Intelligent Law.
Human Leadership.
30–31 October 2026 | Dunedin
Registration Information
Conference 2026 is open to Lawset members and invited guests.
Registration includes:
- Access to all conference sessions
- Conference catering and refreshments
- Welcome networking event at Vault 21
- Gala Dinner at Larnach Castle
- Opportunities to connect with peers, suppliers and guest speakers
Register Now
Scan the QR code or click here>>
Need assistance? Contact the Lawset’s Membership Manager: michelle@lawset.co.nz.
Programme
Conference 2026 unfolds across two distinct days of learning, leadership and connection. Friday’s programme brings together shareholders, directors and senior leaders to explore firm performance, strategy and membership benefits, before the conversation expands on Saturday to include professionals from across Lawset member firms for a day focused on innovation, AI, people and leadership.
Venue & Accommodation
Fable Dunedin
Conference sessions will be held at Fable Dunedin, located in the heart of the city and within easy walking distance of many local attractions, restaurants and accommodation options.
Alternative accommodation options within walking distance are:
Beyond the conference sessions
Welcome Networking Event | Vault 21 – Friday 30th October
Start Conference 2026 by reconnecting with colleagues, meeting fellow delegates and getting to know our guest speakers in a relaxed social setting. Join us at Vault 21 for an evening of great food, conversation and connection in the heart of Dunedin.
Vault 21 is a short walk from the conference venue, Fable. Doors open at 6pm and main meal will be served at 7pm.
Dress code is casual.
Drac’s Den | Vault 21 | 21 The Octagon | Dunedin
Gala Dinner | Larnach Castle – 31st October 2026
The conference concludes with an unforgettable evening at one of New Zealand’s most iconic heritage venues. Enjoy dinner, live music and celebration as Lawset members, companions and speakers gather for a memorable Halloween event at Larnach Castle.
Buses depart Fable at 6:30pm and depart Larnach Castle for the return trip at 11:30pm.
Dress code is smart casual.
The Ballroom | Larnach Castle | 145 Camp Road | Dunedin
Meet the speakers and sponsors
Friday 30th Oct.
Sam Coupland
Benchmarking and law firm performance
One of Australasia’s leading law firm consultants, Sam advises firms on profitability, succession and growth. Using Lawset benchmarking data and broader industry trends, he will share practical insights into firm performance and strategic decision-making.
Saturday 31st Oct.
Joel Barolsky
Industry update
A respected adviser to law firm leaders across Australia and New Zealand, Joel Barolsky brings deep insight into strategy, market positioning, governance and the future direction of professional services firms.
Saturday 31st Oct.
Professor Alex Sims
AI and the development of graduate lawyers
Alex Sims is a Professor in University of Auckland Business School’s Department of Commercial Law. Her research areas include intellectual property law, particularly copyright law, law and technology and consumer law.
Saturday 31st Oct.
Joe Considine
The commercial benefits of a diverse workforce
Joe is ANZ New Zealand’s Head of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and the co-founderof Mobilise – a dedicated leadership development and allyship program specifically for men.
Joe’s mission is to help organisations create world class workplaces of the future where cultures of inclusion and belonging sit at the heart of high performance.
Saturday 31st Oct.
Bradley Hook
Staying human in the age of intelligence
Author, speaker and founder, Brad Hook helps leaders and teams thrive in rapidly changing environments. His session focuses on performance, wellbeing, resilience and keeping people at the centre of leadership.
Saturday 31st Oct.
Kayur Patel
AI in Practice: Lessons from implementing AI with law firms around the world.
Kayur Patel is a Director in PwC New Zealand’s Generative AI & Emerging Technology team. Over the past two years, he has worked with 200 clients on their AI journeys. Drawing on that experience, Kayur will share what he has learned about making AI work in practice: where organisations are creating value, what is holding adoption back, the mistakes to avoid, and what law firm leaders should be doing now to prepare their people, operating models and governance for what comes next.
Saturday 31st Oct.
Cam Calkoen
Challenge perception. Achieve more.
The way we see people shapes how we lead, communicate and build relationships.
Drawing on powerful storytelling, authenticity and humour, Cam explores how changing our perspective can strengthen culture, deepen connection and unlock new opportunities.
Delegates will leave inspired to build more inclusive teams, foster innovation and create environments where every individual feels valued, empowered and able to contribute their best.
We appreciate our
Platinum Sponsor
ANZ Bank
We extend our thanks to ANZ Bank New Zealand, Lawset’s preferred banking partner and platinum sponsor of Conference 2026, for its valued support of this event and our wider member network.
