Auckland's Cordis hotel will play host to some of New Zealand's most accomplished women this October, as the Women to Watch 2026 event celebrates its 14th year alongside two significant publishing milestones.
The event, held in association with Craigs Investment Partners, will recognise seven outstanding women from across different industries as the Women to Watch Class of 2026.
Two Milestones in One Celebration
This year's event carries extra significance, marking 30 years of EYE Magazine and 10 years of its Chinese-language counterpart, Chinese EYE Magazine, together representing three decades of storytelling focused on notable people, businesses and communities across New Zealand.
EYE Magazine Publisher Vanessa Bennett described Women to Watch as a natural extension of the magazine's original purpose.
"Thirty years ago, EYE Magazine was created to celebrate people doing extraordinary things," Bennett said. "Women to Watch has become an extension of that vision, recognising women who are creating positive change, building businesses, leading organisations and making a real difference in their communities."
Seven Women, One Stage
The heart of the event remains its Class of 2026 honourees, seven women from diverse industries who will each share their personal stories of resilience, innovation and success in front of an audience of 300 business leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals.
A New Naming Partner Joins the Event
This year introduces a notable new partnership, with Regent Seven Seas Cruises stepping in as the event's Naming Partner, aligning the ultra-luxury cruise line with Women to Watch's focus on achievement and leadership.
Lisa Pile, Managing Director of Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises for Asia Pacific, will join the celebration virtually to speak on the importance of recognising women shaping industries and inspiring future generations.
"At Regent Seven Seas Cruises, we know that extraordinary journeys begin with extraordinary people," Pile said, describing the partnership as a natural fit given Regent's own long-standing focus on connection and exceptional experiences.
Bennett welcomed the new partnership warmly as well.
"We're incredibly proud to welcome Regent Seven Seas Cruises as our Naming Partner," she said. "Regent is synonymous with excellence and delivering exceptional experiences at the highest level, making them a perfect fit for the Women to Watch audience."
A Long-Standing Financial Sponsor
Craigs Investment Partners, one of New Zealand's largest investment and advisory firms, returns as a sponsor for another year, continuing a relationship that stretches back nearly two decades.
Investment Adviser Sandra Quemba, who will both sponsor and speak at this year's event, framed the ongoing partnership as part of a broader commitment to financial literacy among women.
"We have been strong supporters of Kiwi women on their investment journeys for over 20 years, helping them build the confidence and knowledge to make informed financial decisions," Quemba said.
The firm is also approaching its own milestone, the 20-year anniversary of its Craigs Women's Wealth initiative in 2027.
What Guests Can Expect on the Day
The event follows a structured, elegant format designed around connection, celebration and a touch of luxury. Guests arrive from 10.30am for a champagne reception and access to a curated selection of luxury pop-up stores spanning fashion, beauty, wellness and lifestyle brands.
The afternoon programme includes:
- An opening performance by vocalist Serene Bouton
- Interviews with the Women to Watch Class of 2026
- A couture runway presentation by Jaiss Bespoke Fashion
- A three-course lunch paired with Brown Brothers Wines
- A luxury charity auction supporting the New Zealand Heart Foundation
- A custom Italian tiramisu celebration cake created by Mirella Kostandini of Arte della Pasta
- Luxury spot prizes and gift bags valued at more than $750 per guest
Giving Back Alongside the Celebration
Beyond celebrating individual achievement, the event also has a philanthropic component built in. Funds raised through the charity auction will go directly to the New Zealand Heart Foundation, supporting research, education and programmes focused on improving heart health across the country.
A Genuinely Limited Event
With only 300 seats available, Women to Watch continues to position itself as one of New Zealand's most sought-after annual gatherings for women in business and leadership, an event built as much around networking and mutual support as it is around formal recognition.
Event Details
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Event |
Regent Seven Seas Cruises Women to Watch 2026 |
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Date |
Friday, 2 October 2026 |
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Venue |
Cordis Auckland |
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Schedule |
10.30am Champagne Reception and Pop-Up Shopping; 12.00pm Luncheon, Speeches, Fashion Show, Charity Auction |
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Tickets |
$265 + GST |
This article is based on a media release issued by Panic PR on behalf of Regent Seven Seas Cruises and EYE Magazine.
