When International No-Dig arrives in Auckland in October 2026, it will turn the spotlight toward the unseen networks beneath our cities and the people reshaping how they are built, maintained and renewed.
For Jason Marshall, Managing Director of Pipe Core, the event represents a defining moment for the trenchless technology sector across Australasia.
“International No-Dig is a platform where technology, experience and collaboration intersect,” Marshall said.
“It brings together manufacturers, contractors, utilities and engineers from around the world, driving the exchange of ideas that shape the future of underground infrastructure.”
He said the trenchless technology and No-Dig connection reflect a shared ambition.
“For Australia and New Zealand, it is a chance to showcase how our region continues to innovate and lead in applying global trenchless advancements to local challenges.”
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Why Pipe Core is stepping up
As a Platinum Sponsor of No-Dig 2026, Pipe Core will take an active role in shaping conversations and demonstrations.
“Our goal is to strengthen connections between international technology partners and the industry that relies on those solutions locally,” Marshall said.
Pipe Core’s Circle of Service model, which spans technology selection, training and ongoing support, has become a key component of its work across the region. Marshall said sponsorship reinforces that long-term commitment.
“Sponsorship is an investment in the future of our industry. By supporting events like No-Dig, we help bridge the gap between international technology leaders and local expertise, ensuring the latest innovations are accessible and successfully implemented in Australian and New Zealand conditions.”
Why Auckland matters
Auckland’s selection as host city is both symbolic and strategic. Marshall sees it as a reflection of New Zealand’s ambition and technical maturity.
“Auckland is a vibrant, fast-growing city that is deeply engaged in infrastructure renewal and environmental resilience,” he said. “It is a natural fit for a global event focused on sustainable water infrastructure asset management.”
He said Auckland also strengthens regional collaboration.
“The city provides a central meeting point for the Australasian and wider Asia-Pacific trenchless community, making it accessible, inspiring and globally relevant.”
The No-Dig 2026 program will highlight cross-Tasman differences that shape industry needs.
“New Zealand’s networks are overall younger than Australia’s and more geographically diverse,” Marshall said.
“This presents an opportunity for New Zealand to leverage international learnings and take advantage of industry best practice.”
He notes that recent water reforms have contributed to a challenging planning environment across the sector.
“There has been uncertainty around water infrastructure strategy, operation and delivery,” he said. “That has made it difficult for authorities managing assets and for the wider industry trying to anticipate future needs.”
Even so, Marshall said the focus remains consistent.
“The shared goal is asset performance, sustainability and minimal community disruption. Our role is to deliver tailored solutions that meet those needs on both sides of the Tasman.”
The sustainability connection
As urban growth accelerates and networks age, the environmental and social cost of excavation continues to rise. Marshall said trenchless methods offer a practical and responsible alternative.
“Trenchless technology is fundamental to achieving sustainability in modern infrastructure,” he said. “It allows renewal and repair without excavation, reducing waste, emissions and surface disruption while extending the life of existing assets.”
He said these benefits increasingly align with the sustainability metrics used by councils and utilities.
“Avoided carbon, reduced spoil, and less traffic disruption. These outcomes demonstrate the genuine environmental value of trenchless work.”
From the field to the floor
Pipe Core’s involvement in complex rehabilitation projects gives the company a real-world perspective.
“As a project partner, we work alongside customers on UV-cured CIPP, potable water renewals and large-diameter rehabilitation,” Marshall said. “We collaborate closely with our suppliers to help deliver consistent outcomes.”
He said those experiences will underpin Pipe Core’s presence in Auckland.
“We bring lessons in planning, quality assurance and technology integration that help our customers achieve better outcomes on site.”
Technology trends and innovation at No-Dig 2026
Marshall expects No-Dig 2026 to showcase a new generation of technologies.
“We expect to see continued momentum toward sustainability, decarbonisation, smarter digital systems and data-driven decision-making,” he said.
He pointed to fully electric cleaning and curing systems, improved composite materials and AI-assisted inspection tools as examples of the shift already underway.
“Sustainability will be the common thread linking these innovations,” he said.
The event’s collaborative platform also stands out.
“International No-Dig breaks down silos by giving everyone involved in the water sector a place to connect and learn from one another. It is a space for hands-on engagement, shared problem-solving and co-development of solutions.”
Collaboration and capability
Marshall said International No-Dig will offer significant value for utilities seeking modernisation pathways.
“By engaging directly with technology developers, project leaders and equipment specialists, utilities can explore proven case studies and assess new techniques first-hand,” he said.
“It is an opportunity to discuss practical implementation strategies tailored to their networks.”
He encouraged newcomers to approach the event openly.
“No-Dig is more than an exhibition. It is a global knowledge exchange. Whether you want to modernise operations, build partnerships or gain insight into sustainable trenchless techniques, there is no better opportunity.
“The future lies in sustainable innovation. Technologies that deliver stronger performance with lower environmental impact,” he said.
He added that capability building will remain central to Pipe Core’s mission.
“We are deeply invested in training, collaboration and knowledge sharing. That is what supports long-term resilience across the industry.”
For more information, visit Pipe Core.com.au and no-dignz.com