Keynote speaker Ngahi Bidois talked about the value of being authentic in his presentation on Thursday.

Day two of the 2012 EO Queenstown University was filled with raucous laughter, shared insights … and enough rain to fill the Grand Canyon (twice). General Session started at 9 a.m., with hundreds of eager entrepreneurs sitting in for a keynote presentation by Ngahi Bidois, a teacher and 2011 New Zealand Speaker of the Year. His session, titled “Ancient Wisdom, Modern Solutions for Leaders,” shed some light on the Maori culture and the importance of being authentic in business and life.

Following Ngahi was Sir Ray Avery, serial entrepreneur , scientist, inventor and 2010 New Zealander of the Year; Craig Nevill-Manning, director of engineering at Google; and Derek Handley, mobile marketer and founder of Hyperfactory. Following the keynote sessions was a set of Learn-Arounds that emphasized the adventure element of the University, including a trek at Bob’s Peak with celebrated explorer Mark Inglis, a shotover jet experience with Clark Scott and a jetpack simulation with Glenn Martin at the Queenstown airport.

Rounding out the day were Breakout Sessions that extended the educational value, including sessions by Simon Mundell, co-founder of RESULTS.com; Beatrice Faumina, former world discus champion; Wade Jackson, the mind warrior; Tim Alpe, cheif JUCYfier of JUCY Group; Simon Young, partner of engagement consultancy at SyENGAGE; and Allie Mooney, a renowned corproate speaker. With their brains full of knowledge, the 375 attendees later departed for Dine-Arounds in downtown Queenstown.

Tomorrow, more learning and laughing. And (hopefully) no rain.