Information on - AGM 2026
Behind the Tools is a practical business summit for owners, managers and team leaders looking to work smarter, reduce risk and plan for growth. Hear from industry experts across AI, insurance, legal protection, upskilling, standards and regulations with insights you can apply back in your business. Coming to:
New Plymouth | Hamilton | Christchurch | Invercargill
Why attend?
Support Business Growth: Behind the Tools is designed to help business owners and teams strengthen their operations, identify new opportunities and make more confident decisions for the future.
Reduce Risk: Gain practical advice on how to better protect your business, prepare for insurance renewals and reduce common risks such as liability, claims issues and cyber threats.
Future-Proof Your Business: Learn how AI, upskilling and smarter business planning can help you stay competitive, improve productivity and unlock new service opportunities.
Stay Compliant and Informed: Get useful insights into standards and regulations, helping you stay across key requirements and reduce business headaches.
What’s covered?
| Speaker / organisation | Topic | What you’ll learn |
| Tim Warren | AI and the Future of Businesses | How AI is starting to reshape business operations, productivity and decision-making, with practical ways to use emerging technology more effectively. |
| Marsh Insurance | Reducing Risk and Minimising Business Headaches | Practical advice on claims, liability, cyber threats, insurance renewals and how to reduce common business risks. |
| Ford Sumner Lawyers | Protecting Your Business and Assets | Guidance on business structures, legal planning and ways to better protect your business and personal assets. |
| Cuthbert Stewart Ltd | The Business Benefit of Upskilling | How expanding skills in test and measurement, automation and energy management can create new service opportunities and support growth. |
| TradeMaster | An Insight into Your Standards and Regs | A practical update on current standards and regulations to help you stay informed, compliant and prepared. |
Networking Opportunities
Behind the Tools also provides an opportunity to connect with other business owners, industry professionals, speakers and partners.
Use the event to ask questions, share ideas and build connections with people facing similar business challenges and opportunities.
Whether you are behind the tools, managing the day-to-day operations, or planning your next stage of growth, this event is designed to support your business journey.
Who should attend?
This event is ideal for business owners, managers, team leaders and industry professionals looking to grow their business, reduce risk and stay ahead of change.
Whether you are a sole trader, part of an administration team, or managing a larger operation, Behind the Tools will give you practical insights to help your business work smarter.
Event Details
New Plymouth
Monday 11 August
Plymouth International Hotel
3pm to 7pm
Hamilton
Monday 26 August
The Long Room, Wintec House
3pm to 7pm
Christchurch
Wednesday 17 September
Air Force Museum
12pm to 4pm
Invercargill
Monday 29 September
Ascot Park Hotel
3pm to 7pm
