The Higher Education Research and Development Society of Australasia Aotearoa New Zealand branch has announced that the 2026 Tertiary Education Research New Zealand conference will take place from 25 to 27 November at the Business School of Waipapa Taumata Rau, the University of Auckland.
This annual gathering brings together researchers, practitioners, and leaders from across New Zealand's tertiary education sector to share findings and discuss developments in teaching, learning, and institutional practice.
Understanding TERNZ and Its Role in New Zealand Tertiary Education
Tertiary Education Research New Zealand, known as TERNZ, serves as a key platform for advancing scholarship in higher education within the country. The conference format emphasises supportive exchanges between those conducting research and those applying insights in classrooms and administrative settings across universities and other tertiary providers.
Since its beginnings in the early 2000s, TERNZ has helped build a connected community focused on improving outcomes for students and institutions alike. The event aligns with the broader goals of the HERDSA NZ branch, which works to promote, assist, and advance tertiary education nationwide, with particular attention to fostering networks among educators and researchers.
University of Auckland Business School Steps Up as 2026 Host
The University of Auckland Business School will welcome participants to its Auckland facilities for the three-day programme. As one of New Zealand's leading research-intensive universities, the institution brings substantial expertise in business, economics, and related fields that intersect with tertiary education research.
Hosting at this venue provides attendees with access to modern facilities in the heart of Auckland, New Zealand's largest city and a major hub for international education. The choice reflects ongoing efforts by New Zealand universities to strengthen local research communities while engaging with global trends in higher education.
Conference Dates and Practical Details for Attendees
Marking the calendar for 25 to 27 November 2026 allows academics, administrators, and emerging researchers to plan participation well in advance. The timing aligns with the end of the academic year for many New Zealand institutions, facilitating attendance without major disruption to teaching schedules.
Early registration and programme details will be shared through HERDSA NZ channels. Those interested can sign up for updates via the organisation's contact resources to stay informed about calls for papers, keynote speakers, and workshop opportunities.
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How TERNZ Supports Academics and PhD Researchers in New Zealand
For faculty members and doctoral candidates pursuing careers in higher education, TERNZ offers a dedicated space to present work, receive feedback, and form collaborations. The supportive atmosphere encourages open dialogue on topics ranging from curriculum design to student engagement and institutional policy.
Participants often find value in connecting with peers from institutions such as the University of Auckland, Auckland University of Technology, Victoria University of Wellington, and others across the country. These interactions help address shared challenges in New Zealand's tertiary sector, including adapting to evolving student needs and regulatory expectations from bodies like the Tertiary Education Commission.
Broader Context of Tertiary Education Research in Aotearoa New Zealand
New Zealand's higher education landscape continues to evolve in response to demographic shifts, international student mobility, and technological change. Conferences like TERNZ play a vital role in generating evidence-based insights that inform practice at universities and polytechnics alike.
By focusing on both research outputs and practical applications, the event contributes to stronger teaching quality and more effective institutional strategies. This aligns with national priorities around building a skilled workforce and enhancing the global reputation of New Zealand qualifications.
Networking and Collaboration Opportunities at TERNZ 2026
Beyond formal presentations, the conference structure promotes informal exchanges that often lead to joint projects and ongoing professional relationships. Attendees can expect sessions designed to bridge gaps between different types of tertiary providers and between established researchers and those earlier in their careers.
Such connections prove especially valuable for PhD-track individuals seeking to understand the realities of academic life in New Zealand institutions. Discussions frequently touch on career pathways, funding landscapes, and strategies for impactful scholarship.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Higher Education Research Conferences in New Zealand
As the sector prepares for TERNZ 2026, the event underscores the importance of sustained investment in research that directly benefits teaching and learning. Continued participation from across the country helps ensure that New Zealand remains responsive to both local contexts and international developments.
Organisers anticipate strong engagement, building on the legacy of previous gatherings that have strengthened the tertiary education research community. Updates on themes, invited speakers, and submission processes will be released in the coming months through established HERDSA networks.
Practical Steps for Those Planning to Attend or Present
Academics and administrators interested in contributing should monitor the HERDSA NZ website for announcements regarding abstracts and registration. Preparing work that connects research findings with real-world applications in New Zealand tertiary settings tends to resonate well with the TERNZ audience.
Early-career researchers may also explore opportunities for mentorship or feedback sessions, which have been hallmarks of the conference's supportive ethos. Institutions across the sector are encouraged to support staff attendance as part of professional development initiatives.
