SYMPOSIUM

2027 ŌTAUTAHI HOOK SUSPENSION

Immersive Environments is proud to present the 2027 Ōtautahi Hook Suspension Symposium.

Celebrating 20 years OF SUSPENSION, we invite you to join us over 4 days for this unique educational event, held in Christchurch, New Zealand.

event information

  • Monday 18th – Friday 22nd January, 2027

    1. This is a strictly drug and alcohol free event.

    2. Attendance is restricted to individuals 18 years of age and older.

    3. If you wish to arrange a unique or complex suspension that may require multiple practitioners, please contact us prior to registration to confirm feasibility.

    4. A digital participant pack must be completed before engaging in any suspension and needs to be completed prior to the event.

    5. In New Zealand, despite the temperature not being very high, it is an arid heat and we are infamous for our thin ozone layer. This means that even when overcast, you can get sunburnt easily. Sunscreen is strongly advised when outside and will be available if needed.

      January temperatures range from around 20°C - 28°C (68°F - 83°F) and humidity is generally quite low.

    6. We strongly encourage attendees to bring their own music and headphones for their suspension, as this can enhance the overall experience and contribute to a more enjoyable and personal atmosphere.

    7. We recommend that you bring a spare set of clothing. In some cases, excessive bleeding or bleeding through bandages may occur, and having additional clothing available might be necessary to ensure compliance with our protocols and the safety of other participants.

      We will also provide spare sterile bandages for redressing your wounds on the day following your suspension.

  • A detailed event schedule can be found here.

  • We are excited to be hosted again by The Kind Foundation in the Black Box Theatre at Papa Hou in the heart of Christchurch.

    The Theatre is set up to be a fully functional and flexible black box, which is adaptable to our specific requirements.

  • We will be hosting a number of presentations on Monday the 18th of January from 9am in the Rapou room at Papa Hou.

    As presentations are confirmed, they can be found on the event schedule.

    • Points 1-3: indoor dynamic points featuring 5:1 counterweight systems

    • Point 4: indoor dynamic point with a 6:1 haul system

    • 1 × 2m static cube

  • To manage expectations, we have a suspension request form that all suspending attendees are required to fill out. This will help us build a tentative timetable for the event.

    Please note that while we'll do our best to accommodate all requests even if they change, failure to complete the form on time or be present and ready during your allotted time slot may result in us being unable to facilitate your suspension during the event.

  • Right beside the Black Box Theatre is Hotel Give, our event accommodation. There are many affordable room options from shared dormitories, to apartments with ensuites.

    Attendees will be given a 10% off discount code with your registration.

    We encourage you to book your as soon as possible as there are a number of large events happening in Christchurch around this time.

  • This is not included. There is a cafe on site which we recommend our attendees support - a 10% discount on food and drink will be offered to all attendees with the presentation of your symposium badge.

    There are many food and drink options within walking distance of the venue.

    There is also a bistro and bar (for after hours) on site at Hotel Give.

  • Hooks and shackles for most suspensions will be provided. Please note that all provided hooks have been previously used and professionally re-processed and sterilized by Sterile Services at Forté Health.

  • We’re looking to create a supportive environment where newer participants can connect with those who have more experience, so this event will have Experienced Community Members (ECMs). While there is no formal role or responsibility attached, their presence and willingness to share their knowledge in an informal and organic way will be greatly appreciated.

    This is not a staff, volunteer, or official mentoring position. Rather, it is an opportunity to participate, engage, and, where appropriate, offer insights as they feel comfortable.

  • Immersive Environments is a PCBU (person conducting a business or undertaking).

    We are bound by strict adherence to our Health & Safety documentation to comply with the HSWA 2015 (Health & Safety at Work Act).

    Help us help you by behaving responsibly.

    A document package is available to all attendees for the event. This includes detailed protocols, health & safety guidelines, and relevant policies.

    Please ensure you read all documents thoroughly before attending.

  • REGISTRATION OPENS JUNE 1ST

    June 1st - July 31st:
    Introductory Registration is 

    $800 NZD ( $700 AUD / $475 USD / €400 )

    August 1st - October 31st:
    Registration is 

    $850 NZD ( $740 AUD / $495 USD / €420 )

    November 1st:
    REGISTRATION CLOSES

    This fee includes:

    • Full event access

    • 1 confirmed suspension (a second basic suspension may be possible as time permits)

    • Event T-shirt

    • Gift Bag

    • Entry to the closing installation

    Once you register, an invoice will be issued. A 50% non-refundable part-payment is due immediately upon receipt of the invoice.

    You will be added to the official attendee Facebook group only after this deposit has been received.

  • Sunday, 1st November 2026 - Early payment is appreciated.

    If you need to cancel your registration after full payment has been made, please notify us by November 1st to be eligible for a partial refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations received after November 1st, or for non-attendance without prior notice.

    Your registration serves as a contractual agreement for services.

  • If you would like to learn more about sponsorship opportunities for our event, please email us.

    We also invite you to support our 2027 sponsors; a complete list is available here.

  • Registration includes ONE event T-shirt.

    If you’d like to order additional T-shirts or add a hoodie to your order, you can do so here.

THINGS TO DO

  • A revitalized city in the heart of Aotearoa New Zealand’s South Island.

    This is a city in perfect balance; home to a diverse natural playground, wide open spaces, modern architecture and heritage buildings.

    christchurch.co.nz

  • Relax. Play. Indulge. Unwind.

    Soak in our thermal water or indulge at The Spa. There’s something for everyone. Just 90 minutes’ drive north of Christchurch in the beautiful Hurunui region.

    hanmersprings.co.nz

  • Nestled amidst New Zealand's spectacular alpine landscapes, Queenstown offers more than just a getaway.

    queenstown.co.nz

  • The West Coast, or 'the Coast' as locals call it, is an untamed natural wilderness of rivers and rainforests, glaciers and geological treasures.

    westcoast.co.nz