When our tamariki and rangatahi struggle with mental health challenges, traditional approaches often miss a crucial truth: healing and growth are rooted in our fundamental human need for secure attachment.

Just as navigating any journey requires clear landmarks, supporting our young people through mental health challenges demands reliable guideposts along the way. This conference aims to inspire both parents and professionals by illuminating key landmarks that may be missing or overlooked. Through the lens of developmental science and evidence-based theory, we'll explore natural solutions that foster connection and build resilience.

This isn't just another mental health conference—it's a paradigm shift in how we understand and support young people's journey to wellbeing, grounded in the science of human connection.

Join us to gain fresh perspectives on supporting growth and wellbeing. You'll leave with renewed hope and a roadmap for ensuring our tamariki and rangatahi have the strong foundation they need to thrive.

This year, we are excited to transition from online to in-person events, with conferences held in Christchurch and Auckland. We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Deborah MacNamara from Canada, who will deliver the keynote presentation, and Dr. Gordon Neufeld, who will join us via Zoom for the closing keynote. Our Neufeld Aotearoa team will also offer a range of informative and engaging seminars.

This conference is relevant for parents, caregivers, teachers, counsellors, social workers, mental health clinicians - basically anyone who knows a child and would like to hold and offer hope. We believe you can make a difference.

Please click here for full conference schedule

Neufeld Aotearoa Conference '25 Auckland