Inside AMINZ Expert Skills Intensive: Fast Five with Steve Alexander

We are delighted to announce the AMINZ Expert Skills Intensive (AESI) as our newest training offering. AESI is a two-day course designed to equip professionals who serve as expert witnesses with the knowledge and practical skills to deliver evidence effectively in courts, tribunals, and alternative dispute resolution. We speak with AMINZ Council Member, Fellow, and Expert Determiner, Steve Alexander, who has curated the course to find out more about how AESI came about, who should attend, what sets AESI apart from other expert training, and more.  

Kia ora Steve, thank you for speaking with us. First, how did the idea for the AMINZ Expert Skills Intensive develop?   

The idea grew from a recognition that expert evidence plays a crucial role in our legal system. While concerns about the quality of expert evidence have existed for centuries, the rapid growth of construction litigation has particularly drawn attention to the importance of high-quality expert evidence. This course has been designed to provide knowledge and practical skills for professionals across all sectors. The course content has the depth required to equip participants with stronger communication skills and tools for effective evidence delivery.   

Who should attend the two-day course?  

It’s for anyone who wants to learn the key skills needed to present expert evidence effectively including professionals who already provide expert evidence and want to deepen their knowledge, understanding and confidence.  The course is also valuable for lawyers seeking specialist insight into appointing and working effectively with experts.  

What skills or expertise do participants need before attending?   

There is no pre-requisite to attending. The course begins with an online “101” module covering the fundamentals of dispute resolution, ensuring all participants start with a solid foundation. Whether you are new to expert work or an experienced practitioner, you will gain valuable knowledge, enhance your communication skills and build confidence in presenting evidence effectively.   

What sets AESI apart from other expert training courses and what can attendees expect?   

Many short seminars and webinars on expert evidence have focused only on the fundamental rule that an expert’s duty is to the court, but that level of course is insufficient to equip experts with the required knowledge and understanding. This intensive two-day, in-person course provides hands-on, in-depth training that has not previously been available in New Zealand. Participants will learn directly from experienced judges, barristers, and experts, gaining practical insights, real-world examples and techniques to present evidence with clarity, confidence and authority.  

What are you most looking forward to?     

I am looking forward to helping deliver a first-of-its-kind event in New Zealand and to hearing the knowledge and wisdom that our ten expert presenters will share. Bringing this course to life has taken five years of planning, and I am looking forward to this becoming a landmark annual event that sets a new standard for expert evidence. 

Learn more about AESI, see the presenters and register here to join us Wednesday 18 and Thursday 19 February 2026 in Auckland.