Driving Excellence

Following the success of the 22nd NZTA Pavements Conference in Ōtuatahi, Christchurch last year, REAAA have been asked to help deliver the NZTA Pavements Conference again.  The Pavements Conference is usually a 2-day event, held every 2 years, with the next one due in 2027.  

As there are many relevant updates for the sector, NZTA have decided this warrants a 1-day Pavements Forum, as an additional event.  
REAAA are preparing this event to be held the day before the REAAA LVR, at the same venue in Kirikiriroa, Hamilton. 
Sponsorship and exhibitors are coordinated for the full 3 days.  There will be one combined social event in between the Pavements Forum and LVR.  

We’re thrilled to share news about our upcoming NZTA Pavements Forum, themed “Driving Excellence.” This is a fantastic opportunity to hear from NZTA executive and technical teams as they share insights on our strategic objectives, discuss alignment with the asset management strategy, and highlight our progress in delivery under IDM for pavements and surfacing. Get ready for an engaging event packed with thought-provoking presentations, lively discussions, and valuable connections — all designed to empower our industry and shape the road ahead together.    

Driving Excellence brings together NZTA leaders, technical specialists, and industry professionals for a full day focused on the future of pavements and surfacing. The forum will explore strategic direction, asset management priorities, and delivery progress under the Integrated Delivery Model approach, giving attendees the opportunity to hear directly from influential voices across the programme. Proposed speakers include Brett Gliddon opening the event with our strategic direction, Adam Leslie on the purpose, goals and strategic alignment of the Office of the Chief Engineer, and Cate Quinn on the State Highway asset management strategy for pavements.

The programme also features Sean Rainsford on lifecycle asset management planning, Rochelle Leach speaking on Asset Management Excellence, Robert Choveaux on the IDM commercial approach, and David Alabaster and team sharing updates from the Pavement Team, including topics such as ecological stewardship and seal design. Additional sessions from Richard Jackett on low-noise surfacing and Andrew McKillop from the Road Efficiency Group further strengthen the line-up, offering a well-rounded mix of strategic insight, technical depth, and practical relevance. Together, these discussions will highlight both the challenges and opportunities involved in delivering excellence across the network.

More than just a conference, Driving Excellence is a chance to connect, learn, and contribute to the conversation about where the industry is heading next. From the opening welcome through to the closing wrap-up, the forum offers a mix of strategic insight, technical depth, and practical relevance that will be valuable for anyone involved in pavements, surfacing, and asset management.

Registration Link: https://cvent.me/QY0Wdn‍