LawFest is New Zealand's premier legal innovation and technology conference and trade expo, organized by Andrew King of LegalInnovate. The event brings together legal professionals from across the country and abroad to explore how to innovate and adapt to change in the legal industry.
The conference covers a range of key topics, including generative AI, automation, leadership, culture, and capability. Sessions are designed to provide practical insights into leveraging technology to enhance the delivery of legal services.
Attendees can participate in networking opportunities, explore the expo hall featuring over 40 legal tech vendors, and hear from notable speakers such as Australian futurist Steve Sammartino. The event also includes interactive panel discussions and tech talks.
LawFest is ideal for legal professionals at all stages of their innovation journey, from those new to legal technology to those leading transformation. It offers valuable insights and networking opportunities to support the adoption of innovative practices in the legal field.
Categories
Speakers(23)
Alana Ashe
General Manager at LEAP New Zealand
Alana Ashe is the General Manager of LEAP New Zealand, overseeing operations and strategic initiatives.
Alistair van Schalkwyk
Director at Asco Legal
Alistair van Schalkwyk is a Director at Asco Legal, focusing on legal technology and innovation.
An-Ru Stevens
Principal Consultant at Risk Management Group
An-Ru Stevens is a Principal Consultant at Risk Management Group, specializing in risk management strategies for legal organizations.
Andrew Petersen
Managing Partner at Bell Gully
Andrew Petersen is the Managing Partner at Bell Gully, leading the firm in delivering comprehensive legal services.
Ben Gilbert
Head of Legal at Microsoft ANZ
Ben Gilbert serves as the Head of Legal for Microsoft ANZ, overseeing legal operations and compliance across the region.
Clayton Kimpton
Chief Executive at The Law Association of New Zealand
Clayton Kimpton is the Chief Executive of The Law Association of New Zealand, leading initiatives to support the legal profession.
Debbie Humphrey
Founder at D/srupt
Debbie Humphrey is the Founder of D/srupt, focusing on driving innovation and transformation within the legal industry.
Dr. Sarah Mitchell
Founder at Anadyne IQ
Dr. Sarah Mitchell is the Founder of Anadyne IQ, specializing in AI governance and responsible AI adoption.
Eirlys Beverley‑Stone
Technology Service Delivery Manager at Lane Neave
Eirlys Beverley‑Stone is the Technology Service Delivery Manager at Lane Neave, focusing on implementing technology solutions within the firm.
Hayden Wilson
New Zealand Chair and Global Vice Chair at Dentons
Hayden Wilson holds the positions of New Zealand Chair and Global Vice Chair at Dentons, focusing on legal innovation and leadership.
Hayley Weber
General Manager at WRMK
Hayley Weber is the General Manager at WRMK, leading the firm's practice management transformation.
Janey Haringa
Principal at JH LAW
Janey Haringa is the Principal of JH LAW and serves as the MC for LawFest 26, bringing her expertise in legal practice and innovation.
Jo Stevenson
People & Culture Director at Simpson Grierson
Jo Stevenson serves as the People & Culture Director at Simpson Grierson, focusing on talent development and organizational culture.
Josh McBride
Barrister and Technology Law Specialist at Richmond Chambers
Josh McBride is a barrister specializing in technology law at Richmond Chambers, focusing on integrating AI tools into legal workflows.
Joy Guo
Senior Associate at Duncan Cotterill
Joy Guo is a Senior Associate at Duncan Cotterill, focusing on technology law and AI governance.
Lynn Holtz
Digital Litigation Solutions National Manager at Chapman Tripp
Lynn Holtz is the Digital Litigation Solutions National Manager at Chapman Tripp, providing innovative litigation support services.
Renika Siciliano
Executive Director at McCaw Lewis
Renika Siciliano is the Executive Director at McCaw Lewis, overseeing the firm's strategic direction and operations.
Rick Shera
Partner at Lowndes Jordan
Rick Shera is a Partner at Lowndes Jordan, specializing in technology law and data protection.
Scott Moran
Founder & Director at MoranLaw
Scott Moran is the Founder and Director of MoranLaw, focusing on innovative legal service delivery.
Steve Sammartino
Australia's Leading Futurist
Steve Sammartino is Australia's leading futurist, known for his insights into technological advancements and their impact on business and society.
Susannah Bull
Assistant General Counsel at Lightspeed
Susannah Bull is the Assistant General Counsel at Lightspeed, overseeing legal operations and compliance.
Tessa van Duyn
CEO at Moores
Tessa van Duyn is the CEO of Moores, leading the firm in delivering innovative legal services and value-based pricing models.
Wenee Yap
Director of AI Literacy at 43° Below
Wenee Yap is the Director of AI Literacy at 43° Below, delivering tailored microcredentials to help legal professionals harness AI safely and effectively.
Event Details
- Date
- March 11-12, 2026
- 2 days
- Location
- 🇳🇿 Auckland, New Zealand
- Viaduct Events Centre
- Pricing
- Varies by tier
- Audience
- Legal professionals, including law firm partners, in-house counsel, legal innovators, and tech providers.
- CLE Credits
- Up to 25 CPD hours
- Attendees
- Over 400 attendees