THINKING DIFFERENTLY - NELSON'S DNA?

Nelson’s inviting climate seems to have attracted and encouraged people who think differently over the years. In the 2025 James Jenkins lecture, guest speaker Mike Hutcheson will share his research into the alchemy of innovation and creativity and ask if the pantheon of politicians, scientists, writers, architects, and artists from the region are proof that Nelson’s DNA encourages creativity and thinking differently.

Mike grew up In Nelson and attended Nelson College. After obtaining Diploma of Fine Arts Preliminary, Mike ended up studying Law at Canterbury and Victoria Universities. He didn’t finish his Law degree but did break the World Rocking Chair record. He discovered advertising by accident, starting his career in Wellington. He co-founded advertising agencies: Colenso BBDO and Hutcheson Knowles Marinkovich. He culminated his advertising career in Auckland as Managing Director of Saatchi and Saatchi.

Mike is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing and has a Master of Philosophy degree (1st Class Hons). His thesis was on the alchemy of innovation in New Zealand business. He is an Adjunct Professor at Auckland University of Technology.

The James Jenkins lecture is a biennial event proudly presented by Nelson Historical Society - Te Manatōpū Hītori o Whakatū, and this year supported by Nelson City Council and The Suter Art Gallery Te Aratoi o Whakatū. The lecture is part of Tuku 2025, a festival in Nelson that celebrates the region's diverse heritage and history.

Please arrive early and enjoy a drink at the bar, open from 7pm.