Inspiring T-Tech breaks records and launches awards

This story first appeared in the April issue of AutoTalk – CLICK HERE to download the magazine FREE

I’m in a position to reflect on the incredible success of the T-Tech Conference in Christchurch on May 6 and 7.

Feedback received from senior industry players from New Zealand and Australia is that T-Tech equals the calibre of international conferences in Australia and North America.

A record 173 people represents growth of 16% in only its second year – this was the first time ITS NZ had its annual conference in Christchurch.

The growth can be attributed to the quality of the event programme and the increasing importance and interest in ITS and future transport solutions.

The T-Tech programme, featured 30% more speakers, 21% more women speakers, more youth and academia, (48 speakers in total) and introduced a split stream component with topics covering everything from mobility, technology innovations, social change and transport policy.

ITS NZ also included awards for best papers and presentations, which produced a high calibre of presentations.

The recipients won $5000 worth of travel and expenses towards an international transport conference of their choice.

Announced at the conference, which coincided with Road Safety Week, was a determination from ITS NZ to gather industry input and achieve better transport safety through ITS.

Safety being one of the three focus areas for ITS NZ alongside increasing efficiency and sustainability.

Our plans include developing a working group, surveying members and industry to find proven cost-effective solutions and to encourage testing of promising new technologies.

ITS NZ also announced new awards.We have partnered on a large exhibition booth with ITS Australia and ITS Asia-Pacific, providing the opportunity for New Zealand business and government to promote themselves at the world’s biggest ITS conference, ITS World Congress in Singapore, contact us if interested.