Thursday, June 5, 2025
As New Zealand prepares to host MEETINGS 2025 in Auckland, the nation’s business events industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, marked by the development of cutting-edge venues and a renewed focus on cultural integration and sustainability.
MEETINGS 2025: A Premier Showcase
Organized by Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA), MEETINGS 2025 is set to take place on June 11-12 at the Auckland Showgrounds. This annual trade show serves as a pivotal platform for connecting domestic and international buyers with New Zealand’s diverse range of event suppliers, including venues, accommodation providers, and regional tourism organizations.
The event underscores New Zealand’s commitment to elevating its profile in the global business events arena, offering attendees insights into the country’s unique offerings and fostering opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
State-of-the-Art Venues Elevate New Zealand’s Appeal
Central to New Zealand’s burgeoning reputation as a premier business events destination are its world-class convention centres, which blend modern design with cultural significance and environmental consciousness.
Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre
Opened in December 2021, Te Pae Christchurch stands as a testament to the city’s resilience and forward-thinking approach. The facility boasts a 1,400-seat auditorium, a 2,800m² exhibition hall, and 24 meeting rooms, accommodating up to 2,000 attendees. Since its inauguration, Te Pae has significantly contributed to Christchurch’s economic revitalization, hosting numerous events that draw both domestic and international visitors.
Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre
Wellington’s Tākina, which opened in June 2023, offers 18,000m² of versatile event space across three floors. Strategically located opposite the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, Tākina has quickly become a hub for conferences and exhibitions, enhancing the capital’s cultural and economic landscape.
New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC)
Anticipated to open in February 2026, the NZICC in Auckland is poised to become the country’s largest convention centre. With 6,674m² of exhibition space and 2,700m² dedicated to meetings, the NZICC will accommodate up to 3,000 delegates. Its integration with nearby hotels and sustainable design features positions it as a cornerstone for Auckland’s future in hosting large-scale international events.
Embracing Cultural Integration and Sustainability
New Zealand’s approach to business events extends beyond infrastructure, emphasizing the incorporation of Māori culture and sustainable practices.
Te Pae Christchurch, for instance, was named by local iwi, reflecting a deep respect for Māori heritage. The venue integrates cultural narratives throughout its design, offering attendees an immersive experience that honors the land’s indigenous roots.
Similarly, Tākina’s architectural inspiration draws from Wellington’s natural environment and Māori mythology, creating a space that resonates with cultural significance. The centre’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its 5-Star Green Star certification, highlighting its environmentally responsible design and operations.
The upcoming NZICC also prioritizes sustainability, incorporating advanced technologies to minimize its environmental footprint while fostering community engagement through cultural initiatives.
A Collaborative National Effort
New Zealand’s business events industry thrives on collaboration, with cities and venues working collectively to promote the country as a unified destination. This “Team New Zealand” approach ensures that events, regardless of location, contribute to the nation’s overall appeal and economic growth.
Lisa Hopkins, CEO of BEIA, emphasizes this unity:
“We all travel overseas as Team New Zealand – not Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch – so it’s quite collaborative. We need to get people to this part of the world, so if a conference comes here but doesn’t go to Auckland, it’s still a win for us because it might not have come at all.”
Economic Impact and Future Outlook
The business events sector significantly contributes to New Zealand’s economy, attracting high-spending visitors who often extend their stays to explore the country’s natural beauty and cultural offerings. Events like MEETINGS 2025 not only facilitate business connections but also stimulate regional development and international trade opportunities.
With a robust pipeline of events scheduled through 2029 and continuous investments in infrastructure and sustainability, New Zealand is well-positioned to solidify its status as a leading global destination for business events.
