AI is changing how we make things - not just what we make. The Future of Creativity & AI is the second event in IAB New Zealand's Future of AI series, bringing together highly skilled digital advertising practitioners to explore how AI is reshaping the creative process - from ideation and production to culture and workflows. Our keynote speakers will share global trends and local insights. Tickets are free for IAB New Zealand members and paid for non-members. Be quick, spots are limited.
Event Details
Date: Thursday 9 April 2026
Time: 3pm - 5:30pm
Venue: Google, Level 6, 10 Madden Street, Wynyard Quarter Auckland
Tickets: Free for IAB New Zealand Members. Non-members: $95 + GST + BF
Networking & Refreshments from 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Thank you to our event sponsor

Jake
Calder

Founder, FugazAI
Jake has over 10 years of digital experience working with large brands in NZ and globally and has developed a strong understanding of market and technology trends. He has a unique ability to identify and analyse emerging technologies and their potential impact on society and business. From AI to streaming services and beyond, Jake is well-versed in a wide range of media consumption behaviours and cutting-edge technologies.
Jake
Chalkley

Senior UX Designer, Google
Originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, Jake has been with Google for 13 years. He has worked on transitioning agencies from Adobe Flash to HTML5 Rich Media Ads, designed tools for Privacy and Security, and founded projects as part of Google's Area 120 startup incubator. Most recently Jake has been working on AI Fitness and AI Coding Agent applications. In his spare time, he enjoys using AI to envision home renovations and plan his next vacation.
Emily
Isle

Chief Digital Officer, MBM
Emily is a passionate digital leader with 20 years industry experience spanning NZ, US and global export. She has held posts specialising in full Emily has been at MBM New Zealand for 7 years, fueling the alchemy of talent and product to future-proof client business and deliver creative and effective digital experiences. Emily recently attended SXSW in Austin Texas - the world's biggest convergence of tech, creativity and culture and will share her insights.
Heath Waugh

Founder, Matter Studio
Matter Studio is one of the world's first hybrid AI content studios. Involved in commercial photography for 24 years, Heath has produced work for some of NZ and Australia's most recognised brands and agencies. Heath was an early mover in applying AI to professional image production - building on the conviction that creative craft and expertise matter more in the AI era, not less. He writes and speaks on AI imagery's practical, ethical, and legal realities, and its implications for the creative industry.
Level 6, 10 Madden Street, Wynyard Quarter Auckland
