More than oysters - Tee’s take on the oyster conference

Great Story. Great People. Even Better Oysters.

What a fantastic few days at the 2026 New Zealand Oyster Industry Association (NZOIA) AGM & conference. Held in one of New Zealand's beautiful oyster growing regions, Northland, the event brought together an industry that truly reflects the best of regional New Zealand. From family-owned oyster farms that have been part of local communities for generations, to large, listed companies and everything in between, there was a shared passion for the future of our industry.

The conversations throughout the conference reinforced what many of us already know: New Zealand oysters have an incredible story to tell.

We heard about innovation, resilience, science, sustainability, regional pride and the people working every day to produce a world-class product.

This year's theme, ‘Tide to Table’ captured perfectly where our industry is heading. As production and quality continue to strengthen, the opportunity is not just to grow more oysters, but to share the story behind them and celebrate the unique regions and people that make them exceptional.

Most importantly, the conference reminded us that our greatest strength is our people. The generosity of knowledge, willingness to collaborate, and genuine support for one another was evident at every session, competition, meal and conversation.

Great story. Great people. Even better product. Packaged by nature.

Thank you to the organisers, sponsors, presenters and everyone who contributed to another memorable NZOIA conference. The future of New Zealand oysters looks fantastic.

Tee Hale Pennington - CE, Aquaculture New Zealand