Sonoma County Goes Cowboy Core: Where Western Heritage Meets Wine Country

Spur Saloon

Sonoma County is putting a fresh spin on one of travel’s most distinctive lifestyle trends: Cowboy Core. Here, Western culture is not simply a fashion statement. It is woven into ranching traditions, horseback adventures, country music, handcrafted goods and the agricultural heritage of California’s Wine Country.

From lively saloons and line dancing to historic mercantile stores and bespoke cowboy hats, Sonoma County offers travellers an authentic way to experience the Western spirit while discovering its towns, vineyards and spectacular landscapes.

Western Nights Come Alive at Spur Saloon

In Windsor, Spur Saloon brings a new country-western energy to the local dining and entertainment scene. Created by the owners of nearby Grata Italian Eatery, the venue combines rustic Western character with an upscale lodge-inspired atmosphere.

Live country music, dancing, line-dancing events and karaoke make Spur Saloon an inviting destination for visitors wanting to experience Sonoma County after dark.

Dance Your Way into Cowboy Culture

Grapevine Dance is helping make country dancing accessible to everyone, offering line-dancing lessons and social events for beginners and experienced dancers alike.

Events take place at venues including the historic Washoe House in Petaluma, Twin Oaks Roadhouse in Penngrove and Sonoma Community Center. With country music, friendly instruction, food and drinks, these gatherings offer travellers an easy and enjoyable introduction to Sonoma County’s growing Western social scene.

Ride Through Sonoma’s Wild Side

The Ranch at Lake Sonom

For an authentic Cowboy Core adventure, The Ranch at Lake Sonoma takes visitors into the countryside on guided horseback rides through the vast Lake Sonoma Recreation Area.

Riders can explore trails overlooking Lake Sonoma, Dry Creek Valley and the rugged Rockpile wine region. Experiences range from scenic rides to private outings, with some excursions combining a picnic with local wine or beer. It is a memorable way to connect with Sonoma County’s landscapes and ranching traditions.

Find Your Signature Western Style

The Hattery of Sonoma County

Cowboy Core also extends into fashion, and Santa Rosa’s The Hattery of Sonoma County offers an especially personal experience. This working hat factory, showroom and museum creates Shady Brady hats while offering bespoke designs, workshops, alterations and repairs.

Its vintage collection and traditional hat-making heritage give visitors the opportunity to discover the craftsmanship behind Western headwear and leave with a distinctive Sonoma County keepsake.

In downtown Petaluma, Blanton’s Boot & Hat brings premium cowboy boots, custom hats, Western clothing and leather accessories together in an elevated boutique setting.

Meanwhile, Large Leather on Sonoma Plaza has spent more than 45 years crafting fine leather goods. Belts, handbags, wallets and other pieces provide a sophisticated interpretation of Western style.

Step Back in Time at Bosworth & Son

Bosworth & Son General Merchandise 

In Geyserville, Bosworth & Son General Merchandise offers perhaps the strongest connection to Sonoma County’s historic Western character. Founded in 1911 and still operated by the Bosworth family, the traditional mercantile stocks Western hats, jeans, shirts and gifts.

Custom hat shaping, cleaning and restoration add to the experience, while the historic store provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s ranching and agricultural past.

Experience the Real Cowboy Core

Sonoma County proves that Cowboy Core can be much more than a fashion trend. It is an invitation to explore authentic local culture through music, dancing, horseback riding, craftsmanship, shopping and historic traditions.

For travellers seeking a different side of Sonoma County Wine Country, the new Western-inspired experiences offer an unforgettable journey where cowboy heritage and contemporary California style ride comfortably side by side.

Sonoma County Tourism

Website: https://www.sonomacounty.com/
Email: info@sonomacounty.com
Phone: +1 707 545 4000
Address: 400 Aviation Boulevard, Suite 500, Santa Rosa, California 95403, USA

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Melbourne’s Data Centre and AI Success Sets the Stage for 2027

Data Center World Australia & The AI Summit Australia

Melbourne has strengthened its reputation as a leading destination for technology-focused business events following the successful inaugural Australian editions of Data Center World Australia and The AI Summit Australia.

Held at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the co-located events brought together technology leaders, innovators, investors and decision-makers to examine the rapidly evolving relationship between artificial intelligence, data centres and digital infrastructure.

Following the success of the 2026 debut, organisers have confirmed the events will return to Melbourne in 2027, providing another major opportunity for Australia's technology sector to connect with global expertise and explore emerging business opportunities.

AI and Digital Infrastructure Meet in Melbourne

Data Center World Australia and The AI Summit Australia were designed to bring two closely connected industries together. Artificial intelligence increasingly depends on powerful computing infrastructure, while the rapid growth of AI is creating new demands for data centres, energy, cooling, connectivity and cybersecurity.

The Melbourne events provided a shared platform where these issues could be explored together, creating opportunities for technology businesses, government representatives, infrastructure providers and enterprise leaders to exchange ideas and develop new connections.

The official event program featured keynote presentations, conferences, panel discussions, networking, technical tours, masterclasses and an exhibition showcasing technologies supporting the next generation of AI and digital infrastructure.

Industry Leaders Explore the Future

The AI Summit Australia

The inaugural Australian events attracted prominent speakers and technology leaders from government and major international companies, including representatives from the Australian Department of Defence, Mercedes-Benz, DHL and Amazon Web Services.

Topics explored across the program included artificial intelligence, data centre development, cloud computing, sustainability, cybersecurity, investment, workforce development and the infrastructure required to support increasingly sophisticated AI workloads.

The co-location of the two events also created a valuable opportunity to consider AI from both the business and infrastructure perspectives. The AI Summit focused on practical enterprise AI applications and measurable outcomes, while Data Center World addressed the infrastructure needed to scale digital technologies.

Melbourne Builds Technology Event Momentum

Melbourne provided a strong setting for the inaugural Australian events, with Victoria offering a growing technology ecosystem, research capability and expanding digital infrastructure sector.

The events also showcased Melbourne as a destination for international conferences that connect business, innovation and investment. The Victorian Government has identified data centres and artificial intelligence as important areas of future economic growth, while the city's convention infrastructure provides a central venue for major international business events.

With organisers now planning a return to Melbourne in 2027, the success of the inaugural events is expected to strengthen the city's position in Australia's rapidly developing AI and data centre landscape.

Data Center World and The AI Summit Australia 2027

The AI Summit Australia

The return of Data Center World Australia and The AI Summit Australia will give technology professionals another opportunity to connect with industry leaders, discover emerging technologies and explore the future of artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure.

For business event travellers, technology companies, investors and decision-makers searching for major technology conferences in Melbourne, the 2027 return promises to build on the momentum established by the inaugural Australian edition.

Data Center World Australia

Website: https://datacenterworldaustralia.com/
Email: info@informa.com.au

The AI Summit Australia

Website: https://australia.theaisummit.com/

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Japan Nears One Million Australian Visitors as Travel Boom Continues Across Asia

Japan

Japan Becomes One of Australia’s Favourite Overseas Destinations

Japan is rapidly approaching a remarkable tourism milestone, with Australian visitor numbers reaching 990,950 in the year to July 2026. The figure places Japan just short of welcoming one million Australian travellers annually, highlighting the country’s growing popularity among Australians seeking culture, cuisine, nature, history and unforgettable holiday experiences.

The latest ATIA September 2026 Travel Trends Report shows that Australians continued to travel overseas in record numbers, taking 12.76 million international trips during the year. Outbound travel increased by 3.5%, reflecting strong demand for overseas holidays as travellers continue exploring destinations across Asia and beyond.

International visitor arrivals into Australia also recorded strong growth, reaching 9.07 million, an increase of 6.9% compared with the previous year.

Japan’s Growing Appeal for Australian Travellers

Japan’s rise as a leading destination for Australian visitors has been driven by its unique combination of ancient traditions and modern experiences. From the historic temples of Kyoto and the bright lights of Tokyo to the natural beauty of Hokkaido, Mount Fuji and Okinawa’s beaches, Japan offers something for every style of traveller.

Australian visitors are increasingly attracted to Japan’s world-famous food culture, seasonal experiences such as cherry blossom viewing and autumn colours, efficient transport networks and welcoming communities.

Visitor numbers to Japan increased by 8.5% in the year to July 2026, placing the destination on track to become the next major overseas market to reach one million Australian visitors.

Vietnam and China Lead Australia’s Outbound Travel Growth

While Japan continues its strong performance, Vietnam has emerged as the fastest-growing overseas destination for Australian travellers. Visitor numbers to Vietnam increased by 15.9% to 577,880 during the year.

Vietnam’s appeal continues to grow thanks to its stunning landscapes, affordable travel experiences, vibrant cities, rich history and diverse cuisine. Destinations including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Hoi An and Ha Long Bay are attracting increasing numbers of Australian holidaymakers.

China also recorded significant growth, with Australian outbound travel to China rising 13.4% to 749,130 visitors. At the same time, Chinese visitor arrivals into Australia increased by 17.6% to 1,131,650, making China the strongest-growing inbound market.

Indonesia and New Zealand Remain Travel Favourites

Indonesia remains Australia’s most popular overseas destination, recording 1.79 million Australian trips in the year to July 2026. The close proximity, beautiful islands, beaches and cultural experiences of destinations such as Bali, Lombok and Java continue to attract Australian travellers.

New Zealand also remains a major favourite, while continuing to be Australia’s largest international visitor market with 1.43 million arrivals. Hong Kong also experienced growth, with visitor numbers increasing by 9.2%.

More Flights and Strong Airline Demand

The continuing growth in international travel has been supported by increased airline capacity and strong passenger demand. Airlines recorded higher load factors across many major domestic routes, with Melbourne-Sydney and Adelaide-Melbourne reaching 85% capacity.

International aviation competition is also changing, with Qantas and Jetstar together carrying around one-third of international passengers travelling to and from Australia. Malaysia Airlines recorded one of the largest increases in market share, growing from 2.4% to 3.9%.

Dean Long, CEO of ATIA, said Japan was approaching a significant milestone as one of Australia’s most popular travel destinations.

“Japan is knocking on the door of one million Australian visitors a year, and that's a huge milestone for what has become one of our most popular destinations,” he said.

He added that Vietnam and China are currently leading growth across Asia, while Indonesia and New Zealand remain strong favourites among Australian travellers.

With overseas travel continuing to expand, Japan’s expected arrival at the one million Australian visitor mark signals the strength of the Asia-Pacific travel market and the enduring appetite of Australians to discover new destinations.

Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA)

Website: https://www.atia.travel/
Email: info@atia.travel
Phone: +61 2 9166 4000
Address: Level 15, 56 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

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Paddington Bear in London: Follow the Pawprints of Britain’s Favourite Bear

The Paddington Bear Experience

For generations of readers and film fans, Paddington Bear has been one of the most beloved characters associated with London. From his famous arrival at Paddington Station to his adventures with the Brown family, the marmalade-loving bear has become an enduring symbol of the capital.

Today, visitors can follow Paddington's story around London, discovering immersive attractions, colourful artwork and locations connected with the character and his adventures.

Begin the Adventure at Paddington Station

on train

A Paddington-themed London visit naturally begins at Paddington Station, where the famous bear first arrived from Peru carrying his battered suitcase and wearing his distinctive red hat.

The station remains one of the most recognisable places associated with Paddington. Visitors can find the Paddington Bear statue and take photographs beside the character before exploring the surrounding area.

It is an easy and entertaining stop for families and fans who want to connect the fictional story with the real London setting that inspired so much of Paddington's world.

See Paddington in London's West End

Paddington is Paddington: The Musical

One of the newest ways to experience Paddington is Paddington: The Musical, which brings the much-loved character to the London stage.

The production combines live performance, music and the familiar Paddington story in a West End theatrical experience. With the show having debuted in London in 2025 and plans for a Broadway production in New York, it has become another major attraction for Paddington fans visiting the capital.

Because popular theatre performances can sell quickly, visitors should consider booking tickets well in advance of their London holiday.

Discover Paddington's London Mural

Paddington mural on Sutton Walk

Fans can also find a colourful Paddington mural on Sutton Walk near London's South Bank.

Created by Peruvian artist Gisella Stapleton to celebrate the release of Paddington in Peru, the vibrant artwork provides an excellent photo opportunity and connects Paddington's London adventures with his South American origins.

South Bank itself is one of London's most enjoyable areas to explore, with attractions, restaurants, riverside walks and spectacular views across the River Thames.

Enter The Paddington Bear Experience

The Paddington Bear Experience

For an immersive Paddington adventure, head to The Paddington Bear Experience in London.

Visitors become part of an interactive story inspired by Paddington and the Brown family. The experience takes guests into familiar locations including the Brown family's home at 32 Windsor Gardens, with activities centred around helping Paddington prepare for Marmalade Day.

It is particularly suited to families and younger Paddington fans, but the detailed sets and nostalgia also make it appealing to adults who grew up with Michael Bond's books.

Make Paddington Part of Your London Holiday

The Paddington Bear Experience

Paddington attractions can easily be combined with a wider London sightseeing itinerary. After exploring Paddington Station, visitors can travel to South Bank for the mural and immersive experience before continuing along the Thames towards attractions such as the London Eye, Tate Modern and Shakespeare's Globe.

For fans of the original books, the films or the West End musical, a Paddington-themed London visit provides a charming way to see the capital through the eyes of one of Britain's best-loved fictional characters.

Whether arriving in London for the first time or returning for another visit, following Paddington's pawprints offers a fun and memorable way to discover a different side of the city.

Paddington London Attractions

Paddington Bear Experience
Website: https://www.paddingtonbearexperience.com/

Paddington: The Musical
Website: https://paddingtonmusical.com/

Visit London
Website: https://www.visitlondon.com/

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Tamar Valley Writers Festival 2026: Where Stories Feed the Soul

Tamar Valley Writers Festival

Launceston and Tasmania’s Tamar Valley will become a meeting place for readers, writers and curious minds when the Tamar Valley Writers Festival returns from 15–19 October 2026.

With this year’s evocative theme, Feed the Soul, the five-day literary celebration brings together internationally recognised authors, Australian writers, journalists, poets, playwrights and thinkers for a program of conversations, panels, workshops, readings, performances and community events.

Headlining the 2026 festival is internationally renowned food writer and television personality Nigella Lawson, whose appearance adds a delicious dimension to a festival celebrating the connection between food, storytelling and culture.

Nigella Lawson Headlines a Stellar Program

Nigella Lawson will appear in conversation with Australian food writer Alice Zaslavsky, discussing food and food writing before a book signing session. Her appearance is one of the major highlights of the 2026 program and is expected to attract visitors from across Tasmania and interstate.

The festival also features a diverse collection of prominent Australian voices, including Shaun Micallef, Siang Lu, Hannah Kent, Karen Brooks and Rebecca Armitage.

Shaun Micallef brings his distinctive humour to the festival, while Siang Lu, Hannah Kent and Karen Brooks offer audiences opportunities to explore fiction, memoir, history and contemporary storytelling. Tasmanian writer Rebecca Armitage, whose novel The Heir Apparent became a Reese Witherspoon Book Club selection, is also part of the program.

Feed the Soul Through Words and Ideas

Tamar Valley Writers Festival

The 2026 theme provides an imaginative thread running through the festival. Food, creativity, humour, memory, romance and the written word all become ways of exploring what enriches our lives.

Sessions include discussions about romance writing, crime and mystery, memoir, humour, food writing and the distinctive experience of writing about Tasmania. The program demonstrates that a writers festival can be much more than author talks, creating opportunities for audiences to consider ideas, exchange perspectives and discover new books.

For aspiring writers, the festival also provides practical opportunities. Monday 19 October features Read, Write, Publish... Writing Life, a full day of conversations, masterclasses and workshops involving writers, publishers and editors.

Launceston Becomes a Literary Destination

The main 2026 festival program is based at the University of Tasmania’s River’s Edge Building at the Inveresk campus in Launceston, while selected events extend into the wider Tamar Valley.

Launceston provides an appealing base for a literary getaway, with its historic streets, restaurants, cafes, galleries and nearby Tamar Valley attractions offering plenty to explore between festival sessions.

The destination is particularly well suited to a festival centred on food and storytelling. Launceston is recognised as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, while the surrounding Tamar Valley is known for its produce, vineyards and scenic landscapes.

A Festival for Readers, Writers and Travellers

Since 2014, the Tamar Valley Writers Festival has brought acclaimed and emerging writers, poets, journalists, podcasters and thinkers together, with a strong commitment to First Nations and diverse voices. The festival also has a significant schools program, reaching more than 600 students each festival.

For travellers, attending the festival offers a chance to combine literary discovery with a Northern Tasmania holiday. A day of stimulating conversations can be followed by exploring vineyards, enjoying local produce or discovering the scenery of the Tamar Valley.

Plan Your Tamar Valley Literary Escape

Tamar Valley Writers Festival

Whether you are an avid reader, aspiring writer, food lover or simply interested in fascinating conversations, the Tamar Valley Writers Festival 2026 offers an inviting reason to visit Launceston in spring.

From Nigella Lawson and Shaun Micallef to celebrated Australian authors and Tasmania’s own literary voices, the festival promises five days where stories, ideas, food and culture come together under the theme Feed the Soul.

Tamar Valley Writers Festival

Website: tamarvalleywritersfestival.com.au
Email: info@tamarvalleywritersfestival.com.au
Address: University of Tasmania, River’s Edge Building, Inveresk Campus, 2 Invermay Road, Launceston TAS 7248, Australia

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Newcastle Brickfest Returns for a LEGO-Filled Weekend of Family Fun

Newcastle Brickfest

Newcastle is set to become a paradise for LEGO fans when Newcastle Brickfest returns to the Newcastle Jockey Club in Broadmeadow on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September 2026.

Presented by Rainbow Bricks RLUG, Newcastle Brickfest is officially recognised as New South Wales' biggest LEGO fan event. The community-led celebration brings together more than 120 LEGO enthusiasts and exhibitors from across Australia for a spectacular weekend of creativity, imagination and brick-built entertainment.

A Brick-Built Adventure for LEGO Fans

Visitors to Newcastle Brickfest can explore hundreds of tables packed with remarkable LEGO creations. Elaborate cityscapes, Star Wars displays, moving Technic models and imaginative original creations demonstrate the extraordinary skill and creativity of Australia's LEGO fan community.

The event provides an opportunity for visitors of all ages to discover how ordinary LEGO bricks can be transformed into enormous and highly detailed models.

For dedicated LEGO enthusiasts, families and anyone who enjoys creative displays, Newcastle Brickfest offers an entertaining day out in Newcastle.

Hands-On LEGO Fun and Special Entertainment

Newcastle Brickfest

Newcastle Brickfest is more than an exhibition. Visitors can get involved in a hands-on LEGO build area, where creativity takes centre stage.

Professional cosplay appearances add another dimension to the event, while a monster raffle provides another reason to explore the festival and join in the fun.

With hundreds of displays and activities across the weekend, there is plenty to discover for children, parents, grandparents and adult LEGO collectors.

A Newcastle Community Event That Gives Back

One of the most important features of Newcastle Brickfest is its strong community focus.

Every ticket purchased helps support the John Hunter Children's Hospital Kids Club, with profits from the event donated to help local children and their families.

This makes Newcastle Brickfest more than a celebration of LEGO. It is also an opportunity for visitors to enjoy a fun family weekend while supporting an important local cause.

Sensory Session for a Quieter Experience

Newcastle Brickfest

A dedicated Sensory Session will be held on Sunday morning for visitors who require a quieter and less stimulating environment.

The session provides an alternative way for people to experience the event, helping make Newcastle Brickfest a more inclusive community celebration.

Plan Your Newcastle Brickfest Visit

Newcastle Brickfest will be held on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September 2026 at Newcastle Jockey Club, Broadmeadow.

Whether you are a lifelong LEGO collector, a family searching for things to do in Newcastle, or simply fascinated by incredible brick-built creations, Newcastle Brickfest promises a memorable weekend.

With spectacular models, interactive activities, cosplay, community spirit and fundraising for the John Hunter Children's Hospital Kids Club, Newcastle Brickfest combines creativity and entertainment with a worthwhile cause.

Newcastle Brickfest

Website: https://www.facebook.com/NewcastleBrickfest
Address: Newcastle Jockey Club, 230 Lambton Road, Broadmeadow NSW, Australia

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PARTY ANIMALS! Sydney Fringe Festival Unleashes a Wild School Holiday Dance Party

Party Animals 

Sydney families can get ready to dance, laugh and let loose this spring when Party Animals makes its NSW premiere at Sydney Fringe Festival 2026. Created by Showmen Productions, the team behind acclaimed family productions including CIRCUS The Show, The Greatest Magic Show and KABOOM!, this brand-new interactive experience promises a colourful jungle adventure for children and their grown-ups.

Party Animals will be presented at The Bunker – Fool’s Paradise, Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park, during the September and October school holidays, with performances at 9:30am on scheduled show days from 30 September to 11 October 2026.

A Wild Jungle Adventure for Young Families

Created by Justin Williams and Nathan Green, Party Animals is designed especially for children aged 2 to 10, while giving parents plenty of opportunities to join the fun.

Rather than asking young audiences to sit quietly and watch, Party Animals encourages them to move, dance, play and participate throughout the one-hour performance. The adventure follows the search for the ultimate jungle dance party, hosted by the cheeky and charismatic Marty the Monkey.

The result is more like a spectacular family disco than traditional theatre, making it an appealing first live theatre experience for younger children.

Music, Puppets, Bubbles and Plenty of Mayhem

Party Animals 

The energetic production combines chart-topping songs and retro dance favourites with handmade interactive puppets, games, bubbles, streamers and balloons.

There are also plenty of unexpected surprises, including the show's popular air-blowers that send flying toilet paper across the dance floor.

Showmen Productions co-creator Justin Williams says the aim was to create an experience that feels like a party from beginning to end, filled with colour, energy and imagination.

Families are encouraged to embrace the jungle theme by dressing up as their favourite animals, adding to the festive atmosphere at Fool’s Paradise.

Award-Winning Family Entertainment

Showmen Productions has established a strong reputation for creating innovative family entertainment in Australia and internationally. Its productions have received major festival recognition, including Overall Best Children's Show and Weekly Best Children's Show awards at Fringe World, multiple Weekly Best Children's Show awards at Adelaide Fringe, Best Kid's Show at the Melbourne Magic Festival and Best Kid's Show at Sydney Fringe.

With Party Animals, the company continues its focus on creating shared experiences where children and adults can enjoy live entertainment together.

Plan a Sydney School Holiday Adventure

Party Animals 

Party Animals runs at The Bunker – Fool’s Paradise, Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park NSW, from 30 September to 11 October 2026, with no shows on Mondays. Performances are scheduled for 9:30am.

Tickets are on sale now, with full-price tickets $29, child 12+ and concession tickets $25, Deadly Tix $23 and group tickets for 10 or more $23.

For tickets and information visit: https://sydneyfringe.com/events/party-animals/

Showmen Productions

Website: https://www.showmenproductions.com.au/partyanimals
Address: Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park NSW, Australia
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/partyanimalsdisco/
Instagram: @PartyAnimalsDisco
Hashtag: #partyanimalsdisco

Sydney Fringe Festival

Website: https://sydneyfringe.com/
Event: Party Animals
Venue: The Bunker – Fool’s Paradise, Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park NSW
Dates: 30 September – 11 October 2026
Time: 9:30am daily on scheduled performance days
No shows: Mondays

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Te Pae Christchurch: A World-Class Convention Centre at the Heart of Ōtautahi

Te Pae Christchurch

A Landmark Venue for New Zealand Business Events

In the heart of Christchurch, Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre has established itself as one of New Zealand's leading destinations for conferences, conventions, exhibitions, meetings, banquets and major events.

Located on Oxford Terrace beside the Ōtākaro Avon River, Te Pae combines contemporary architecture, flexible event spaces and a strong sense of Canterbury identity. Its central location places delegates within easy walking distance of hotels, restaurants, retail, arts and entertainment, while Christchurch International Airport is approximately 15 kilometres away.

Te Pae was one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026, where its team showcased Christchurch as a premier destination for conferences and business events. The venue was represented on stand 168 alongside other Christchurch and Canterbury operators.

Flexible Spaces for Events of Every Scale

Designed as Christchurch's gathering place, Te Pae offers an impressive range of spaces capable of hosting events from intimate meetings through to major international conferences.

The venue features 24 meeting rooms, a tiered auditorium seating up to 1,364 people, flexible exhibition facilities and a riverside banquet space overlooking the Ōtākaro Avon River. Its exhibition hall provides approximately 2,800 square metres of space and can be divided into separate areas to accommodate different event formats.

This flexibility allows organisers to bring conferences, trade exhibitions, keynote presentations, networking functions, gala dinners and entertainment together under one roof.

A Venue Designed Around the Delegate Experience

Te Pae Christchurch

Te Pae's location is one of its major advantages. Delegates can step outside the convention centre and explore central Christchurch, with accommodation, restaurants, cafés, galleries, shops and attractions nearby.

The venue also works closely with Christchurch and Canterbury suppliers to incorporate local cultural welcomes, experiences, entertainment, lighting, acoustic design and other services into events. This enables organisers to create programmes that showcase the destination rather than simply providing a place to meet.

Local Flavours and Modern Event Technology

Food is an important part of the Te Pae experience, with menus inspired by Canterbury produce and New Zealand ingredients. The venue also provides professional audiovisual and technology services, exhibition support and dedicated event planning assistance.

Its experienced events team can help with everything from initial planning and logistics through to security, crowd management and event delivery, giving organisers access to specialist knowledge throughout the planning process.

A Standout Christchurch Conference Venue

Te Pae Christchurch

Te Pae Christchurch is particularly well suited to organisers searching for a modern conference centre in Christchurch, a New Zealand convention venue, a large exhibition venue or a distinctive location for corporate events.

Its appearance at MEETINGS 2026 highlighted the venue's continuing role in New Zealand's business events sector. Te Pae was also recognised at the 2026 tradeshow with the Best Regional Stand award, adding another achievement to its growing profile.

For international delegates, Te Pae provides a convenient gateway to Christchurch and the wider South Island, combining sophisticated event infrastructure with opportunities to experience Canterbury's landscapes, food, culture and attractions.

Whether hosting an international congress, corporate conference, trade exhibition, gala dinner or business meeting, Te Pae Christchurch offers an impressive combination of scale, flexibility, location and local character.

Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre

Contact person: Gillian Officer, Director of Business Development
Phone: +64 27 222 9725
Email: gofficer@tepae.co.nz
General phone: +64 3 266 1400
General email: info@tepae.co.nz
Website: www.tepae.co.nz
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tepaechristchurch/
Address: 188 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand

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Three Countries, One Destination: A New Tourism Alliance Takes Shape in ASEAN

Chuk Chumno Cambodia, Phonemaly Inthaphome Laos,

and Thi Hoa Nguyen Vietnam

Cambodia, Lao PDR and Viet Nam are moving closer to creating a more seamless regional tourism experience through an ambitious “Three Countries, One Destination” initiative designed to encourage travellers to explore all three neighbouring Southeast Asian nations.

The proposed tourism alliance could make multi-country holidays across Cambodia, Lao PDR and Viet Nam easier and more attractive for international visitors while strengthening tourism cooperation throughout the region.

One Journey Across Three Countries

Tourism ministers from Cambodia, Lao PDR and Viet Nam are meeting in Ho Chi Minh City to assess progress on plans for the “Three Countries, One Destination” programme.

At the heart of the initiative is a joint action plan encouraging more intra-regional travel. A key proposal is the development of tourism packages featuring three-day itineraries covering Viet Nam, Cambodia and Lao PDR.

Such packages could appeal to travellers looking to experience several distinctive Southeast Asian cultures within one holiday. From historic cities and cultural attractions to cuisine, festivals and natural landscapes, the three countries offer complementary travel experiences.

Simpler Travel Across Borders

Cambodia

One of the most significant ambitions is to make cross-border travel less complicated for tourists.

The countries are exploring a cross-border visa programme that could encourage wider international visitation, while also working towards smoother movement between their borders.

Simplified immigration procedures could be particularly valuable for travellers undertaking multi-country road trips and regional itineraries.

The Lao Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism and the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism have also signed a memorandum of understanding on tourism cooperation, reinforcing the commitment to closer collaboration.

Culture, Food and Events Connect the Region

The proposed initiative will extend beyond traditional tourism promotion.

Familiarisation trips, cultural celebrations, sporting activities and food events are expected to form part of the promotional programme, with the private sector encouraged to participate.

This approach could provide international visitors with opportunities to discover the three countries through authentic local experiences while encouraging tourism businesses, hotels, attractions, restaurants and tour operators to work together across national borders.

Stronger Tourism Cooperation

Laos

The Cambodia-Lao PDR tourism cooperation agreement also focuses on improving human resources and attracting greater investment to support tourism activities between the two countries.

Another practical objective is making it easier for people to drive between Cambodia and Lao PDR through simplified immigration procedures at border crossings.

For independent travellers and touring visitors, easier road travel could open new possibilities for exploring destinations beyond the major tourist gateways.

A New Way to Experience Southeast Asia

The “Three Countries, One Destination” concept represents an important step towards greater regional tourism cooperation in Southeast Asia.

By combining Cambodia, Lao PDR and Viet Nam into a more connected tourism proposition, the initiative could encourage longer stays, multi-destination holidays and deeper cultural connections.

For travellers planning their next Southeast Asia holiday, the prospect of experiencing three fascinating countries as part of one connected journey offers an exciting new reason to explore the region.

Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office

Vietnam

Website: https://mekongtourism.org/
Email: info@mekongtourism.org
Phone: +66 2 612 4150-1
Address: c/o Department of Tourism,6th Floor, Government Complex Building C,
Chaeng Watthana Road, Thung Song Hong,
Lak Si, Bangkok 10210, Thailand

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Ski for Free in Jasper: Limited-Time Winter Offer Includes Three Days at Marmot Basin

Jasper is calling winter travellers with a limited-time Ski For Free offer that combines a stay in the spectacular Canadian Rockies with three days of lift tickets at Marmot Basin for guests and a companion.

Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and the spectacular landscapes of Jasper National Park, Jasper provides an unforgettable winter escape for skiers, snowboarders and travellers looking to experience the Canadian Rockies during the colder months.

A Winter Escape with Skiing Included

The Ski For Free package makes it easier to experience a Jasper ski holiday by including three days of lift tickets at Marmot Basin for two people.

Guests can spend their days exploring the slopes before returning to Jasper to enjoy the town's welcoming après-ski atmosphere. As the sun disappears behind the Rocky Mountains, the experience continues with opportunities to relax, dine and enjoy the distinctive character of this mountain destination.

The offer is designed for stays of four nights or more, providing time to combine skiing with the many other winter experiences available in Jasper.

Discover Marmot Basin

Marmot Basin

Marmot Basin is the destination at the heart of this winter offer. Located in Jasper National Park, the ski area provides a spectacular setting for enjoying the Canadian Rockies on snow.

Three days of lift tickets give guests the opportunity to make the most of their stay rather than simply fitting a single day on the slopes into a short getaway.

For travellers planning a Canadian ski holiday, combining accommodation in Jasper with skiing at Marmot Basin offers an appealing way to experience both the mountain resort and the wider destination.

Jasper in Winter

Jasper National Park

Jasper is much more than a ski destination. Winter transforms the surrounding Canadian Rockies into a landscape of snow-covered forests, frozen waterways and dramatic mountain scenery.

Visitors can combine their time on the slopes with sightseeing, dining and exploring the natural beauty of Jasper National Park. The result is a winter holiday that blends outdoor adventure with the relaxed atmosphere of a mountain town.

Whether travelling as a couple, with friends or with family, Jasper offers plenty of reasons to stay longer and experience more of the Canadian Rockies.

Book the Limited-Time Ski For Free Offer

The Ski For Free package must be booked by November 22, 2026, while availability lasts.

The offer is valid for stays of four nights or more between November 20, 2026 and May 2, 2027. Blackout dates apply, and the package is subject to availability.

Travellers considering a Jasper winter holiday should check the full terms and conditions before booking.

Pursuit

Website: https://www.pursuitcollection.com/
Email: Sales@PursuitCollection.com
Address: 1401 17th Street, Suite 1400, Denver, Colorado 80202, USA

Marmot Basin

Website: https://www.skimarmot.com/
Address: Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada

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