The residential development market is entering a defining decade. Economic conditions are shifting, capital is tightening, construction pipelines are evolving, and buyer expectations continue to change. In this environment, success will depend not just on responding to the present, but on anticipating what comes next.
At the Residential Development Summit 2026, one of the most forward-looking conversations will take place in the panel session “Future-proofing the Market: Insights for a Thriving Decade Ahead.” Bringing together voices from real estate, construction and banking, this session will explore how the residential market can adapt, remain resilient, and unlock opportunity over the years ahead.
A rare mix of market perspectives
Too often, industry conversations happen in silos. This panel breaks that pattern by bringing together a unique combination of perspectives across the residential value chain:
This panel will explore how regional and national infrastructure decisions interact with development outcomes, and what it will take to better align public and private investment to support thriving, resilient communities.
- Dan Bosher, Director – New Zealand, Icon Co, offering contractor and construction insights rarely heard at the strategic table
- Kelly Galbraith, General Manager – Properties, BNZ, sharing the banking and capital lens shaping development feasibility and investment decisions
- Mark Macky, Chief Executive Officer, Bayleys Real Estate Group, providing real-time market intelligence from the sales and demand front line
Together, these perspectives will create a more complete picture of where the market is heading and what developers need to be thinking about now.
What’s shaping the next decade?
The panel will explore the forces expected to define the residential market over the next ten years, from construction capacity and cost pressures to access to finance, investor confidence, and changing buyer behaviour. With insights grounded in day-to-day decision-making, the discussion will highlight emerging trends, market signals, and the realities developers are already navigating.
Importantly, the panel will also surface contractor views that are often missing from industry dialogue, shedding light on delivery risks, pipeline challenges, and the practical implications of market shifts.
Risks, gaps and opportunities
Future-proofing is not about avoiding risk — it’s about understanding it. This session will unpack where gaps exist across the system, what risks developers should be preparing for, and where opportunities may emerge for those willing to adapt early.
From funding models and procurement strategies to market timing and product mix, the conversation will offer practical insights to help participants think more strategically about their next moves.
Preparing for a thriving future
The Residential Development Summit 2026 is where industry leaders come together to look beyond the immediate cycle and shape what comes next. The “Future-proofing the Market” panel will challenge assumptions, test ideas, and equip attendees with insights they can take back into their businesses.
In a decade defined by change, understanding the full picture from capital to construction to consumer will be essential. This session offers a rare opportunity to do just that.
Tickets available now – register today.
Events
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Residential Development Summit 2026 – Pre-Summit tour
Book your tickets! Get an exclusive look at some of Auckland's most exciting residential developments. Explore innovative projects, meet the people behind them, and hear about new schemes set to be announced. The […]
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Residential Development Summit 2026
New Zealand International Convention Centre 101 Hobson Street, Auckland Central, Auckland, New ZealandBook your tickets! Registrations are open now!New Zealand’s premier residential development forum will return to Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland on Thursday 26 March 2026, as leaders from the residential development sector gather for […]
