Frequently Asked Questions

How do I register?

You can register online at sadd.org.nz/conference

What is included in the cost?

The registration cost is $185 and this includes all accommodation, food, activities and a limited edition t-shirt. You just need to get to the venue and we take care of everything from there.

Can I just come for the day sessions and stay at home overnight?

We do request that everyone stays on site for the entire duration of the event. Our programme is full, including evening sessions, and part of the experience is all staying on site together. If you think this may be a problem for you please feel free to contact our team in advance to discuss your situation.

What is the accommodation like?

We are kindly hosted by boarding houses at high schools (Christchurch at St Andrews College and Cambridge at St Peters College). There will be separate houses/wings allocated for boys and girls and our staff also stay on site for the entire event.

Is the food good?

You will be well fed and happy :) If you have any special dietary requirements make sure you let us know when you register so we can ensure there are options available for you.

What will I be doing at conference?

Heaps! We have a full agenda with a mix of team activities, guest speakers, team challenges, games, social sessions and loads of learning opportunties. You won't be bored and you will have plenty of opportunity to get creative and have lots of fun.

Who else will be there?

Conference is aimed at secondary school aged students so there will be people from other schools around the country who are like-minded and also keen to learn about Kaitiaki o Ara/SADD and road safety. Every year we get loads of students tell us that they loved making new friends and we provide a great opportunity for you to do this right from the start so don't worry if you don't know anyone when you arrive, that feeling won't last long! The whole Kaitiaki o Ara/SADD team will be there along with some key supporters from organisations such as NZ Police, Fire and Emergency NZ and other local road safety agencies.

Do I need to know lots about SADD before I come?

Nope! All we ask is that you come along with an open mind and a desire to learn and take action. Conference is suitable for anyone from students completely new to SADD through to students who have been involved for several years.

Do I need to take notes?

Bring a pad and pen as we encourage you to jot down ideas, stats, doodles, instagram names of your new friends, things you learn and other notes. We will share the key info woth you after the event too so don't worry about missing anything.

What if I am sick on the day?

If you don't think you can make it for any reason please contact our team as soon as possible to let us know. We will be calling you and your parents to find out where you are if you don't turn up on the day so it's easier if we know in advance if you cannot be there anymore.

Can I leave to go to work or sports practice and then come back?

We require everyone to stay onsite and attend all sessions. There is a large element of teamwork involved in the agenda so if you leave you could disadvantage your team by not being there for the whole event. We ask that you please arrange time off work and other commitments so that you can give SADD conference your time and attention - you won't regret it, we promise!

What do I need to bring?

Clothes, toiletries, maybe a sleeping bag, a cool costume for the social event and thats about it! You will receive a full info pack when you register that gives more detail.

Is there funding available to help with the registration cost?

There is limited fundng available in some communities. Contact our team if you would like to know about what is available in your area. We also encourage you to talk to your school to see if they may be able to provide some funding.

Can I bring my dog?

Little mate needs to stay home this time sorry. Bring a cute picture though, our team loves dogs! *If your dog is a service dog thats a different story - let us know if this is the case :)

Do I need to be at school this year to be allowed to come?

Conference is designed for secondary school aged students. However if you have been engaged with the SADD programme before and have recently left school, we may still be able to have you join us in some capacity Get in touch with our team to chat through how you can still be involved in the programme in your community.