Welcome

The New Zealand Association of Optometrists is delighted to host our 96th Annual Conference at Huihui, Parliament from Friday 16 to Saturday 17 October 2026.

This conference is a key annual gathering for practitioners across Aotearoa, offering rich opportunities for networking, professional development, workshops, sector insights, and exhibition engagement. 

Caring for sight, caring for self - thriving in a changing optometry landscape In Aotearoa New Zealand

Optometrists are kaitiaki of vision and wellbeing, caring not only for eyes, but for people, whānau, and communities. As our landscape shifts with advances in AI, growing hospital and community roles, and changing employment settings, the way we practise continues to evolve.

This year’s conference focuses on how we can thrive in this changing environment while honouring both hauora (wellbeing) and ako (learning). Through a rich programme of CPD presentations , workshops, and reflective sessions, we will explore the skills, knowledge, and resilience needed to support excellent patient care and sustainable, fulfilling careers.

Optometrists and industry partners from across Aotearoa come together to learn, connect, and strengthen whanaungatanga (relationships) within our profession.

Together, we’ll explore what it means to care for sight and to care for ourselves, as we shape the future of optometry in Aotearoa.

 

Keynote speaker

Professor Lauren Ayton
BOptom PhD FAAO FACO GCOT GAICD

Prof Lauren Ayton is a clinician-scientist and internationally recognised leader in retinal disease, low vision and vision restoration. Trained in optometry with a PhD from the University of Melbourne, she has led pioneering work in bionic eye and vision prosthesis programs across Australia and internationally, including collaborations with Harvard.

Events

First Aid
First Aid Training
Optional pre-conference workshop

Date: Thursday 15 October 2026
Session time: 2pm - 6pm
Location: Eye Institute Wellington, Level 1, Bell Gully Building, 40 Lady Elizabeth Lane, Wellington Central
Cost: $180 
Places: Limited to 18 participants per session . We need a minimum of 10 for the course to proceed.

This First Aid Revalidation course covers NZQA Unit Standards 6401 and 6402 and is ideal for optometrists  who need to maintain their certification or update their knowledge.

Register now to secure your spot. Limited spaces!
Register when purchasing your conference ticket, or purchase as a separate ticket. For any questions email membership@nzao.co.nz.

 

Wellbeing run

5km wellbeing run
Saturday morning - Wellington waterfront

Join our conference run, a simple way to practice selfcare while connecting with colleagues. Open to all fitness levels, this relaxed route is about movement, fresh air and supporting your wellbeing alongside professional learning.

 

Annual General Meeting

NZAO Annual General Meeting

The New Zealand Association of Optometrists’ 2026 Annual General Meeting will be held in Wellington at Huihui Parliament on Saturday 17th October 2026 commencing at 10am. At the meeting, we will present our Annual Report, share highlights of our work over the past year, and outline our vision and priorities for the year ahead.

 

Debate

Alan Styles Memorial Debate
Team Ryan O’Connor vs Team Alex Petty

The Alan Styles Memorial Debate returns to close the conference with lively discussion and insight.

This year’s moot asks: “This House believes publicly funded primary eye care would do more harm than good for the New Zealand optometry profession.”

Defending champions Alex Petty, Andrew Sangster and Clare Luoni will argue the affirmative, challenged by Ryan O’Connor, Shannon Tubman and Vishal Narkhede on the negative. Expect a spirited debate honouring Alan Styles’ legacy.

 

Gala Dinner

Gala Dinner
Foxglove Restaurant

Join us at Foxglove for an evening of connection, celebration and great hospitality on Wellington’s waterfront. The Gala Dinner is a highlight of the conference, offering the perfect setting to unwind with colleagues, enjoy excellent food and entertainment, and celebrate the optometry community in Aotearoa.