Pictured above: NZBusiness magazine Editor David Nothling-Demmer and some of the panellists at the Future Tech & Your Business event.
Forget the typical networking grind, NZBusiness’s sessions at the Icehouse offer high-impact conversations, standout speakers, and genuine connection. One founder explains why this is the must-attend event series for business owners serious about growth.
As a business owner and founder, I’ve attended a lot of networking events over the last year or so, but few hit the mark like the NZBusiness sessions hosted at the Icehouse. These events – like the most recent Future Tech & Your Business – strike the perfect balance: valuable conversations, high-calibre speakers, a room full of diverse business minds, and a format that encourages genuine connection without the usual sales noise.
One of the standout benefits is the diversity of attendees. Unlike industry-specific events, where you end up speaking to people in the same field, these gatherings attract business leaders, founders, and decision-makers across a wide range of sectors. That variety opens doors to fresh thinking, unexpected partnerships, and new ways of looking at familiar challenges.
The calibre of the panellists is another huge drawcard. I’ve seen CMOs, CEOs, CFOs, and senior leaders from some of New Zealand’s most respected businesses take the stage, sharing real insights from their own journeys. These are people who’ve ridden the wave to the top, offering sage, practical advice you’d usually expect to pay top dollar to hear. That level of access, especially when the cost to attend is zero, is something I genuinely value.
The topics themselves are always relevant and sharply curated. Each session tackles a subject that feels timely and useful – whether it’s about AI, leadership, customer growth, or innovation. These aren’t vague thought pieces. They’re focused conversations on what businesses are actively navigating right now.
The atmosphere is another reason I keep coming back. There’s nothing forced or contrived about the networking. Everyone is open, relaxed, and genuinely curious. You’re greeted with smiles. People are quick to introduce themselves. Name tags make connections easy, and the environment is warm, inclusive, and very conducive to meaningful conversation.
The Icehouse itself is the perfect venue. Central, easy to get to, with plenty of parking nearby – and more importantly, it feels like the kind of place where good business happens. There’s a sense of entrepreneurial energy in the space that elevates the whole event.
Then there’s the added generosity: The catering is consistently top-tier (I’m still thinking about the sliders from the last one), with excellent wine, beer, and non-alcoholic options. And at most events, one lucky attendee walks away with a high-value prize draw – just another thoughtful detail that adds to the overall experience.
Each panel discussion is professionally run by David and his team, with room for differing perspectives and robust debate. You’re not just being told what to think – you’re hearing from leaders who’ve done the work, challenged convention, and come out the other side with something valuable to say.
Case in point: the most recent session in June focused on AI and its impact on business. The discussion covered everything from automation and data use to the rising value of authentic human connection in an increasingly digital world. It was topical, energising, and full of takeaways I could immediately apply.
Huge thanks to the organisers, the speakers, the teams at NZBusiness and the Icehouse for consistently delivering such a high-quality experience. If you’re a business owner, founder, or leader looking to grow, learn, and connect – this is the room you want to be in.
Other Articles
