AI, innovation and future skills in focus as Ara hosts tech conference

Artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and the future of technology education will take centre stage at Ara Institute of Canterbury next week as Christchurch hosts one of New Zealand's key computing and information technology conferences.

From 7-9 October, CITRENZ 2026 will bring together educators, researchers, industry professionals, students and schools to explore how rapidly evolving technologies are changing the way people learn, work and innovate.

This year's theme, AI-Embedded Futures: Transforming Learning, Innovation and Industry, reflects the growing impact of artificial intelligence across education and the workplace.

Hosted by Ara at its City campus, the conference will feature more than 60 research papers and posters from institutions across New Zealand, alongside industry presentations, panel discussions and networking opportunities.

The event marks the return of the conference after it was unable to run in 2025. By stepping forward to host CITRENZ 2026, Ara has helped ensure an important forum for collaboration, research, mentoring and professional development continues for New Zealand's technology education community.

Conference Chair Mehdi Asgarkhani says the response from the sector has exceeded expectations.

"We received 66 research contributions from across the country, well above our original target. The breadth of topics shows how quickly technology is evolving and the importance of creating opportunities for educators, researchers and industry to come together and share knowledge."

Research presentations will explore topics ranging from AI-enabled learning, cybersecurity and ethical computing to industry engagement, digital transformation, student success and emerging technologies.

Unlike many computing conferences, CITRENZ has a strong focus on technology education, giving educators the opportunity to share practical approaches to teaching, learner success and industry-connected learning.

Submissions were grouped into six broad themes, including generative AI, cybersecurity, work-integrated learning, industry partnerships, equity in education and emerging digital technologies, reflecting many of the key opportunities and challenges facing the sector.

The programme also highlights pathways into technology careers. A session from the Electrotechnology, Information Technology and Creative Industry Skills Board will provide an update on the development of Applied Intelligent Systems, a new industry-led secondary school subject, while another panel will feature three Ara Bachelor of ICT graduates who have gone on to become technology educators.

Ara staff and researchers feature strongly throughout the conference, presenting work on AI capability development, curriculum innovation, transnational education, digital learning and industry-connected research.

The conference has also contributed significantly to Ara's research activity, with staff contributing papers, posters, workshops and panel discussions across the programme.

Asgarkhani says hosting the conference creates opportunities to strengthen connections between secondary schools, tertiary education and industry.

"We've connected with secondary schools and are keen to share the exciting opportunities available in computing and technology careers. AI and digital technologies are reshaping every industry, and events like this help make those conversations accessible."

"The discussion is increasingly moving beyond how we respond to AI and towards how educators, learners and organisations can use these technologies effectively. The focus is on developing practical strategies that help people realise the benefits of AI while preparing for the future of work."

Faculty Dean of Applied Technology Peter Sauer says hosting CITRENZ aligns with Ara's commitment to industry-connected learning, applied research and preparing learners for a rapidly changing digital future.

"Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are transforming every industry, creating new opportunities and new challenges for educators, employers and learners alike.

"We're proud to welcome colleagues from across New Zealand to Ōtautahi for these important conversations. Bringing together researchers, industry professionals, educators, students and schools helps build the connections and ideas that will shape the future of technology education and the workforce."

The full programme and additional information about CITRENZ 2026 can be found at: Computing and IT Education and Research Conference (CITRENZ) 2026.