From artificial intelligence in asset management to climate-resilient infrastructure, Future Roads 2025 showcased the ideas and innovations shaping the future of New Zealand’s roading networks.
Future Roads 2025, held on 19–20 November at Claudelands Events Centre in Hamilton, brought together leaders from road-controlling authorities, central and local government, engineering consultancies, contractors, and technology innovators to explore the future of New Zealand’s transport and roading networks.
Across two days, delegates engaged with international keynote speakers, attended parallel technical streams, facilitated table discussions, explored a large-scale equipment showcase, and enjoyed extensive networking opportunities. Day one concluded with the conference dinner and presentation of the second annual New Zealand roading industry Rising Star Award, sponsored by Jacobs.
Highlights
Future Roads attracted 328 registered delegates, alongside 54 sponsors and exhibitors, representing 154 organisations. The programme featured 74 speakers, facilitators and panellists, offering a breadth of insight across policy, engineering, construction, technology, and asset management.
Top-rated sessions included:
- a keynote address and state highway maintenance update from the New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA)
- a strategic priorities update from Fulton Hogan
- a ministerial address from the Hon. Chris Bishop, Minister of Transport and Minister for Infrastructure
- practical sessions on implementing artificial intelligence (AI) in roading, delivered by Auckland Transport and EY Parthenon.
Emerging themes
Across the programme, several clear themes emerged, signalling a sector shifting from reactive delivery towards integrated, proactive network management.
Leadership and government direction
NZTA’s strategic direction, funding pathways, regulatory settings and the growing role of iwi partnership framed much of the discussion. The need for long-term certainty to support planning, investment and capability development was emphasised.
Collaboration and procurement reform
Speakers highlighted the importance of consistent standards, clearer contract models, and coordinated planning across agencies, consultants and contractors. Improved procurement approaches were repeatedly identified as essential to boosting productivity and strengthening pipeline confidence.
Network futureproofing
Climate resilience, drainage and resealing techniques, and long-term adaptation planning featured prominently. Case studies demonstrated how climate-responsive design and maintenance practices are becoming part of core business, rather than optional enhancements.
Technology and data-driven decision-making
From predictive maintenance to real-time traffic monitoring, technology was presented not as a distant aspiration, but as a practical enabler already reshaping asset management. Delegates explored how data systems, digital twins and emerging construction technologies can support smarter, more efficient operations.
Sustainability and materials innovation
Sustainability was woven throughout the programme, with discussions on recycled aggregates, bitumen supply, life cycle assessment and carbon measurement. Presenters emphasised the shift towards long-term value, durability and environmental performance across the full asset life cycle.
Value add: continuing professional development
Future Roads 2025 delivered significant continuing professional development value. Delegates gained recognised learning hours while engaging with practical case studies, new technologies and evolving industry standards. The combination of technical sessions, facilitated discussions, and hands-on demonstrations ensured that learning was both relevant and immediately applicable.
Celebrating excellence: The Rising Star Award
The conference dinner following day one featured the presentation of the annual New Zealand roading industry Rising Star Award, recognising an outstanding professional under age 40 for career achievement and sector contribution.
The 2025 recipient, Nick Brewer, Asset Information and Systems Manager at HEB Construction, was celebrated for his innovative use of GIS technology to transform emergency response. Drawing on nine years of pipelaying experience and an environmental science background, Brewer developed a practical app following the 2021 Marlborough floods – an initiative that has since been freely shared across the industry. His work exemplifies the innovation, collaboration and real-world impact the award seeks to recognise.
Congratulations to Brewer and to all nominees who continue to lift capability across the sector.
Save the date for 2026
Future Roads will return to Claudelands Events Centre, Hamilton, on 25–26 November 2026.
Planning is already underway to expand the technical streams, deepen the focus on digital delivery, and bring even more international insight to New Zealand’s roading community.
To secure your place and stay updated on programme announcements, visit www.futureroads.co.nz.