Ōtautahi Christchurch to host global VR symposium next year

Christchurch, New Zealand will host the 29th ACM Virtual Reality Software and Technology (VRST) symposium in October 2023. Over 300 delegates are expected for the three-day programme at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre. The interdisciplinary conference will include Virtual Reality (VR) and Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), engineering, science, design, psychology, education, medicine and gaming experts. ChristchurchNZ head of Business Events, Megan Crum, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming international VR software and technology experts to our smart city. They will find a vibrant innovation ecosystem and a wealth of talent and knowledge to share in this beautiful South Island location.” Ōtautahi Christchurch, home to the University of Canterbury HIT Lab NZ, celebrated 20 years as a world leader in mixed-reality research and development this year. Professor Lindeman of the University explained that the conference will allow the Christchurch VRST community to host global experts; create a valuable platform for discussion and connection; and will be an opportunity to showcase their thought leadership globally. “The HIT Lab NZ focuses on helping support people in carrying out their work and leisure tasks. New Zealand companies and organisations regularly come to us, asking how immersive technologies can help them in providing solutions to real problems,” Lindeman added. “We look forward to sharing knowledge and networking with the international community, who was quick to jump at the chance to come to Christchurch next year.” Tourism New Zealand general manager New Zealand and Business Events, Bjoern Spreitzer, said: “This is a great win for New Zealand, bringing high-quality visitors to our shores who will explore Aotearoa and share their expertise and build networks with our local specialists in the growing VR field.”