Physics Teachers’ Day Christchurch: 2026 NZIP & NEX Programme at Wigram

If you teach senior or junior physics in Waitaha Canterbury, the upcoming Physics Teachers’ Day Christchurch on Friday, 20 November 2026 is a fully funded professional learning day you will not want to miss. Hosted by the New Zealand Institute of Physics (NZIP) and Networks of Expertise (NEX) at the Air Force Museum of New Zealand in Wigram, this full-day gathering brings kaiako together to unpack the new Years 12 and 13 Physics curriculum, test hands-on classroom activities, and connect with colleagues before the end of the school year.

What to Expect at Physics Teachers’ Day Christchurch

Because the programme is 100% funded by NZIP and NEX (including morning tea and lunch), all you need to arrange is day release time through your kura. The schedule balances big-picture curriculum updates with practical workshops, museum insights, and junior science links.   

Event Details

• Date & Time: Friday, 20 November 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (followed by an informal after-match function)   

• Location: Air Force Museum of New Zealand, Wigram, Ōtautahi Christchurch   

• Host / Organiser: New Zealand Institute of Physics (NZIP) and Networks of Expertise (NEX)   

• Cost: Fully funded by NZIP/NEX (schools only need to provide release time)   
  

Full Day Programme

• 9:00 AM – 9:15 AM: Welcome and Introduction.   

• 9:15 AM – 10:15 AM: The New Physics Curriculum for Year 12 and 13 (Overview) — Where are we at, what are our next steps, and what are the priorities for PLD and resources next year?   

• 10:15 AM – 10:45 AM: Morning tea and catch-up.   

• 10:45 AM – 12:15 PM (Concurrent Sessions):

  • Option A — Air Force Museum Insights: Exploring the physics of flight and CubeSat technology.   

  • Option B — Workshop on New Physics Curriculum Content: Hands-on look at thermal properties and heat transfer mechanisms, ideal gases, and resistivity.   

• 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM: Lunch (provided) and informal discussions.   

• 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM (Concurrent Sessions):

  • Option A — Making and Launching Rockets: Practical rocket-building session with Miranda.   

  • Option B — Junior Curriculum & Equipment: Exploring toys and unknown gear from the storeroom; House of Science kits (Electric Future / Anamata Hiko, Up, Up & Away / Whakarewa Ake, Ki Runga Rawa, and Things with Wings / Ngā Mea Whai Parirau); and links to the Year 9 and 10 curriculum.   

• 2:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Backstage tour of the Air Force Museum.   

• 3:00 PM onwards: After-match function at the Wigram Hotel.   
  

How to Register

To secure your spot, complete the official NZIP/NEX Google Registration Form. When you RSVP, remember to select whether you would like to join the rocket workshop and backstage tour, and note any dietary requirements for catering.