outstanding Performance Award
Tania Fisken and Tanya Nunn, Electrical Training Company (Etco)
The two Ts, as they are known, share the role of Central North Island Region Administrator based in Rotorua.
They are the perfect combination of two people job-sharing seamlessly, ‘never skipping a beat’ to ensure the smooth operation of the organisation. “Any business would run like clockwork if you could ‘cut and paste Tania and Tanya into it” was one of the many supporting comments.
They are exceptionally efficient and dedicated, remarkably good at communication, are proactive, and constantly go above and beyond what is expected to support students and tutors – often working outside working hours, these being the best times to make contact with their learners and apprentices.
Their job is wide reaching and includes responsibility for all the administration for the region, keeping track of attendance and progress of 500 students, in charge of enrolment for all industry courses for registered electricians, and for reporting to the Electrical Workers Registration Board.
At the heart of their work is the way they keep a close eye on all students, encouraging those that are falling behind and finding best possible ways to help them. Supporting evidence has come from within and outside Etco, including the Skills Organisation.
Highly Commended – Christine Ozich, Kalandra Education Group.
ITENZ Leadership Award Winner
Steve Hallett, Electrical Training Company (Etco)
Quiet dignity, unflappable, passionate, knowledgeable, courageous, visionary, insightful, some words used to describe Etco’s board chair, Steve Hallett.
How does Steve promote excellence and innovation? First he knows you need the right people. In his words, “We look at the skills set matrix and, as people retire, we actively seek directors with skills that will provide the strengths we need to develop a strong board with a sound understanding of good governance.”
Steve has steered the Etco board through some bold decisions about ground-breaking changes. A Board member said “Steve was by far the leader in that process. He was looking at what Etco looks like in 10-20 years. He had the ability to foresee a different future.”
He also knows that innovation requires investment. Under his leadership Etco has invested in learning technologies and student management systems, which have contributed to and enabled growth.
One of Steve’s great strengths is his ability to build strong mutual relationships. Under Steve’s leadership Etco has partnered with polytechnics, schools, government bodies and industry groups to advance the work of training electricians and other apprentices.
He is rightly judged Leader of the Year.