It was a busy and memorable few days in Auckland as school leaders from around the world came together for the International Confederation of Principals’ Convention 2026 (ICP 2026).
We were proud to be part of the event, with Christchurch Regional Manager Yasa Panagoda, General Manager Sam Lewis, GM of Sales & Growth Kyle Cooke, and South Auckland Regional Managers Viky and Nilly Narayan representing CrestClean.
The team enjoyed connecting with principals from New Zealand and overseas, while also catching up with familiar faces from the New Zealand Principals’ Federation (NZPF), which CrestClean has proudly supported as a Gold Business Partner since 2014.
It was the first time the ICP Convention has been held in New Zealand, with NZPF hosting what was a major international gathering of school leaders. Delegates came from different countries and different education systems but shared a common purpose – to strengthen school leadership.
It was also a great opportunity for visitors to experience New Zealand’s unique culture. The convention opened with a welcoming pōwhiri led by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, followed by cultural performances from local Auckland schools.
Viky says it was a genuinely energising event for everyone involved.
“Every conversation felt collaborative, and you could feel how valuable it was for leaders to have space to connect with peers who truly understand the pressures and opportunities in education.”
The team were also pleased to hear so much positive feedback from delegates, who commented on the professionalism of our cleaning teams and the practical advice they received from Regional Managers. Many also appreciated the reassurance that comes from working with a company that understands the operational realities schools face.
“It was great to see principals engaging so positively — not just with us, but with each other — and recognising the role CrestClean plays in helping schools maintain high standards,” says Viky.
As always, CrestClean pulled out all the stops, with our displays catching plenty of attention and a steady flow of delegates stopping by the stand throughout the convention.
A prize draw for a generous gift hamper was another popular feature, attracting plenty of entries from delegates. Congratulations to Riverhead School Principal Kris Hughes, who was the lucky winner.
Shane Buckner (NZPF Business Partner) helps Viky draw the winning entry.
It was a special few days for the CrestClean team and a great opportunity to be part of an event that brought together school leaders from so many different countries.
“Events like this are incredibly beneficial for principals because they create a rare moment away from the day‑to‑day demands of running a school,” says Viky.
We’re grateful to the NZPF for hosting such a memorable convention and to everyone who took the time to visit the CrestClean stand and have a chat with the team.