Kia ora
In this issue
- Insights from our Executive Director
- Upcoming Events
- Insights from our Executive Director
We’re officially back into the rhythm of 2026, and I hope everyone enjoyed a well‑earned break. It’s going to be a big year for us, and we’re already moving at pace. My primary focus over the next month is the Life Sciences Summit, and the team is working hard to ensure we deliver another outstanding and impactful event.
The Gene Tech Bill remains a key area of concern, particularly given the tight timelines now in play. BioTechNZ will be collaborating closely with other industry bodies to ensure robust, evidence‑based scientific information is communicated clearly to politicians, farmers, and the wider public. This space will move quickly, so stay tuned.
New Zealand will also have a presence at BIO USA this year. Anyone wishing to attend must pre‑register, details are included below.
You’ll see more networking events across the regions throughout the year, so keep an eye out for upcoming dates.
Our Ambassador Programme has been a tremendous success, and we’re excited to expand it nationwide. If you know passionate, energetic individuals who would like to get involved with BioTechNZ’s work, please encourage them to contact zahra.champion@biotechnz.org.nz to express their interest. While we’ve selected biology‑focused students to date, we’re keen to welcome people from a broad range of skill sets. The key requirement is enthusiasm for contributing to biotech‑driven initiatives.
Upcoming Events – Don’t Miss Out!
National momentum: Building awareness and community
WELLINGTON | Life Sciences Summit – Early Bird ends tomorrow (11 February)
9-11 March 2026, Tākina, Wellington
With only four weeks to go until the Life Sciences Summit 2026, now’s the time to lock it in. Early Bird pricing closes tomorrow, Wednesday 11 February. Join the only summit in Aotearoa bringing together the full life sciences ecosystem to advance a bio-future through biology, advanced tech and innovation—with government, research, investors and industry all in the room. Get your tickets now
International events: Mark your calendars
BIO USA 2026
22-25 June, San Diego, CA
BIO is providing BioTechNZ members the opportunity to request a personalised discount code for $200 off registration for the 2026 BIO International Convention.
Deadline to request a discount code: 27 February 2026
Request your code via this form here.
Registration rates can be found here.
Early bird deadline: 26 March 2026 (register early to secure the best rate)
Codes distributed by: 13 March 2026 (sent directly to individual requesters)
Note: Requesting a discount code is no obligation—there is no commitment to register. We encourage you to request a code even if you’re unsure whether you’ll attend, so you have it available if you decide to register.
ANZMBS Marine Biotech Conference (Aug 2026) – Call for Abstracts
BioTechNZ members are invited by the Australia New Zealand Marine Biotechnology Society (ANZMBS) to submit abstracts for its August 2026 marine biotechnology conference, hosted by The University of Waikato in Tauranga. The programme will spotlight success stories from concept to commercialisation, with insights from founders, researchers, and industry leaders, plus hands-on workshops in innovation and commercialisation and networking to spark new collaborations. Topics include AI for the blue economy, marine bioproducts, sustainable aquaculture, ocean-based pharma, biomaterials, and environmental technologies. Early bird tickets are now open. Learn more.
Remember to send us your good news so we can share with your fellow members.
Ngā mihi
Zahra Champion
Executive Director, BioTechNZ
Read full news here: 2026 is underway: Summit, BIO USA + ambassadors