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Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland will host 3800 Indigenous educators and leaders next week for the World Indigenous Peoples’ Conference on Education (WIPCE 2025) — the event’s first return to Aotearoa in two decades.
Running November 16–20 at the Aotea Centre, the conference will feature keynote sessions, wānanga, panel discussions and workshops focused on advancing Indigenous education and knowledge systems. Delegates from more than 20 cultures will join a pōwhiri and Parade of Nations on opening day, bringing colour and ceremony to central Auckland.
Hosted by Te Wānanga Aronui o Tāmaki Makaurau – AUT with iwi manaaki Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, WIPCE 2025 is themed around unity, Indigenous determination and strengthening global connections. Co-Chairs Dr Noe Noe Wilson-Wong, Dr Bentham Ohia, Professor Damon Salesa and Professor Meihana Durie say the gathering is an opportunity to share experiences, uphold culture and reimagine the future of Indigenous education.
Meihana says the event comes at a critical time. “Indigenous rights remain under immense pressure. WIPCE brings global scholars and champions together to amplify aspirations, remove barriers and drive intergenerational change.”
The conference is also expected to deliver an economic boost, with Tātaki Auckland Unlimited estimating $8.275 million in economic impact and more than 16,600 visitor nights — the highest attendance ever recorded for an academic conference in New Zealand.
Speakers include Distinguished Professor Linda Tuhiwai-Smith, Professor Leonie Pihama, Dr Teina Rongo and actor-producer Cliff Curtis.
A free public festival, Te Ao Pūtahi, will run in Aotea Square from November 16, offering kapa haka, live music, workshops, storytelling and Indigenous kai and craft.
More information, including the full programme and festival details, is available at wipce2025.com
