In what is a first for the TED conferences, New Zealand’s own TEDx event will be streamed live in partnership with TVNZ 7 on Sunday 26 September, from 10am, with highlights of the event broadcast on TVNZ 7 at a later date.

In what is a first for the TED conferences, New Zealand’s own TEDx event will be streamed live in partnership with TVNZ 7 on Sunday 26 September, from 10am, with highlights of the event broadcast on TVNZ 7 at a later date.

Devoted to ideas worth spreading, the annual TED conferences have a global following, and this month Auckland will host its own TEDx event (x stands for independently run).

The collaboration between Richard Hollingum, owner of the rights to host TEDx in New Zealand, and TVNZ 7, the inspirational and innovative ideas presented at this gathering, will be shared over the internet in real time at www.tvnz.co.nz/tvnz7. Simply click on the TEDx link on the TVNZ 7 home page for more details.

Previously TED has prevented live streaming of its renowned talks due to its status as a not-for-profit and its philosophy to promote ideas as opposed to commerce. This world-first arrangement has been struck due to the non-commercial nature of TVNZ 7.

Hollingum, the Director of Doing from the Department of Doing, is a firm believer that an idea is not any idea until it's done.

"This year's TEDxAuckland talks are focused on two very powerful words - 'What If?'"

He explains, "Gathering to be inspired by great ideas is one thing, but where it really starts to get interesting, and exciting, is when we can start to put those ideas into action and begin to see real change and progress."

TVNZ 7's Channel Manager Philippa Mossman sees a natural fit.

"TVNZ 7 is about different perspectives and sharing ideas, about informing and inspiring. We are thrilled to be able to bring TEDx Auckland to our viewers, both through the live streaming of the actual event and through the programmes," says Mossman.

In keeping with the TED format, the day will bring together people from three worlds; Technology, Entertainment, and Design, featuring 15 talks, performances and other multimedia surprises from fascinating thinkers and doers, each lasting no longer than 18 minutes. Richard and his team have been dedicated to putting together an unrivalled spectrum of speakers for the day, which promises to deliver a rich and memorable experience.