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Tickets are nearly sold out for Electrify Queenstown 2026, with the three-day event expected to bring visitors to Queenstown for discussions on the country’s energy future.
Running from May 17 to 19, the event will host policymakers, industry leaders and international experts across venues including the Queenstown Events Centre.
Leaders’ debate centrepiece
A key drawcard is The Future of New Zealand’s Energy System debate on May 18, moderated by journalist Paddy Gower.
Confirmed speakers include Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour, Leader of the Opposition Chris Hipkins, Energy Minister Simeon Brown, Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick, Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones and The Opportunities Party leader Qiulae Wong.
Organisers say all 400 tickets for the debate session have sold out.
Focus on energy transition
The programme will explore electrification as a way to reduce costs, improve productivity and strengthen energy resilience, with sessions covering transport, green finance and renewable technologies.
Speakers include Rewiring Aotearoa chief executive Mike Casey and international energy expert Saul Griffith.
Tourism and community appeal
Electrify Queenstown also includes hands-on experiences aimed at both locals and visitors, including home tours, electric transport demonstrations and a free community hub offering practical advice on solar, batteries and energy use.
The event is backed by Aurora Energy as principal sponsor.
Organisers say the mix of policy discussion and practical experiences is designed to attract a broad audience, from households to businesses, while adding to Queenstown’s calendar of events drawing visitors outside the peak season.
