From Wellington to Dunedin to Auckland, that's exactly what we saw. Real conversations. New relationships. Old mates catching up and suppliers getting to hear straight from the people who use their gear every day.
Every city had its own flavour, but the energy was the same everywhere. Our members showed up, leaned in and made it their event.
For our suppliers, Konnect was a rare chance to step out from behind the counter and the catalogue. They got honest feedback on what's working, what's not, and what our members need from them over the next few years. That kind of insight is gold, and you don't get it from a survey or member review.
For our members, it was a reminder that you're not out there on your own. Whether you're a one-van operation or running a team of twenty, the challenges are often the same. Pricing pressure, finding good people, keeping up with change. Hearing how others are tackling those things is worth the trip on its own.
"Konnect 26 reminded us why we do this. It's not about the stage or the slides. It's about the handshake after the session, the laughs over a beer, and the conversation that turns into a partnership or a collab opportunity." – Tait Grindley, COO
Thanks to every member, supplier and team member who made it happen. Konnect 26 wasn't the finish line. It was the springboard for the next phase for NZ Trade Group.