The Gathering 2026

WHAT IS THE GATHERING?

The Gathering is a powerful two and a half day event bringing people together from across New Zealand for connection, encouragement, and encounter with God. Kicking off Thursday night and running through Friday and Saturday (16 to 18 July 2026), you'll experience dynamic sessions designed for adults, kids, and intermediates, creating space for every age to be inspired and engaged. Whether you're coming as an individual, family, or group, there's something for everyone.

We're excited to welcome special guest speakers Jemima Varughese and Dustan Bell, bringing impactful messages that stir faith, challenge perspectives, and ignite purpose.

Jemima Varughese is a passionate leader and creative communicator, serving on the global leadership team at Kingdomcity alongside her husband, Pastor Mark Varughese. She carries a heart for bringing the reality of God to people across cultures, championing the next generation, and empowering others to step into their God given purpose.

Dustan Bell, Senior Pastor of Calvary Christian Church, has led and pioneered churches in Australia and South Africa. Passionate about discipleship and empowering others, he equips people to live with bold faith and impact their communities.

This isn't just a conference. It's a gathering of God's people pressing forward together. Come expectant. Come ready. Come be part of The Gathering 2026.

WHAT'S IN THE APP

Full programme: browse the complete schedule across all three days, including main auditorium sessions, the kids programme, and the intermediates stream. Know what's on, when it's on, and where to be.

About The Gathering: event overview, guest speaker bios and backgrounds, and a full picture of what to expect across the weekend.

More information: all the practical details you need to plan your trip and make the most of your time in Wellington.

Accommodation discounts at partner hotels near the venue. Family activities in Petone, Lower Hutt, Wellington city, and the wider region. Transport options: driving directions, parking information, train timetables, and bus routes to ARISE Centre Petone. Wristband collection: where and when to pick up your wristband and info pack before the event begins. Meal deals: exclusive discounts at local Petone cafés and restaurants for wristband holders. Just show your wristband at the counter to redeem.

Kids and Legacy: dedicated information for families attending with children, plus details on Legacy Lunch registration for those wanting to invest in the next generation.

Register: a quick, direct link to secure your place at The Gathering if you haven't already. Don't miss out.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Getting to the ARISE Centre in Petone is straightforward whether you're driving, catching the train, or hopping on a bus from Wellington city. The app includes detailed parking information, public transport links, and a curated list of suggested family activities for time spent exploring the Wellington region before or after sessions.

Registered attendees can collect their wristbands ahead of the event at their home campus Welcome stand. Check with your campus team for dates and times.

Wristbands are also available for collection at the ARISE Centre from Thursday 16 July. Please note: wristbands are required for entry to all Gathering sessions, so make sure you know when and where to pick yours up.

WHO IS THIS APP FOR?

This app is built for everyone attending The Gathering 2026: adults coming solo, couples, families with young children, youth leaders bringing their intermediate groups, volunteers serving across the weekend, and anyone helping coordinate their campus crew. Whether this is your first Gathering or your tenth, the app is your go to guide from the moment you arrive to the moment you head home.

Everything in one place. No scrambling for information. No missed sessions. Just you, your people, and everything God has for you this weekend.

THE GATHERING 2026