Āpōpō Congress 2026 Speaker Preparation Information

19-21 May 2026
Claudelands Event Centre, Kirikiriroa, Hamilton

The following information is provided to ensure you have access to the important information as a presenter at the Āpōpō Congress 2026.

CONGRESS THEME

Apōpō Congress will explore the theme, Global Connections.

Trusted with the public purse and limited resources, infrastructure decision-makers carry the responsibility of delivering value for money for their communities. However, the concept of value in infrastructure transcends mere financial metrics, embodying a deeper connection between people, place, and purpose.

It reflects the ability of infrastructure to shape economies, uplift communities, preserve cultural identity, and harmonise with the natural environment, all while fostering resilience in the face of an uncertain future.

The true value lies in the integration of these elements, ensuring that infrastructure serves as a foundation for sustainable progress and collective wellbeing in the long term.

Speaker Brief

Click the link below to read our Congress speaker brief. Provides comprehensive information on the Congress audience.

Contact us

For further information contact:
Nerida Ramsay
T: 021 519 110
E: nerida@composition.co.nz

Presenter Guidelines

Slide Format

  • All presentations must be in 16:9 Widescreen format and the powerpoint presentation template provided.

Presenter Tips & Best Practices

1. Limit the Number of Slides

  • Aim for no more than one slide per minute of your presentation.

  • Use fewer slides if your content is complex or requires more explanation.

2. Ensure Slide Legibility

  • Just a reminder to please keep your presentation focused on your submission.

  • Keep slides clean, simple, and easy to read.

  • Avoid small fonts and cluttered visuals—especially since your audience may be viewing on small screens (phones, tablets, etc.).

  • Use concise bullet points to highlight key findings.

3. Design Visually Appealing Slides

  • Use high-quality graphics and minimal text.

  • Slides should support your verbal presentation—not replace it.

  • Let your narration carry the message; your slides should reinforce key points.

4. Video Content

  • You may embed videos directly into your slides.

  • However, we strongly recommend also providing separate .mp4 video files as a backup.

PowerPoint Presentation Template

A PowerPoint template is available for your convenience with some different slide options to select from (click on the button below to download).

What’s Available to you as a Presenter in the Room

What’s Available to you as a Presenter in the Room

As a presenter, the following equipment and support will be available in the room:

  • Audio Visual: Data projector and screen, lectern with microphone, and a handheld microphone (this can be shared amongst presenters), as well as a clicker to advance your slide.

  • Internet Access: Wi-fi will be available for presenters and delegates.

  • Support Staff: A session chair will be onsite to support you and provide time keeping support.

  • Technical Support: A technical support person (shared amongst rooms) will be available if you should require assistance.

If you have any additional requirements or questions ahead of time, please don’t hesitate to get in touch — we’re here to help you have a smooth and successful presentation!

Please review the full Congress programme, including your presentation time. Please note that the programme could have some changes leading up to the Congress, but you will be notified if your presentation is moved.

Click here to view the programme

Programme Timetable

Registration

All presenters must be registered for the full congress or the day they are presenting. Please ensure you are registered. If you are still to register, click on the below link to register at the presenters registration rate.

Top Tips for Presenting

To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a list of useful tips for delivering an effective presentation.

Upload your presentation slides here. Due date and link will be added closer to the Congress

Once you have created your presentation slides / PowerPoint, please upload it here to be transferred to the audio visual team.

Congress Presenter Checklist

Before the Event

  • Confirm date, time, and location of your session

  • Ensure you are registered for the Congress

  • Review the full programme and note your session details

  • Submit biography and photo (if not already provided)

  • Upload your presentation slides to the AV portal by Friday xxx

  • Bring a backup copy of your presentation on a USB or portal device

  • Review any provided PowerPoint templates or branding guidelines

  • Prepare your talk to fit the allocated time, including Q&A

  • Practice your presentation aloud (ideally with a timer)

On the Day

  • Arrive at least 15 minutes before your session

  • Check in with the AV team and session chair

  • Ensure your presentation is correctly loaded and working

  • Bring any notes, props as needed

  • Have a glass of water ready

  • Speak clearly and keep an eye on the time

  • Engage with the audience – eye contact, body language, pauses

  • Stay for Q&A if applicable