The Electrify Queenstown summit will return in May with a programme combining political debate, high-profile speakers, immersive electric experiences and practical advice for businesses and households ready to electrify.

Delivered by Destination Queenstown and Lake Wānaka Tourism, with principal sponsor Aurora Energy, Electrify Queenstown 2026 will be held across three days at the Queenstown Events Centre (May 17-19).

It will feature a political debate - The Future of New Zealand’s Energy System - with representatives from National, Labour, the Green Party, and The Opportunity Party for an on-stage energy discussion moderated by journalist Paddy Gower.

"Electrification is vital for the future of the district and as a business owner, I’ve seen firsthand how smart energy choices can strengthen resilience and reduce long-term costs,” Queenstown Lakes District mayor John Glover said.

"Electrify Queenstown is valuable because it shows what’s already working, locally. It gives people practical confidence that these solutions are achievable, scalable and relevant to our community."

The summit will also feature a lineup of national and international speakers shaping the future of electrification, energy and transport, along with panel discussions on everything from electrification myth-busting to finance.

Attendees will be able to visit smart homes and businesses, get hands-on with the latest e-bikes, e-boats, e-vehicles, solar panels, batteries, heat pumps, and household tech, and also receive practical, direct advice in the ‘How-to-Hub’, hosted by Queenstown Electrification Accelerator.

Destination Queenstown and Lake Wānaka Tourism chief executive Mat Woods said Electrify Queenstown continues to evolve as electrification gathers pace.

"Across the country we’re seeing electrification move from early adoption to the mainstream, and this summit captures that moment - bringing together political leaders, global thinkers and real-world examples to show what’s possible, what’s next, and how communities and businesses can be part of the transition.

He said, with the general election this October, Electrify Queenstown 2026 will provide an opportunity to hear directly from politicians about how they plan to power New Zealand’s future.

Speakers and panellists include renewable electricity advocate, entrepreneur and inventor Dr Saul Griffith, Rewiring Aotearoa’s Mike Casey, and Queenstown-based Xero founder Sir Rod Drury, all returning for a second year, along with Aotearoa environmentalist and entrepreneur Izzy Fenwick.

Tickets are now on sale for Electrify Queenstown 2026, with options to attend individual days, events, or the full three-day programme.

Find more information here.