Big tech conference kicks off in Auckland

Kiwi physicist Sean Gourley, who runs US-based company Quid, opened proceedings at TechEd last night. Photo / Simon Baker

Hundreds of Kiwi software developers and IT professionals are in Auckland this week to feast on all things Microsoft at the country's biggest tech conference.

Microsoft's annual TechEd event kicked off at SkyCity Convention Centre last night.

More than 2000 people packed in to hear the opening address from one of the country's most successful exports, physicist Sean Gourley.

Gourley is the founder and head of San Francisco-based company Quid, whose software helps some of the world's biggest firms analyse vast amounts of data.

Quid's clients include NASA, Red Bull, Intel and Visa.

Gourley has so far recruited six Kiwis to work in his team of 52 but said he was always looking for more.

"We're hiring now, so look us up," he told the crowd.

TechEd is held in several locations around the world and this is its 18th year in New Zealand.

The four-day event features a solid schedule of breakout and panel sessions, plus the opportunity to get hands-on with new technology.