NZ | Mastering the Future | Productivity, Technology and Industry Update
Christchurch, NZ
25 June 2025
12:30 pm - 3:30 pm NZST
Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, 188 Oxford Terrace,
Christchurch, NZ
3 hrs
Esmae McKenzie-Norton
Steve Knutson
Zahn Nel
Rhys Kerrigan
David Carter
Topic | Leadership, Strategy & Innovation, Technology & Knowledge | |
Type | Seminar | |
CPD | 2 - New Zealand CPD |
Pricing | Free |
Full Member | Free |
Online Member | Free |
Affiliate | Free |
Associate Member | Free |
Non-members must be eligible for alpma membership to attend.
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Presented by
Esmae McKenzie-Norton, Glia Workplace Psychology
Steve Knutson, Stratos Technology Partners
Zahn Nel, Actionstep
Rhys Kerrigan, Kinetics
David Carter, OneLaw
Join us for an exclusive afternoon designed for Law Firm Management professionals wanting to keep abreast of industry changes. This event brings you various panel discussions and presentations that will provide you with the latest insights and practical strategies to enhance your firm's operations.
Hear from our keynote speaker, Esmae McKenzie-Norton. The working world is showing an ever-increasing trend of change and complexity. Many changes present an opportunity for efficiency, equity, and innovation; however, the complexity and pace of change are contributing to people becoming overwhelmed, disconnected, and intolerant.
So how do we leverage the opportunities being presented without burning ourselves out? How do we keep our organisation thriving through change?
Esmae joins us to help us understand psychological safety; including how we achieve it for ourselves and support its application in our workplaces. She will provide some of the insights coming through the research on workplaces and provide practical approaches we can utilise for change in our organisations.
Essential panel discussions that are relevant to all law firms, regardless of size or specialty. This event will feature industry experts who will provide invaluable insights into the future of the legal industry and how firms can navigate the upcoming trends and transformations.
The Legal Landscape 2025/2026: Navigating Trends and Transformations
- Explore key trends impacting the legal industry now and over the next few years.
- Hear about the emerging challenges and opportunities facing law firms and how to position your firm for success.
- Hear from industry leaders about the impact of technological advancements, and evolving client expectations.
Leveraging AI & Automation for Efficiency and Client Experience in Law Firms
- Discover how artificial intelligence and automation are revolutionizing the legal sector, driving efficiency, and enhancing client experiences.
- Explore practical applications of AI and automation in law firms, from document review and legal research to client communication and case management.
- Explore the benefits and potential pitfalls of integrating these technologies into your practice and how to maximise their ROI/value.
Why Attend?
✅ Expert Insights: Hear from top industry experts who are at the forefront of legal innovation and transformation.
✅ Practical Takeaways: Gain actionable strategies and best practices to implement in your firm.
✅ Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, thought leaders, and potential partners to share experiences and ideas.
✅ Future-Proof Your Firm: Equip yourself with the knowledge and tools needed to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving legal landscape.
Presented by

Esmae McKenzie-Norton
Principal Psychologist at Glia Workplace Psychology
With a passion for community wellbeing, and supporting people to thrive in their workplace, Esmae is known for her no-fluff insights and practical tools. A strategic psychologist and seasoned advisor, Esmae’s work in health, government, and consultancy has involved leading complex projects and initiatives that have transformed systems for real-world impact. From developing survivor-centred recommendations at the Royal Commission of Inquiry to advising directors and governors in corporate and government agencies, her work combines psychological science with public policy expertise to create meaningful change across workplaces and communities.
Esmae’s role as a Principal Psychologist with Glia Workplace Psychology, involves leading psychosocial evaluations, coaching programs, and team interventions tailored to complex workplace needs. As a facilitator and speaker, she offers relevant and sustainable approaches to enable resilience and adaptability for leaders navigating complexity and changing environments.


Steve Knutson
Director | Digital Workplaces at Stratos Technology Partners
Kia ora, I am Steve Knutson from Aotearoa New Zealand. In 2011 I co-founded Stratos Technology Partners, a software development services & technology consulting firm. In the time since then we have grown from an idea to a mid-sized services company. In my client facing role I work as a Microsoft 365 Consultant, focused on SharePoint. I connect people with technology and helping them understand what is possible and how to make it happen. I have experience in a wide range of projects including Intranets, information management, cloud migrations and transformation projects. I enjoy creating opportunities for people to learn and develop their careers. I was fortunate to have a great mentor early in my career who encouraged me to pass it on. My community activities include user groups, blogging, YouTube and speaking on topics related to SharePoint, Digital Workplaces, and Intranets.


Zahn Nel
Regional Vice President of Sales, Australia and New Zealand at Actionstep
Zahn Nel is a seasoned professional in the legal technology space. With over 15 years of dedicated experience in legal technology, Zahn has become a trusted expert in providing true cloud-based technology solutions and innovation to law firms.


Rhys Kerrigan
Consultant at Kinetics
Rhys is our lead consultant in Auckland with over 22 years’ experience in the IT industry in both large and small businesses as well as New Zealand and international companies. Rhys has acted as an external IT service provider as well as in multiple in-house roles. With his extensive experience designing, managing and implementing solutions along with the requisite communication to management and third party stake holders, Rhys’ provides solutions that work practically in the real world – not just on paper.


David Carter
CEO at OneLaw
David joined OneLaw as a major investor and CEO in 2024 after getting to know the OneLaw team as CEO of our development partner, Stratos Technology Partners. He divides his time between both OneLaw and Stratos, and enjoys being part of the growth of two great NZ companies. With over 20 years’ experience in growing software companies, David has a range of specialised skills and insights which he is applying to the role. He brings fresh leadership to OneLaw and is focused on helping us grow to be the #1 choice for NZ law firms.