Introducing Masterclasses at NZGDC 2026
Call for Masterclass Applications - NZGDC 2026
NZGDC 2026 is now inviting applications for one of the most impactful parts of the conference: our Masterclass programme.
Masterclasses are not talks with extra time. They are premium, extended-format learning experiences built for depth, clarity, and real-world impact. Running for 2 or 3 hours, these sessions are designed for attendees who want to move beyond inspiration and into genuine capability building.
This is where expertise meets application.
What Makes a Masterclass Different?
Unlike standard conference talks, Masterclasses are intentionally focused, highly specific, and outcome-driven. They are structured to help participants not just understand an idea, but use it.
Attendees should walk away with something tangible: a new workflow they can implement, a framework they can apply, or a skill they can immediately put into practice within their projects or teams.
Think less presentation, more professional training.
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking experienced practitioners and industry leaders who can deliver deep, expert-led sessions that go beyond surface-level insights. Strong Masterclass proposals will:
Dive into a clearly defined, advanced topic with meaningful depth
Articulate clear, structured learning outcomes
Incorporate practical exercises, guided activities, or interactive elements
Break down real-world case studies, pipelines, or production scenarios
Provide reusable tools - templates, workflows, checklists, or frameworks
Prioritise substance, clarity, and applicability over broad theory
The best sessions are those where attendees are actively engaged - thinking, applying, and building understanding as they go.
Designing for Impact
A great Masterclass is carefully designed. It has a clear arc, a strong sense of progression, and a focus on what participants will leave with, not just what they will hear.
We encourage you to think about:
What specific capability will attendees gain?
What problems will they be better equipped to solve?
How will they apply what they’ve learned the very next day?
Whether you’re unpacking a production pipeline, teaching a specialised design method, exploring advanced technical systems, or breaking down a successful project, your session should translate expertise into actionable knowledge.
Who Should Apply?
If you have deep experience in your field and a passion for teaching others in a structured, practical way, we want to hear from you.
This is an opportunity to:
Share your expertise with a highly engaged audience
Shape the professional growth of developers across Aotearoa and beyond
Contribute to raising the bar for industry knowledge-sharing
The Goal
NZGDC Masterclasses are designed to deliver real value. Attendees invest their time expecting more than ideas - they expect capability.
Your role is to meet them there.
If you can offer a session that equips people with tools they’ll continue using long after the conference ends, we encourage you to apply.
Submit your Masterclass proposal for NZGDC 2026 and help define what meaningful learning looks like in our industry.