This year’s scientific programme was themed Aspirations into Action, an aspirational and wide-ranging programme which not only provided the usual AQUA update sessions, but was intended to challenge you to ensure your practice is the best it can be. We hope you found the sessions provided both valuable learning, and inspiration, and that you thoroughly enjoyed the combined ASM + AQUA, the networking with friends and colleagues, and the social activities on offer.

We were delighted to welcome an exceptional array of local and international speakers to the 2019 ASM + AQUA – and would like to extend our sincere gratitude in particular to Professor Mary Dixon-Woods, a true champion of quality improvement from Cambridge; Professor Ed Mariano from Stanford, a world leader in regional anaesthesia, as well as being at the forefront of anaesthesia on social media; Professor Andy Klein from Papworth, the Editor-in Chief of Anaesthesia and a top quality and engaging speaker;  Professor Bruce Spiess, a dynamic speaker and champion of Blood Management Systems; Professor Simon Mitchell from Auckland, a NZ legend in research and the demanding world of technical dive medicine; and local legend, Professor Alan Merry, who  provided an inspiring and aspirational opening address to set the tone for the conference.

We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to our entire panel of guest speakers, highly regarded local specialists, chairpersons, trade industry partners, workshop facilitators and the many volunteers required to make the 2019 NZ ASM + AQUA such a success. Thank you all for your contribution!

Dr Kerry Holmes, Convenor

Organising Committee
Dr Olivia Albert, Dr Tom Fernandez, Dr Kerry Gunn, Dr Neil MacLennan