Smoke Photo + Video: Capturing New Zealand Business Events at Their Best

Smoke Photo + Video

For conferences, corporate functions, awards evenings and major business events, professional photography and video can turn a successful occasion into a lasting visual story. Smoke Photo + Video is a New Zealand event photography and video production company specialising in capturing the people, atmosphere and important moments that make events memorable.

The company was one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026, New Zealand’s national business events tradeshow, held at the New Zealand International Convention Centre in Auckland on 17 and 18 June 2026. 

Event Photography Across New Zealand

Smoke Photo + Video brings together photographers and videographers working across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown and other regions of New Zealand. Its team is designed to provide clients with a consistent photography service, even when events involve multiple cities or locations.

The company says its photographers are selected for their ability to work in a wide range of event environments, while photographs are retouched through its Auckland studio. This combination of local photographers and centralised editing helps provide consistency across large conferences, roadshows and corporate events.

Photography That Tells the Event Story

Smoke Photo + Video

Event photography is about more than recording who attended. Smoke focuses on capturing the atmosphere and human moments that give conferences, awards ceremonies, launches, festivals and corporate celebrations their personality.

Its event photography portfolio includes corporate conferences, awards nights, business events, festivals and major brand events. The company has also worked with organisations including Microsoft, Harcourts and Flight Centre, demonstrating experience across a broad range of professional events.

For event organisers, professionally produced images can provide valuable content for websites, social media, media releases, annual reports and promotion of future events.

Professional Event Video Production

Smoke also provides event video production, with services including vox pops, full event recordings, launch videos and advertising content. Its in-house production and editing team works to create videos that can communicate the energy and story of an event while providing a useful marketing asset after the event has finished.

The company promotes prompt turnaround times, an important consideration for organisers who want to share event highlights while an event is still fresh in the minds of attendees.

A Nationwide Team for Business Events

Smoke Photo + Video

With a studio in Hobsonville, Auckland, and photographers available across numerous New Zealand regions, Smoke Photo + Video provides event organisers with a single photography and video contact for projects ranging from local corporate functions to multi-city events.

Its participation in MEETINGS 2026 placed Smoke alongside venues, hotels, destinations, event suppliers and other organisations serving New Zealand’s business events sector.

Contact Smoke Photo + Video

Contact Person: Zahn Trotter, Director
Website: www.smoke.co.nz
Email: info@smoke.co.nz
Phone: +64 21 156 3386 (Zahn Trotter)
General Phone: 0800 SMOKE 1 (0800 766 531)
Mobile: +64 21 027 36578
Studio: 28/3 Inanga Street, Hobsonville, Auckland, New Zealand

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CELEBRATE IN STYLE: AUCKLAND DINNER VENUES WITH CHARACTER AND ATMOSPHERE

Brad's Warehouse

For event planners, the venue can set the tone for an entire evening. Auckland offers a collection of distinctive dinner venues where heritage architecture, industrial character, lush surroundings and atmospheric interiors provide a memorable backdrop for gala dinners, awards nights and corporate celebrations.

These venues bring personality to an event from the moment delegates arrive, giving organisers an interesting setting that can require less additional theming and styling.

Brad's Warehouse: Industrial Character in the City

Step inside a 19th-century central-city warehouse at Brad's Warehouse, where exposed bluestone, timber floors and original beams create a dramatic industrial atmosphere.

The distinctive architecture provides a naturally stylish backdrop for awards nights, brand events and seated dinners. With space for up to 200 guests for a banquet and 400 for cocktails, the venue offers plenty of flexibility for corporate events.

Tote on Ascot: Heritage Meets Horse Racing

Tote on Ascot 

Located beside Auckland Racecourse, Tote on Ascot combines heritage character with a strong connection to New Zealand's thoroughbred racing history.

The restored building features character-filled interiors and a flexible floorplan, making it suitable for awards dinners, corporate celebrations and events requiring space for both dining and entertainment.

Tote on Ascot can accommodate up to 220 guests for a banquet and 450 for cocktails.

The Glasshouse: A Garden-Inspired Setting

The Glasshouse

The Glasshouse in Morningside offers a distinctive indoor-outdoor atmosphere, with a glass roof, established trees, greenery and industrial-inspired details creating a relaxed yet sophisticated event environment.

The venue provides an appealing setting for gala dinners, brand events and corporate celebrations, while its covered design allows organisers to enjoy the garden atmosphere without relying on the weather.

The Glasshouse accommodates up to 160 guests for a banquet and 300 for cocktails.

Mantells Mount Eden: An Intimate Hidden Gem

Mantells Mount Eden

For smaller corporate gatherings, Mantells Mount Eden offers a more intimate setting behind ivy-covered walls.

A secluded courtyard, fireplaces and atmospheric interiors create an inviting environment for executive dinners, client entertaining and private celebrations. Just a short drive from central Auckland, it combines accessibility with a sense of privacy.

The venue can accommodate up to 50 guests for a banquet and 110 for cocktails.

Let the Venue Create the Atmosphere

A memorable corporate dinner does not always need elaborate theming. Choosing a venue with its own architectural character, heritage story or distinctive surroundings can immediately give an event a sense of occasion.

From the industrial charm of Brad's Warehouse and the racing heritage of Tote on Ascot to the garden atmosphere of The Glasshouse and intimate character of Mantells Mount Eden, Auckland provides event planners with creative alternatives to conventional function spaces.

For conference organisers, incentive planners and corporate event professionals, these venues offer another way to make an evening programme part of the Auckland experience.

Auckland Convention Bureau

Brad's Warehouse

Website: https://aucklandconventionbureau.com/
Email: info@aucklandnz.com
Phone: +64 9 365 0555
Address: Auckland, New Zealand

Brad's Warehouse

Website: https://brads-warehouse.com/
Address: Auckland, New Zealand

Tote on Ascot

Website: https://www.ellerslieevents.co.nz/venues/tote-on-ascot/
Address: Auckland Racecourse, Greenlane, Auckland, New Zealand

The Glasshouse

The Glasshouse

Website: https://glasshouse.net.nz/
Address: Morningside, Auckland, New Zealand

Mantells Mount Eden

Website: https://www.mantells.co.nz/corporate
Phone: +64 9 630 1611
Address: Mount Eden, Auckland, New Zealand

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4 of the Best Walks Near Sydney for Nature, History and Adventure

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

Sydney is surrounded by remarkable walking trails where visitors can escape the city and discover Aboriginal heritage, native wildlife, dramatic cliffs, peaceful bushland and spectacular mountain scenery. From culturally significant sites to family-friendly parklands and challenging long-distance hikes, these four walks near Sydney are ideal for exploring the great outdoors.

1. Aboriginal Heritage Walk at Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

The Aboriginal Heritage Walk in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park offers a fascinating combination of bushwalking, Aboriginal culture, ancient rock art and spectacular harbour scenery.

Starting near Resolute Picnic Area at West Head, the 4.4km loop passes traditional Aboriginal engravings and artworks, the significant Red Hands Cave and the breathtaking West Head lookout before continuing towards Resolute Beach.

The moderately challenging trail includes steep sections, steps and uneven ground. Visitors wanting to learn more about the area's First Nations heritage can also experience the region with a First Nations cultural guide.

Distance: 4.4km loop, about three hours
Difficulty: Moderate

2. Berowra Valley National Park

Berowra Valley National Park

Just beyond Sydney's North Shore suburbs, Berowra Valley National Park provides an extensive network of walking tracks through peaceful bushland, valleys, creeks and lookouts.

The park has more than 70km of walking tracks and fire trails. Options range from beginner-friendly routes such as the Place of Winds Interpretive Trail to more demanding walks including the Lyrebird Gully Circuit.

Wildlife enthusiasts may encounter lyrebirds, native birds and other Australian wildlife, while the bushland provides a refreshing escape from the city's urban environment. Berowra Valley also forms part of the Great North Walk between Sydney and Newcastle.

Distance: Varies, with longer routes extending for several kilometres
Difficulty: Easy to hard, depending on the trail

3. Grand Cliff Top Walk in the Blue Mountains

Grand Cliff Top Walk

For an unforgettable walking adventure near Sydney, the Grand Cliff Top Walk in the Blue Mountains National Park is a spectacular choice. The 19km route connects Wentworth Falls and Katoomba through some of the Blue Mountains' most impressive landscapes.

Walkers can experience waterfalls, eucalyptus forests, dramatic sandstone cliffs and numerous lookouts. Highlights include Wentworth Falls, Leura and views towards the iconic Three Sisters.

The walk can be completed over one or two days, allowing time to explore the villages, enjoy local dining and discover other Blue Mountains attractions.

Distance: 19km
Duration: One to two days
Difficulty: Easy to medium, with steep sections and many steps

4. Western Sydney Parklands

Western Sydney Parklands

Known as Sydney's biggest backyard, Western Sydney Parklands provides more than 70km of trails and tracks across an extensive green space.

There are walking options for almost every fitness level. The Bungarribee Trail combines nature, wildlife, picnic areas and family-friendly playgrounds, while longer routes such as the Spotted Gums Trail provide more challenging exercise.

The parklands also feature native wildflowers, wallabies, birdlife, Aboriginal art and cultural experiences, historic features, playgrounds and dog-friendly areas. The Binyang Matta walk, named after the Dharug name for Place of Birds, is another option for birdwatchers.

Distance: From about 25 minutes to more than four hours, depending on the trail
Difficulty: Easy to challenging

Explore Beyond Sydney on Foot

These four walks near Sydney demonstrate the extraordinary diversity surrounding Australia's largest city. Whether your interests are Aboriginal heritage, Australian wildlife, bushwalking, mountain scenery or family-friendly outdoor recreation, there is a trail to suit your next Sydney adventure.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service
Website: https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/
Phone: 1300 072 757
Address: 4 Parramatta Square, 12 Darcy Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, Australia

Western Sydney Parklands
Website: https://www.greatersydneyparklands.nsw.gov.au/
Phone: (02) 9895 7500
Address: 1-3 Central Place, Rouse Hill NSW 2155, Australia

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Vietnam Sets Its Sights on Becoming a Leading Asian Medical Tourism Destination

Vietnam medical tourism

Vietnam is developing an ambitious national strategy to transform medical tourism into a significant growth sector, with the Ministry of Health finalising a medical tourism strategy covering 2026 to 2030 and a vision extending to 2040. The draft strategy aims to position Vietnam as a trusted healthcare destination in Southeast Asia by 2030 and ultimately among Asia’s leading medical tourism hubs.

Vietnam’s Growing Medical Tourism Appeal

Vietnam already has several factors supporting the development of international healthcare tourism, including experienced medical professionals, increasingly advanced technology and comparatively competitive treatment costs.

The country attracts international patients for dental care, fertility treatment, surgery, cardiovascular procedures, organ transplantation, traditional medicine and rehabilitation.

Vietnamese hospitals are also gaining international attention for specialist medical expertise. Major hospitals in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have developed services specifically for international patients, while medical facilities are increasingly working with tourism businesses to provide coordinated services.

Dental Tourism Offers International Opportunities

Dental treatment is one of Vietnam’s established medical tourism sectors.

International patients include foreign residents as well as overseas Vietnamese returning from countries including Australia, the United States and Japan. Dental procedures that can be completed within relatively short treatment periods can allow visitors to combine healthcare with family visits, sightseeing and holidays.

The combination of healthcare and tourism is particularly relevant for travellers who can arrange treatment during a longer visit to Vietnam.

Advanced Healthcare Expands the Market

Vietnam medical tourism

Vietnam’s medical tourism sector is extending beyond dentistry.

Major hospitals now provide advanced treatments including cardiovascular interventions, organ transplantation, in-vitro fertilisation and robot-assisted surgery. According to figures cited by Vietnam News Agency, around 300,000 foreign nationals and overseas Vietnamese travel to Vietnam each year for medical services, including more than 50,000 requiring inpatient treatment.

Fertility treatment is another growing area, with Vietnam developing a significant IVF sector in Southeast Asia. Traditional medicine, acupuncture, herbal medicine and rehabilitation are also attracting international interest.

Medical Care Combined with Tourism

Vietnam is developing tourism infrastructure around healthcare services, particularly in major cities and popular resort destinations.

Hospitals in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have introduced international-patient services and digitalised administrative procedures. Partnerships between healthcare providers and travel companies are also creating packages incorporating airport transfers, accommodation and post-treatment services.

Destinations including Da Nang and Phu Quoc are exploring integrated healthcare and resort models, while Khanh Hoa and Lam Dong are developing wellness experiences involving traditional medicine, mineral springs, rehabilitation and relaxation.

A 2040 Vision for Medical Tourism

Vietnam medical tourism

The proposed national strategy represents a move towards treating medical tourism as a coordinated national development opportunity rather than an emerging niche.

The Ministry of Health is simultaneously progressing broader national healthcare programmes for 2026-2030, including measures focused on healthcare capacity, digital transformation and improved health services.

For Vietnam, the challenge will be to combine medical expertise with international patient services, tourism infrastructure, quality standards and cooperation between hospitals, tourism businesses and local authorities.

If successfully developed, medical tourism could provide international visitors with another reason to choose Vietnam, combining healthcare and wellness services with the country's renowned culture, cuisine, beaches, heritage and natural attractions.

Vietnam Ministry of Health
Website: https://moh.gov.vn/
Address: 138A Giang Vo Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam

Vietnam National Authority of Tourism
Website: https://vietnamtourism.gov.vn/
Address: 80 Quan Su Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam

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Witch Perfect Casts a Spell on Sydney with Drag, Comedy and Live Singing

Sydney audiences are set for a wickedly entertaining night when Tina Burner Presents Witch Perfect arrives at Darling Quarter Theatre on Saturday 10 October 2026.

Described as an all-live-singing comedy parody inspired by the cult-classic Disney film Hocus Pocus, Witch Perfect combines drag performance, comedy, music and theatrical spectacle. The Sydney performance begins at 8pm, with doors opening at 6pm. 

RuPaul’s Drag Race Stars Take Centre Stage

Witch Perfect brings together three internationally recognised performers from RuPaul’s Drag Race.

Tina Burner takes on the role of Winifred, with Scarlet Envy performing as Sara and Alexis Michelle as Mary. The production brings their distinctive drag personalities and live performance talents together for a theatrical take on the famous witch sisters.

The result is a show that combines the familiar Hocus Pocus concept with an entirely new musical comedy experience, making Witch Perfect an appealing choice for Sydney visitors seeking something different from traditional theatre.

Pop Hits Meet Broadway and Disney

Witch Perfect

Music is at the heart of Witch Perfect, with the production moving well beyond the original Hocus Pocus story.

The performance features musical parodies inspired by pop icons including Lady Gaga, Madonna and Cher, alongside Disney favourites from The Little Mermaid and The Lion King. Broadway fans are also treated to numbers inspired by Gypsy and Wicked. 

One of the show's signature moments is the sisters' own take on the famous "I Put a Spell on You", adding another theatrical highlight to the evening.

With comedy woven through the music, audiences can expect a lively performance that celebrates drag, popular culture and musical theatre.

A Halloween Season Night Out in Darling Harbour

The October timing makes Witch Perfect a natural choice for a Halloween-season night out in Sydney. Darling Quarter Theatre provides an intimate setting in the heart of Darling Harbour, surrounded by restaurants, entertainment and waterfront attractions.

The theatre is operated by Century Venues and presents a year-round program spanning comedy, cabaret, music and family entertainment.

For visitors staying in central Sydney, Darling Harbour is conveniently positioned within walking distance of many hotels and attractions, making it easy to combine the performance with dinner or an evening exploring the waterfront.

Plan Your Sydney Theatre Experience

Tina Burner Presents Witch Perfect performs at Darling Quarter Theatre on Saturday 10 October 2026 at 8pm. Doors open at 6pm. Ticket information and bookings are available through the official event listing.

The production contains adult themes and is intended for mature audiences.

Darling Quarter Theatre

Website: https://www.darlingquartertheatre.com.au/
Phone: 02 9550 3666
Address: Shop 3, 1-25 Harbour Street, Sydney NSW 2000
For tickets: https://aucentury.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/166423

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The Great Graze Returns to Barangaroo for a Weekend of Food, Culture and Harbour Views

The Great Graze

Sydney's spectacular waterfront will become a food lover's playground when The Great Graze returns to The Streets of Barangaroo on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October 2026.

This free, family-friendly food festival will bring together food, culture, live entertainment and community spirit across Barangaroo's harbourside precinct. With 25 food stalls, waterfront dining, First Nations flavours and sweet treats, The Great Graze offers visitors an opportunity to discover some of Sydney's favourite food destinations in a relaxed outdoor setting.

Graze Your Way Along Wulugul Walk

The Great Graze will transform Wulugul Walk into a waterfront tasting trail, with participating restaurants serving street-style versions of their popular dishes.

Visitors can sample food from venues including Anason, Belles Hot Chicken, Gina, Lotus, Muum Maam and Zushi, with each participating venue featuring at least one dish incorporating a native Australian ingredient.

Highlights include Belles Hot Chicken's Kakadu plum glaze chicken sandwich, Gina's lemon myrtle pasta and Anason's Turkish-inspired dishes. The combination creates an opportunity to sample different cuisines while enjoying the atmosphere of Sydney Harbour.

First Nations Flavours at Pier Pavilion

The Great Graze

A major feature of The Great Graze in 2026 is the partnership with Indigiearth and the First Nations Native Food Market at Pier Pavilion.

Curated by Indigiearth founder Sharon Winsor, the market will showcase First Nations food businesses, native ingredients, cultural products and storytelling.

Visitors can discover businesses including Ziggy's Wildfoods, Lore Australia, Native Botanical Brewery, Baagi Milaygiin, South Coast Seaweed, Ngumpie Weaving and The Unexpected Guest.

Indigiearth will also serve native food dishes, including kangaroo and crocodile, providing festival-goers with an opportunity to explore Australian native flavours.

Waterfront Food Market at Watermans Cove

The food adventure continues at Watermans Cove, where a waterfront market will feature a selection of Barangaroo food businesses.

Among the offerings are Annamese grilled chicken lemongrass skewers, Anita Gelato's wattleseed crème brûlée ice cream, Banksia Bakehouse's wattleseed and chocolate chip cookie, and Devon Cafe's matcha and finger lime treats.

With the harbour providing the backdrop, visitors can graze between stalls while exploring more of The Streets of Barangaroo.

Save Room for Something Sweet

The Great Graze

Dessert lovers will have plenty of reasons to explore the precinct, with a selection of sweet retailers offering special treats during The Great Graze.

The dessert trail includes Anita Gelato, BROOKI, Banksia Bakehouse, Enze, Rivareno, Sweet Belem and Yo-Chi. Options range from artisan gelato and Portuguese custard tarts to freshly baked cookies and pastries.

A Free Sydney Harbour Weekend Festival

The Great Graze is designed for visitors to take their time, discover different flavours and enjoy Barangaroo's waterfront atmosphere. Live entertainment and family-friendly activities add to the weekend program, while Barangaroo House provides a festival bar and gathering space.

The Streets of Barangaroo is easily accessible by public transport, making it convenient for visitors exploring Sydney.

The Great Graze 2026 

Date: Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October 2026
Time: 12pm to 6pm
Address: Wulugul Walk, The Streets of Barangaroo, Barangaroo, NSW
Entry: Free

The Streets of Barangaroo

Website: https://www.thestreetsofbarangaroo.com/
The Great Graze: https://www.thestreetsofbarangaroo.com/thegreatgraze/
Phone: (02) 9236 6111

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Okinawa Industrial Festival 2026: Discover the Best of Okinawa-Made Products in Naha

Okinawa Industrial Festival

Visitors to Okinawa in October can discover the island’s creativity, flavours and craftsmanship at the Okinawa Industrial Festival in Naha, one of the prefecture’s major events celebrating locally made products and industries.

Starting from 23 October 2026, the festival provides an opportunity for travellers to taste, shop and discover a fascinating range of Okinawa-made food, crafts, products and local specialties. It is an ideal event for foodies, shoppers and culture lovers wanting to experience another side of Okinawa beyond its beaches and resorts.

Discover Okinawa-Made Products

The Okinawa Industrial Festival is a major showcase for products made throughout the prefecture. Visitors can explore displays and stalls featuring locally produced goods, food, agricultural products, crafts and other specialties.

For travellers, the festival provides a convenient introduction to Okinawa’s diverse local industries in one location. It is also a great place to discover products that can provide memorable souvenirs of an Okinawa holiday.

The event plays an important role in promoting the use and awareness of Okinawa-made products and supporting the prefecture’s local economy. Okinawa Prefecture describes the festival as a comprehensive industrial exhibition covering industries across the prefecture.

Taste the Flavours of Okinawa

Okinawa Industrial Festival 2026

Food is an important attraction at the Okinawa Industrial Festival. Visitors can discover local ingredients, prepared foods and specialty products representing the distinctive flavours of the Okinawan islands.

From traditional favourites to innovative products created by local businesses, the festival offers food lovers an opportunity to taste something different and learn more about the ingredients and producers behind Okinawa’s cuisine.

For visitors looking for authentic Okinawan food experiences, the festival can be a rewarding addition to a Naha itinerary.

Experience Okinawan Creativity and Culture

The festival is more than a shopping opportunity. It highlights the skills, creativity and innovation of Okinawa’s businesses, manufacturers, producers and craftspeople.

Okinawa has a distinctive cultural identity shaped by its Ryukyu Kingdom heritage, island environment and connections with neighbouring parts of Asia. The Industrial Festival provides visitors with another way to discover this identity through locally produced goods and traditional and contemporary craftsmanship.

The festival has been held as a prefecture-wide industrial event since 1977 and has developed into an important showcase for Okinawa’s industries. Okinawa Prefecture reported more than 310,000 visitors to the 2023 event.

Plan Your Naha Visit in October

Okinawa Industrial Festival

For travellers searching for things to do in Naha in October, the Okinawa Industrial Festival offers a different perspective on the destination.

Rather than simply sightseeing, visitors can meet the products, flavours and creative industries that help make Okinawa unique. It is particularly suited to foodies, shoppers and culture lovers wanting to take home something connected to the islands.

The festival is held annually from the fourth Friday to Sunday in October, with the 2026 event commencing on 23 October. Visitors should check the official information before travelling for the latest dates, venue details and programme information.

Okinawa Industrial Festival 2026

Website: https://visitokinawajapan.com/discover/events/okinawa-industrial-festival/

Okinawa Prefecture – Manufacturing Promotion Division

Website: https://www.pref.okinawa.jp/
Phone: +81 98 866 2337
Address: 1-2-2 Izumizaki, Naha, Okinawa 900-8570, Japan

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Tokyo Secures Six Prestigious International Conferences and Strengthens Its Global Business Events Appeal

Tokyo Big Sight (Tokyo International Exhibition Center)

Tokyo is continuing to strengthen its position as one of Asia's major destinations for international conferences, with six prestigious global events confirmed for the Japanese capital between 2027 and 2029.

For business travellers attending these conferences, the announcements offer another reason to discover Tokyo, a city where advanced convention facilities, global connectivity, Japanese culture, entertainment and hospitality come together.

Business Events Tokyo says the six conferences will bring thousands of international participants to the city, reinforcing Tokyo's reputation for world-class convention infrastructure and enduring global appeal.

Six Major International Conferences Coming to Tokyo

The confirmed events cover healthcare, technology, intelligent transportation, software engineering and specialist medical fields.

AONS and ISNCC will jointly hold their inaugural commemorative conference in Tokyo in 2027, with approximately 1,050 participants expected.

The IGCS 2027 Annual Global Meeting will bring approximately 4,000 participants to Tokyo, providing an international meeting point for specialists in gynecologic oncology.

SIGGRAPH Asia 2027 is expected to be the largest of the six events by attendance, with approximately 10,000 participants. The international conference and exhibition focuses on computer graphics and interactive technologies.

Tokyo will then host ITSC 2028, attracting approximately 1,000 participants and bringing together experts in intelligent transportation.

ICSE 2029 is expected to welcome approximately 2,000 participants for one of the world's leading international conferences in software engineering.

APFSSH 2029 will bring approximately 1,100 hand surgeons, researchers and healthcare professionals from across the Asia-Pacific region to share developments in hand surgery.

Tokyo's Convention Calendar Reaches Around the World

Business Events Tokyo

For visitors, these conferences represent more than business meetings. International delegates can combine conference attendance with a holiday exploring Tokyo's distinctive neighbourhoods, cuisine, cultural attractions and entertainment.

The city's ability to host large-scale international events is supported by major convention venues and a broad network of hotels, professional conference organisers, destination management companies and event suppliers.

Business Events Tokyo provides free and impartial venue and supplier-finding assistance together with local advice for international conferences and corporate events.

From International Conferences to Tokyo Experiences

Business travellers visiting Tokyo can extend their stay beyond the conference venue to experience the city's remarkable contrast between tradition and innovation.

Visitors can explore historic temples and shrines, enjoy Japanese cuisine, discover contemporary art and technology, or travel through the city's diverse neighbourhoods using its extensive public transport network.

For corporate groups, Tokyo also offers cultural programs and entertainment options designed to create memorable experiences beyond the meeting room. Business Events Tokyo's current corporate-events programs include special support for qualifying meetings and incentive groups, including cultural programs or party entertainment.

This combination allows conference delegates to turn a business trip into an opportunity to experience more of Japan.

Major Venues for Global Events

Tokyo has a wide selection of international convention venues.

The Tokyo International Forum, for example, is located in central Tokyo and offers 39 meeting rooms, with its largest theatre accommodating up to 5,012 people. The venue is scheduled to host SIGGRAPH Asia 2027 and the IGCS 2027 Annual Global Meeting.

Other major Tokyo venues provide facilities for exhibitions, conferences, corporate events, banquets and incentive programs, giving international event organisers a broad choice of locations.

A Destination for Business and Leisure Travellers

Tokyo

The arrival of six more international conferences demonstrates the breadth of Tokyo's appeal to global associations and professional organisations.

For delegates, Tokyo offers the chance to combine professional networking and knowledge exchange with an unforgettable city experience. For event organisers, the city's convention infrastructure, accommodation choices, cultural experiences and specialist business-events support provide a comprehensive environment for international gatherings.

With conferences already confirmed through 2029, Tokyo's international business-events calendar is providing visitors with plenty of reasons to put Japan's capital on their future travel plans.

Business Events Tokyo

Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau
Website: https://businesseventstokyo.org/
Email: businessevents@tcvb.or.jp
Phone: +81-3-5579-2684
Address: Shinjuku Monolith 15F, 2-3-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 163-0915, Japan

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China Marine Economy Expo 2026: Shenzhen Sets Course for the Future of the Blue Economy

The China Marine Economy Expo 

The China Marine Economy Expo 2026 will bring the global marine industry together in Shenzhen from 22 to 24 October, creating an important meeting place for marine technology, shipping, sustainability, coastal tourism and the rapidly developing blue economy.

Held at the Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center in Bao'an, the national-level event is expected to attract more than 350 exhibitors across a 50,000-square-metre exhibition.

Discover the Future of China's Marine Economy

The China Marine Economy Expo provides an opportunity for industry professionals, businesses, researchers and international visitors to discover new developments across the marine economy.

The 2026 Expo will feature eight thematic zones covering areas including deep and far marine energy, green shipping and low-carbon logistics, marine electronics and information technology, marine ecology, sustainable development, marine monitoring, marine biomedicine and modern marine services.

For travellers interested in the relationship between the ocean and tourism, the modern marine services and coastal cultural tourism zone will be particularly relevant.

From Marine Technology to Coastal Tourism

The China Marine Economy Expo 

Marine tourism is an increasingly important part of the wider ocean economy, connecting coastal destinations with cultural experiences, leisure activities and marine-based attractions.

The Expo provides an opportunity to explore how technology and innovation are influencing coastal tourism while also discovering businesses and destinations developing new ways for visitors to experience the ocean.

The event brings together marine enterprises, research organisations, government representatives and industry professionals, providing opportunities for knowledge sharing and international connections.

Global Marine Cities Forum Adds International Perspective

Running alongside the China Marine Economy Expo will be the Global Marine Cities Forum, together with more than 20 specialised sessions.

The forum program will address subjects including global ocean governance, blue economy development and marine technology innovation. International organisations, maritime representatives, business leaders and financial and investment professionals are expected to participate.

For international visitors, the combination of the exhibition and conference program provides an opportunity to gain a broader understanding of how cities and industries are responding to the opportunities and challenges associated with the world's oceans.

Why Shenzhen Is the Ideal Host City

The China Marine Economy Expo 

Shenzhen's location within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area makes it an important centre for maritime business, port operations, shipbuilding and marine engineering supply chains.

The Expo will also include B2B business matching and investment and financing networking opportunities, connecting technology developers and businesses with potential commercial partners.

For visitors, Shenzhen itself adds another dimension to the experience. The dynamic Greater Bay Area city combines modern architecture, technology, shopping, dining and easy access to a wider network of coastal destinations.

Plan Your China Marine Economy Expo Visit

China Marine Economy Expo 2026 will be held from 22 to 24 October 2026 at Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center.

The event is particularly relevant for professionals and visitors interested in marine tourism, cruise and maritime industries, coastal destinations, sustainable ocean development, marine technology and international business opportunities.

With marine innovation and tourism increasingly interconnected, the Shenzhen Expo offers a timely  opportunity to discover how the blue economy is shaping the future of travel, industry and coastal communities.

China Marine Economy Expo 2026

Website: https://www.cmee.com.cn/en/
Venue: Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center, Bao'an, Shenzhen, China
Dates: 22–24 October 2026

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BIGBANG Brings 20th Anniversary World Tour to Sydney

BIGBANG 2026-2027 WORLD TOUR

Sydney is set to become a major destination for K-pop fans when BIGBANG brings its highly anticipated BIGBANG 2026-2027 WORLD TOUR < XX : COSMOS > to Accor Stadium on Saturday 31 October 2026.

The Sydney concert will be the group's only Australian performance on the world tour and will celebrate 20 years since BIGBANG's debut. The concert is presented by AEG and Frontier Touring in partnership with Destination NSW.

BIGBANG Returns to the World Stage

The Sydney concert reunites G-DRAGON, TAEYANG and DAESUNG for BIGBANG's first world tour since 2017. The tour is taking the Korean group to stadiums and major venues across North America, Europe, Oceania and Asia.

BIGBANG's return comes during a milestone anniversary year for the group, which has played an influential role in the international growth of K-pop. The 2026-2027 tour provides Australian fans with an opportunity to experience the group live as it celebrates two decades of music.

The group's recent musical activity has also added to the excitement surrounding the tour. BIGBANG released the digital single BiiiG in August 2026 as part of its 20th anniversary celebrations.

One Australian Concert in Sydney

BIGBANG

BIGBANG will perform at Accor Stadium in Sydney Olympic Park on Saturday 31 October 2026, with the concert scheduled to begin at 7.30pm. It is an all-ages event.

For fans travelling to Sydney from interstate or regional NSW, the concert creates an opportunity to combine a major K-pop event with a Sydney city break. Visitors can explore Sydney's attractions, restaurants, shopping and harbour before travelling to Sydney Olympic Park for the concert.

Public transport is recommended for getting to and from the event, with travel arrangements and event transport information available through Sydney Olympic Park and Transport for NSW.

A Major K-pop Night in Sydney

BIGBANG 2026-2027 WORLD TOUR

The BIGBANG 2026-2027 WORLD TOUR < XX : COSMOS > Sydney concert is expected to attract fans from across Australia because Sydney is the tour's only Australian destination.

For K-pop enthusiasts searching for BIGBANG Sydney tickets, BIGBANG Sydney concert information, K-pop concerts Sydney 2026 or things to do in Sydney in October, 31 October promises a major night of live music at one of Australia's leading stadiums.

With BIGBANG marking 20 years since its debut, the Sydney concert combines a significant anniversary with the group's return to the Australian stage.

Frontier Touring

Website: https://www.frontiertouring.com/
BIGBANG Tour Information: https://www.frontiertouring.com/bigbang

Accor Stadium

Website: https://www.accorstadium.com.au/
Phone: (02) 8765 2000
Address: Edwin Flack Avenue, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127, Australia

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