Your Ultimate Guide to SADD Conference 2025
If you follow us on any platform or have attended any of our recent events, you have probably heard about our annual conferences that are coming up in April! Maybe you’ve even considered coming along but have a few questions? No worries—we’ve got you covered! This conference is set to be an epic experience, bringing together young leaders who are passionate about road safety and positive change. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a SADD expert, this FAQ blog has everything you need to know to get excited and get involved!
So what is SADD Conference?
SADD Conference is an annual gathering of young leaders passionate about road safety and youth voice. It’s a chance to learn, connect, and take action to make our roads safer. Think of it like a leadership camp! This year is extra special as we celebrate 40 years of SADD while looking ahead to the future.
Who can attend the conference?
Any high school student who wants to make a difference in road safety! We accept registrations from students in year 9 through to year 13. You don’t need to already be part of a SADD group—if you’re keen to get involved and learn, this is for you.
Do I need experience in road safety to attend?
Nope! Not at all. Whether you’re brand new to the movement or a seasoned SADD leader, there’s something for everyone. The workshops and activities cater to all levels of experience and while there is a road safety element to what we do, we don’t expect you to memorise the road rules before coming along.
What will I gain from attending?
You’ll leave with leadership skills, boosted confidence, and practical tools to make an impact in your community. Plus, you’ll meet awesome people, take part in interactive sessions that help shape the future of road safety, and have lots of fun while doing it!
What kind of activities can I expect?
Expect a mix of workshops, fun challenges, hands-on activities, and interactive presentations. You’ll also get to network with other students, hear from road safety experts, and participate in group projects that bring your ideas to life. You will get a chance to be creative, practice your problem solving skills and learn from others around you. There’s also a social event on the agenda (complete with themed dress up!)
Where and when is the conference happening?
We have 2 events this year, one in the South Island and one in the North Island. Both events are in the school holidays.
📅 Date: 13th to 15th April
📍 Location: St Andrews College in Christchurch
📅 Date: 22nd to 24th April
📍 Location: St Peter’s Cambridge
How do I register?
Registrations are open now, so have a chat to your whanau and secure your spot today. Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out!
Register here: www.sadd.org.nz/conference
How much does it cost to attend?
Registration is $185 for the whole event. This covers accommodation, food and all your activities. In many regions we have support available to help with this cost and we also have a sponsorship fund that anyone can apply to for support with the registration fee or your travel costs. For more information on sponsorship check out www.sadd.org.nz/sponsorship
What do I need to bring?
Once you register we send you an info pack that includes a list, but the main things are comfortable clothes, an open mind, and a willingness to participate!
What’s the deal with food?
We cater all meals from the time you arrive to the time you leave. Our venues are both boarding schools, so we are lucky to have access to dining halls where they are experts in feeding teenagers! We can cater to any dietary requirements too - just make sure you let us know when you register what your needs are.
How do I get there?
There are lots of transport options to get you to the venue including the intercity bus, flights (if you’re coming from further away) or driving/carpooling. Talk to your Delivery Lead if you’re unsure, you can also apply to our sponsorship fund if you need support for travel costs.
Can I just come for some of the sessions?
Conference is designed as a whole experience from start to finish so it’s not something that you can come and go from. We do ask that you commit to the entire event and stay on site the entire time. It’s both for your enjoyment and for health and safety reasons! If you have particular circumstances that will make this difficult for you then please have a chat to one of our team before registering so we can sort out a plan.
What if I don’t know anyone else going?
No worries! The SADD Conference is all about meeting new people, making connections, and becoming part of a movement. You’ll quickly find your crew!
How can I stay updated?
Follow @SADDNZ on social media and check our website for announcements, registration reminders, and event updates! If you have any additional questions then flick us an email at team@sadd.org.nz
🚀 Don’t miss your chance to Fuel Your Future and be part of something big. Get keen, get involved, and get ready for SADD Conference 2025!
