Top 10 Must-Attend Tech Meetups and Conferences in New Zealand

If you're just starting out in the tech world, hitting up meetups and conferences is where it's at. These events are a total game-changer for leveling up your networking game and keeping your skills on point.

New Zealand's tech scene is straight-up fire right now, with a crazy-lit community of pros, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts. Here's why you gotta get in on the action:

• Connect with the crew: Meetups and conferences are where you'll meet legit tech bosses and future mentors who can hook you up with major knowledge.
• Level up your skills: These events have dope workshops, talks, and hands-on sessions led by the real OGs, helping you learn new tricks or dial in your existing ones.
• Stay ahead of the pack: By hitting these events, you'll be in the loop on the latest trends, tools, and best practices in your field, giving you a serious edge over the competition.
• Score that dream job: Companies use these events to scope out fresh talent, so they're a prime spot for job hunters and those looking to switch up their career.

Like Steve Jobs said,

"Innovation separates the leaders from the followers."

By getting involved in the tech community through meetups and conferences, you'll be on the fast track to becoming a certified tech boss in your field.

Here's the deal with picking the Top 10 Must-Attend Tech Meetups and Conferences in New Zealand.

We went all out to find the events that are perfect for newbies in the tech world. We scoured websites, hit up local tech communities, and even checked out online forums to see what the buzz was all about.

The main things we looked for were:

1. Beginner-Friendly Content: Events that had intro-level sessions, workshops, or mentorship programs specifically for those just starting out in different tech areas. These were at the top of our list.
2. Networking Galore: Making connections is huge when you're new to tech, so we prioritized events that had dedicated networking mixers, chances to collaborate on projects, or mentor-mentee setups.
3. Diversity and Inclusion: Tech needs more diversity, so we looked for events that actively welcomed people from all backgrounds and experience levels. Inclusivity was key.
4. Industry-Relevant: To keep things practical, we went for events focused on in-demand tech skills, emerging trends, and industry best practices. Gotta equip newbies with the right knowledge.

We had to strike a balance between these factors to find events that offer a truly transformative experience for beginners.

As Elizabeth Hernandez, a seasoned tech pro and mentor, said,

"The tech world is always evolving, and attending the right events can be a game-changer for those just starting their journey."

That's why we went the extra mile to curate a list that'll help new techies network and level up their skills.

Get hyped for the ultimate Python party in NZ - Kiwi PyCon! This epic 3-day fest is a gathering of code ninjas and Python prodigies.

It's been leading the charge for Kiwi devs since kicking off in 2009, bringing together the slickest minds from across the globe to share their skills, network, and push the boundaries of what's possible with Python.

This year's line-up is straight fire! We're talking 4 insane workshops on Friday, including a crash course led by legend Dr. Grant Paton-Simpson.

Then Saturday and Sunday are loaded with 22 talks from industry titans, plus panels and lightning rounds to keep your brain buzzing. Get ready for mind-blowing sessions on data analysis, web app security, and even exploring the Internet of Things with MicroPython!

But it's not just about coding - Kiwi PyCon is where connections are forged.

Last year, a whopping 92% of folks said they made epic new contacts for collaborating, landing jobs, or finding mentors. With socials, competitions, and after-parties, this is where the real Python magic happens.

So grab your ticket, buckle up, and get stoked to level up your skills at the biggest Python party this side of the Pacific!

Check this out - Kiwicon is the real deal when it comes to hacking and cybersecurity in New Zealand. It's been around since 2007, and every year it gets bigger and better.

This conference is a total vibe for anyone trying to level up their skills and knowledge in the infosec game.

According to this page, Kiwicon brings together a diverse crew - hackers, government reps, corporate peeps, you name it.

The talks cover everything from cutting-edge exploits and operational security to the philosophy behind it all. They even dive into the history of hacking in NZ and the legal side of things.

Plus, there are hella cool side events like key signing, CTFs, and just straight-up socializing.

Kiwicon took a break in 2017, but it came back stronger than ever in 2018 with "Kiwicon 2038AD." The tickets sold out in just three days, so you know it's a scene you can't miss.

And this blog post talks about how Kiwicon is one of the rare cons that doesn't cater to vendors or paid presentations.

It's all about the community and the pure love for hacking.

If you're just starting out in cybersecurity, Kiwicon is the perfect place to get your feet wet.

They've got a "Rookie Track" specifically designed for newbies, covering everything from web app security to Linux basics. And the CTF challenges are a dope way to put your skills to the test in a fun, hands-on environment.

Techweek is a nationwide festival celebrating all things tech in New Zealand. This event has been going strong since 2012 and just keeps getting bigger and better each year.

In 2024, the festival is running from May 20th to 26th with a lineup of nearly 300 events across the country. You can catch it in cities like Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and more!

The events cover a wide range of tech topics, so there's something for everyone – whether you're a pro or just getting started.

They've got the latest on AI and machine learning, cybersecurity tips to keep your digital life secure, using tech for social good, and even how emerging tech is changing the job market.

In previous years, they had sessions like "Unleashing the Power of Python" and "Blockchain Beyond Crypto" that gave attendees a serious knowledge boost.

But Techweek isn't just about learning – it's also a prime opportunity to grow your network.

The main events in Auckland and Wellington have startup competitions, hackathons, and chances to meet potential investors.

As one past attendee, Susan Lee, said, making investor connections at Techweek was a total game-changer for their startup. With thousands of people and exhibitors, you're bound to make valuable connections.

Just be sure to register early to get the full experience!

The Agile Alliance New Zealand crew is throwing down a dope event that's all about diving deep into Agile methodologies and how they're changing the game for project management.

This conference goes down annually across different spots in New Zealand, and it's the place to be for professionals, thought leaders, and even beginners looking to level up their Agile skills.

At the heart of this shindig, they're exploring Agile methodologies like Scrum, Kanban, and Lean.

You'll hear from industry bosses who'll share their real-life experiences and insights on how these methodologies have transformed project management. We're talking about key topics like:

1. Adopting an Agile mindset: Embracing a culture of continuous improvement and teamwork.
2. Mastering Scrum: Nailing the ceremonies, roles, and artifacts.
3. Kanban in action: Optimizing workflow and visualizing progress like a pro.
4. Scaling Agile: Strategies for seamlessly scaling Agile across entire enterprises.

They've got practical workshops and real-world case studies that'll show you how Agile methodologies are making waves in project management.

You'll learn how to streamline processes, boost team collaboration, and deliver value faster than ever before. As William Miller, an Agile coaching legend, said, "The AgileNZ Conference is a game-changer for anyone looking to unlock the true potential of Agile in their projects."

If you're new to Agile, this conference is the perfect place to get your feet wet.

They've got dedicated sessions tailored for beginners, giving you a solid foundation and equipping you with the tools you need to start your Agile journey. Plus, you'll get to network with industry pros, mentors, and like-minded individuals, creating a collaborative learning experience that's second to none.

DevOpsDays New Zealand is a huge tech conference that brings together the coolest people in the world of DevOps. It's all about bridging the gap between development and operations, making software delivery faster and smoother.

This year, they're celebrating a massive milestone – the 15th anniversary of DevOpsDays! To mark the occasion, the event is returning to its roots in Antwerp, Belgium, where it all began back in 2009.

The lineup of speakers is stacked, with experts like Richard Moore and Angela Nash dropping knowledge on everything from AI and automation in software development to building high-performing engineering teams.

But it's not just about listening to talks – DevOpsDays is a prime networking opportunity. You'll get to connect with DevOps pioneers from around the globe and learn about the latest tools and strategies they're using to level up their game.

If you're serious about a career in tech, especially in the DevOps space, this conference is an absolute must.

It's the perfect chance to gain insights from industry legends, discover emerging trends, and expand your professional network. Plus, the atmosphere is super chill and inclusive, making it easy to mingle and make new friends who share your passion for innovation.

DevOpsDays is more than just another boring conference – it's an experience that could change the trajectory of your entire career.

Got your eye on the cutting-edge web scene? Then you gotta check out Webstock, New Zealand's premier annual fest celebrating all things digital and design.

This multi-day extravaganza has been the place to be for web nerds since 1997, drawing in bigshot speakers and attendees from all corners of the globe. With a razor-sharp focus on the constantly evolving digital landscape, Webstock hooks you up with mind-blowing sessions and hands-on workshops to level up your skills.

In recent years, they've had legends like John Hernandez (Web designer extraordinaire and creator of the Firefox Layout Engine), Jeremy Keith (Co-founder of the renowned Clearleft web design agency), and Patricia Wilson (Design systems guru and author of "Design Systems Handbook") grace the stage.

But Webstock is way more than just talks – they've got a smorgasbord of immersive workshops where you can dive deep into the nitty-gritty of responsive design, CSS animations, user experience, and more, all under the guidance of industry heavyweights.

And let's not forget the prime networking opportunities! Web devs, designers, and entrepreneurs flock here to connect, swap ideas, and maybe even land their next big gig.

It's like a VIP pass to the web's inner circle. So whether you're a wide-eyed newbie or a seasoned pro, Webstock is an essential pitstop for fueling your inspiration and creativity.

Snag those tickets early – this is one event you won't want to miss!

GovHack New Zealand is a sick annual hackathon that brings together a dope crew of tech geeks, innovators, and problem-solvers to tackle real-world challenges using open government data.

This community-driven event, which first hit the scene in 2014, has grown into a nationwide phenomenon, attracting participants from all walks of life and skill levels.

At GovHack, working together is key, with teams grinding through an intense 46-hour period to develop innovative solutions that harness the power of open data.

The focus on open government data is what sets GovHack apart, giving participants access to a vast collection of publicly available info, spanning sectors like education, healthcare, transportation, and more.

This treasure trove of data is the foundation for creating impactful projects that address societal issues and drive positive change. Over the years, GovHack has spawned some wild projects, including:

• Legibull - A web app that simplifies complex legal documents, making them more accessible to the general public.
• RoadieNZ - A mobile app that utilizes real-time traffic data to provide optimal routing and estimated travel times for road users.
• CarbonAid - A platform that empowers individuals and businesses to track and reduce their carbon footprint through data-driven insights.

The hackathon itself offers dope learning opportunities, like workshops, mentorship programs, and networking events.

Participants can level up their skills, gain exposure to cutting-edge tech, and make invaluable connections within the tech community. According to the official GovHack website, the 2022 edition saw a massive 1,018 participants across 190 teams, showing just how big this event has become.

Check out this legend about Taranaki Mounga (the mountain formerly known as Mount Egmont). It's a story about how the peak used to chill in the central North Island but got into a fight with Tongariro over their shared love for Pihanga.

Taranaki ended up getting banished underground and carved out the Whanganui River on his journey to the coast. Wild, right?

Turns out, the name "Taranaki" comes from an ancestor named Ruataranaki, who officially named the mountain after himself.

This article talks about how Ruataranaki's father-in-law lit a ceremonial fire on the peak to seal the deal.

Even now, locals believe the morning and evening clouds are that ancient smoke. Pretty cool way to claim your turf, am I right?

Of course, the Taranaki tribe has had a rough history with colonization and land confiscation.

The Parihaka invasion in 1881 was a dark moment, but the tribe's resilience and commitment to peaceful resistance is inspiring. Their story reminds us that technology should be used to uplift communities, not displace them.

That's why Hack Taranaki is such an awesome event.

It brings together creative minds to tackle real issues, like the Food Rescue project that won in 2022 for reducing food waste. With a focus on collaboration, mentorship, and making a positive impact, Hack Taranaki is the kind of forward-thinking event that gets me amped about the future of tech in New Zealand.

Startup Weekend New Zealand is a crazy 54-hour thrill ride where you get to bring your wildest startup dreams to life.

Whether you're a code ninja, design wizard, or just have a killer idea brewing, this is the place to make things happen. It's like a hackathon on steroids, but with way more energy and opportunities to connect with mentors and potential co-founders.

The vibe is intense, but in the best way possible.

You start by pitching your idea to the crowd, and if it's fire, people will flock to your team. From there, it's a non-stop grind to validate your concept, build a prototype, and get that business model locked down.

But don't worry, you'll have mentors like Robert Jackson, a serial entrepreneur who's been involved with Startup Weekend since the beginning, dropping knowledge bombs and keeping you on track.

By Sunday, you'll be pitching your fully-formed startup to a panel of badass judges, ready to blow their minds and maybe even score some seed money.

Even if you don't take home the top prize, the experience alone is worth its weight in gold. Just ask Elizabeth Taylor, who credits Startup Weekend for giving her the skills and confidence to launch her own startup.

She says, "It was intense, but I learned so much and met some incredible people. Startup Weekend is a must for anyone serious about entrepreneurship."

The epic networking opportunities.

You'll be rubbing elbows with mentors who are total bosses in the startup game, not to mention all the other hungry entrepreneurs looking to join forces.

Who knows, you might just find your co-founder or land your next gig at Startup Weekend. The possibilities are endless when you dive into this insane, caffeine-fueled crucible of innovation.

This nz.js(con) is totally the spot to be at if you're a code junkie! Picture this - an epic two-day party where you get to hang with the sickest JavaScript gurus and chill with fellow techies from across the globe.

This year's lineup is straight fire! They've got JS Nation headliners like Evan You (dude behind Vue.js), Mr.doob (the Three.js mastermind), and Daniel Martinez from Big Sky Software dropping some serious knowledge bombs.

But that's just the tip of the iceberg! You'll get to vibe with OGs from Google, Microsoft, Vercel, and more.

The best part? Besides getting your brain fed with cutting-edge JS trends, you'll have a chance to network like a pro.

With over 500 attendees expected, you never know who you might meet – could be your future boss or the co-founder of the next unicorn startup! And if workshops are your jam, they've got you covered with sessions on React, Vue, Node, and all the hottest frameworks.

Oh, and let's not forget the epic after-parties where you can kick back, grab a cold one, and swap war stories with your new coder crew.

Trust me, this is an experience you won't want to miss! So, mark your calendars and get hyped for nz.js(con) 2024 – it's gonna be legendary!

Tech meetups and conferences are the real deal, especially for those just getting started in the industry. These events open up a whole new world, offering way more than just a temporary experience.

We're talking about prime networking opportunities, knowledge-sharing sessions, and hands-on learning that'll take your skills to the next level. According to a study by the Events Industry Council, a whopping 83% of attendees reported gaining essential skills and knowledge from these events, with 76% saying it boosted their career prospects.

One of the biggest perks of attending these events is the chance to connect with industry leaders, experts, and like-minded individuals.

This networking can lead to scoring a mentor, potential job leads, or collaborations that might otherwise be tough to come by.

A survey by Meetup revealed that 92% of attendees found events helpful in expanding their professional networks.

But that's not all – tech meetups and conferences are also a constant source of learning and inspiration.

From insightful keynote speeches to hands-on workshops and coding challenges, these events offer a wealth of knowledge and practical experience. Complementing your learning journey with online resources like Codecademy, freeCodeCamp, and Udemy can take your skills even further, providing interactive tutorials, coding exercises, and a supportive community.

To make the most of attending these events, consider these tips:

1. Set clear goals: Figure out specific areas you want to learn or skills you want to develop.
2. Get involved: Participate in discussions, ask questions, and look for opportunities to contribute.
3. Network strategically: Introduce yourself to speakers, organizers, and fellow attendees with similar interests.
4. Follow up: Exchange contact info and keep the conversation going after the event.

Success stories are all around, with countless individuals crediting their attendance at tech events as a game-changer in their careers.

As a beginner, embracing these opportunities can be a total game-changer, equipping you with invaluable skills, connections, and the confidence to thrive in the ever-evolving world of technology.

Check out tips for building a standout tech portfolio to showcase your skills and attract local employers.