Institute of Health Psychology Symposium 2026

About the Symposium

Held at the Hamilton Gardens, this two-day symposium will bring together health psychologists, researchers, and practitioners from across Aotearoa to connect, share current research and clinical innovation, and strengthen our professional community.

Whether you are working in clinical, academic, or community settings, this event offers a space to reflect and grow our collective practice.

Further details on speakers and the programme will be released soon.

Confirmed speakers include

• Dr Andre McLaughlan Ngāti Apa and Muaūpoko, Clinical Psychologist, Researcher & Author: Neurodevelopment through the matapihi of a Whare Tupuna
• Dr Kathryn Mannix, Palliative Care Consultant (UK): Dying to learn: why learning about dying helps us to care for the living
• Sarah Mooney & Sarah Butler, Respiratory Physiotherapists: ‘Just breathe’ … if only it was that simple!  
• Meihana Douglas, Health Psychologist:  Dialectical Behaviour Therapy with Māori: Opportunities for Growth
• Dr Kate Hebenton, Clinical Psychologist: Functional Neurological Disorder (FND): What is it?! What do I do?!  

Symposium Dinner

Join us on Monday evening for a relaxed and social dinner at Reggie’s, one of Hamilton East’s favourite local spots.

This will be a chance to unwind after the first day, connect with colleagues, and continue conversations over great food. Expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere, delicious shared dishes, and a touch of Italian-inspired comfort. A perfect way to bring the symposium community together!

Dinner is included in the cost of the Symposium. Drinks available to purchase. 

For both dinner and symposium catering, please let us know during registration if you have dietary requirements.

Pricing

All rates are in NZD and include the symposium dinner on Monday evening. For any queries or assistance regarding pricing, please contact the symposium committee. One day rates available upon request. 

Prices:

Students: $200     

Early career (1-4 years qualified): $380

Early career - non member: $450

Advanced career - member (5+ years qualified): $450

Advanced career non member: $550

*Early bird pricing of 10% discount available until mid-August

Please note on registration form if you have any accessibility needs and note dietary restrictions in your Gecco profile. 

Accommodation

We’re fortunate to have a discount rate for accommodation at both the Ibis and the Novotel Hamilton for those attending the symposium:

ibis Hamilton Tainui

A great, affordable option with comfortable rooms in the heart of the city centre (10 minutes drive from Hamilton Gardens)

Novotel Hamilton Tainui

A more premium option, offering modern facilities, on-site dining, and additional comfort (10 minutes drive from Hamilton Gardens)

To book accommodation, please use the following link:

2026 Institute of Health Psychology Symposium - Accor Meetings & Events

Exploring Hamilton

Hamilton is a foodie’s dream, with fantastic cafés, restaurants, and local spots to explore.

From riverside walks along the Waikato River to boutique shops and cosy bookstores, there’s plenty to enjoy if you’re arriving early or staying on after the symposium.

A curated guide to food, drinks, and local recommendations is available here.

Contact

For enquiries, please contact the organising committee:

Debbie Bean | Debbie.Bean@aut.ac.nz

Jenny Allison | Jenny.Allison@middlemore.co.nz

Katie Babbott | Kathryn.Babbott@middlemore.co.nz

Julia Woolford | JWoolford@adhb.govt.nz

We acknowledge tangata whenua of Kirikiriroa / Hamilton, including Waikato-Tainui, as mana whenua of this rohe. We are grateful to be gathering on this whenua and pay our respects to their enduring connection to the land, waterways, and community.

Institute of Health Psychology | Aotearoa New Zealand