16th July 2026 8.00am to 10.00am at The Novotel
This presentation by Samantha Turner (Barrister, Stout Street Chambers) focuses on two key topics:
- The High Court Gibson decision involving the former Ports of Auckland CEO.
- The 2026 amendments to the Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA) and what they mean for businesses and directors.
The Gibson decision confirms that directors and senior leaders must do more than rely on health and safety systems being in place. They must actively verify that critical safety controls are working in practice and understand how work is actually carried out (“work as done”), not just how it is intended to be done
The reforms create a two-tier system:
- Small PCBUs (fewer than 20 workers) have reduced obligations, with duties focused mainly on critical risks.
- Large PCBUs (20 or more workers) retain their existing duties but must clearly prioritise critical risks and provide stronger governance oversight.







































