Downstream 2026 in review

Downstream 2026 brought together 578 attendees from 231 organisations, convening leaders and experts to examine the strategic, regulatory, and operational challenges shaping New Zealand's energy future.
The programme - spanning keynotes, panels, and case studies - focused on energy transition pathways, supply chain resilience, infrastructure readiness, and evolving market and policy settings. More importantly, it reinforced the event's role as a critical forum for cross-sector engagement.

Practical focus

This year's event marked a clear shift toward substance. Delegates favoured practical, data-driven insight and candid discussion over high-level or promotional content, reflecting a more mature view of the trade-offs between decarbonisation, affordability, and security of supply. Technically rigorous sessions - including LNG, Huntly, EV charging, and demand flexibility - drove strong engagement.

Key takeaways

• strong demand for candid leadership discussion on transition risk, infrastructure, and fuel mix
• high engagement with technically detailed content
• growing appetite for interactive formats such as round tables
• active debate in political and regulatory sessions
• networking consistently cited as a core source of value
• Tākina highly rated for quality and scale

Value

With 102 speakers and 51 sponsors and exhibitors, Downstream 2026 reinforced its position as a key platform for industry connection. Overall, 92% of respondents rated the conference as "Good", "Very good" or "Excellent."

As one delegate noted:

"I thoroughly enjoyed the event and learnt a lot about the industry."

At a time of complex change, Downstream 2026 delivered what the sector needs most - honest conversations, practical insight, and stronger alignment on the path ahead.