Future Whenua Summit – Tairāwhiti

Future Whenua Summit 2026 heads to Tāwhari in Tairāwhiti / Gisborne for the sixth edition of this three-day gathering focused on biodiversity, mosaic land use, and the future of rural resilience in Aotearoa. Founded on a Southland sheep farm and now hosted in a different region each year, the Summit brings together farmers, growers, iwi, researchers, entrepreneurs and grassroots changemakers to explore practical, land-based solutions for long-term ecological and economic health. In a region shaped by world-class horticulture, significant Māori land stewardship, forestry pressures, and recovery from Cyclone Gabrielle, this year’s programme will spotlight predominantly local voices alongside a handful of national contributors. Expect farm visits, workshops, panels and plenty of quality kōrero and kai, all designed to strengthen regional capability, connect aligned people, and move from good ideas to grounded action.