Asia Symposium 2026

This full-day symposium will feature keynote presentations, expert panels and facilitated discussions covering themes such as:

• the shifting geostrategic environment in Asia

• demographic change and technological transformation

• maritime security and resilient supply chains

• environmental challenges and sustainability

• the geopolitics of aid. 

Speakers include: 

• Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rt Hon Winston Peters 

• Professor Cheng-Chwee Kuik, Institute of Malaysian and International Studies, National University of Malaysia 

• Dr Deborah Elms, Head of Trade Policy, Hinrich Foundation, Singapore 

• Professor Akiko Fukushima, Senior Fellow, Tokyo Foundation, Japan 

• Professor Pavida Pananond, Thammasat Business School, Thailand 

• Dr Sinderpal Singh, Assistant Director, S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 

• Professor David Capie, Director, Centre for Strategic Studies, Victoria University of Wellington, and Trustee, Asia New Zealand Foundation, NZ 

• Professor Natasha Hamilton-Hart, Department of Management, University of Auckland Business School, NZ 

• Peter Kell, Foundation Senior Fellow 2026 and Chief Operating Officer, Obayashi Corporation, Japan/NZ 

• Anna Fifield, journalist and author, NZ    

Please RSVP to confirm your attendance.

A full programme of the event will be shared with registered attendees ahead of the symposium.