Season Event Design: Creating Stylish and Memorable Business Events in Christchurch

Season Event Design

A successful corporate event should create an atmosphere that guests remember long after the final presentation has finished. In Christchurch, Season Event Design creates stylish, polished event spaces designed around the people, purpose and personality of each occasion.

Listed by Business Events Industry Aotearoa as a Christchurch and Canterbury business events service, Season Event Design specialises in high-end corporate events. The company was also one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026, held at the New Zealand International Convention Centre in Auckland on 17 and 18 June 2026.

Designing Spaces with Personality

Season Event Design approaches an event space as a three-dimensional expression of a brand. Its team works with clients to create environments that reflect their business, people and event objectives.

The company provides complete event design services as well as individual elements for clients who need a particular component brought to life. From the initial concept through to construction and installation, the team works to ensure that the finished space is cohesive, practical and visually engaging.

In-Season: Contemporary Design with a Local Connection

Season Event Design

Season Event Design draws inspiration from the Canterbury region, combining contemporary styling with natural materials, fresh seasonal florals and living plants.

A strong focus on sustainability is incorporated into its approach, with high-end finishes balanced by thoughtful design choices intended to reduce the environmental footprint of an event.

This can create a sophisticated setting while retaining a sense of connection to Christchurch and its surrounding region.

Seasonal: Fresh Ideas and Bespoke Details

The team is continually developing new event décor concepts and searching for fresh ideas to keep corporate events distinctive.

Season also works with a network of local fabricators, painters and seamstresses, supporting local creative businesses while producing bespoke pieces. Custom builds can provide an event with details that are designed specifically for the occasion rather than selected from standard hire ranges.

Well-Seasoned Event Experience

Season Event Design

With more than 20 years of industry experience and qualified design expertise, the Season Event Design team brings together creative thinking and practical event production.

Its services include themed events, stage décor, event florals, table styling, entrance features, signage and displays, event drapery, decorative lighting, food station décor, cocktail and lounge furniture, photo backdrops, plant hire and expo design and build.

Season-to-Taste: Transforming Event Venues

Season Event Design works with corporate clients to present venues at their best and create distinctive environments for conferences, gala dinners, brand activations and other business events.

The company is also a recommended supplier to Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, extending its role within Christchurch's business events sector.

For event organisers planning a conference, gala dinner, corporate celebration or exhibition in Christchurch, Season Event Design offers a combination of creative design, local collaboration and practical event experience.

Season Event Design

Season Event Design

Contact: Esther Riley
Address: 2 Stanley Street, Sydenham, Christchurch, New Zealand
Phone: +64 3 391 0765
Email: info@seasoneventdesign.co.nz
Website: https://seasoneventdesign.co.nz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seasoneventdesign/

For more travel, tourism and business events news from around the world, visit the daily online edition of The Holiday and Travel Magazine at https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/.

Los Angeles History 2000 to the Present: A City Always Reinventing Itself

Walt Disney Concert Hall

Los Angeles entered the new millennium as a global capital of entertainment, culture and creativity. Since 2000, the City of Angels has continued to evolve through remarkable architectural landmarks, world-class museums, major sporting events and an increasingly diverse cultural identity.

From the opening of Walt Disney Concert Hall to the arrival of the Academy Museum and the global spotlight of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, this period has added remarkable new chapters to the history of Los Angeles.

2000 to 2009: A New Cultural Era

The twenty-first century began with East Hollywood being designated America's first official Thai Town in 2000, reflecting the multicultural character that has become central to Los Angeles.

Getty Villa, Photo: Yuri Hasegawa

In 2001, the Kodak Theatre, now the Dolby Theatre, opened in Hollywood, while Hollywood and Highland created a major new entertainment destination. The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels opened in Downtown Los Angeles in 2002.

One of the city's most celebrated modern landmarks arrived in 2003 when Walt Disney Concert Hall opened. Designed by Frank Gehry, the striking building became an architectural icon and home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

The Getty Villa and Griffith Observatory reopened following major renovations in 2006. In 2008, L.A. LIVE and the GRAMMY Museum opened in Downtown Los Angeles, adding new dimensions to the city's entertainment and cultural scene.

2010 to 2019: Los Angeles Expands Its Global Influence

Jurassic World - The Ride

Photo: Universal Studios Hollywood

The 2010s saw Los Angeles strengthen its reputation as an international destination for arts, entertainment, food and major events.

The city continued developing its museums, neighbourhoods and creative industries while remaining one of the world's most important centres for filmmaking and popular culture. In 2019, Universal Studios Hollywood opened Jurassic World: The Ride, while Los Angeles celebrated major anniversaries at institutions including UCLA, the Petersen Automotive Museum and the Hollywood Pantages Theatre.

2020 to 2021: New Landmarks in a Changing City

SoFi Stadium

In 2020, SoFi Stadium opened in Inglewood as the home of the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers. The enormous indoor-outdoor venue added another major destination for international sport and entertainment.

The year was also memorable for Los Angeles sport, with the Lakers winning their 17th NBA championship and the Dodgers claiming their seventh World Series title.

In 2021, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures opened on Museum Row. Designed by architect Renzo Piano, the museum celebrates the history and global influence of filmmaking and provides visitors with a fascinating connection to the city's entertainment heritage.

2022 to 2024: New Leadership and Major Attractions

Intuit Dome

In 2022, Karen Bass became the first woman and second Black mayor of Los Angeles, marking an important milestone in the city's political history.

In 2024, Intuit Dome opened in Inglewood as the new home of the Los Angeles Clippers. The state-of-the-art arena added another major sports and entertainment venue to the region.

The year was also significant for Los Angeles sport, with the Dodgers winning their eighth World Series and the LA Galaxy claiming their record sixth MLS Cup.

2025 to 2026: Los Angeles Takes the World Stage

Hollywood Bowl

Los Angeles entered 2025 with major cultural milestones, including the centennial of the Los Angeles Central Library and the 90th anniversary of Griffith Observatory. The Dodgers then won their second consecutive World Series.

In 2026, Los Angeles has entered an extraordinary new chapter. The David Geffen Galleries at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art opened to the public in May, adding 110,000 square feet of gallery space and creating a major new cultural landmark.

The city also welcomed the FIFA World Cup 2026, with eight matches attracting more than 560,000 fans across the tournament. Los Angeles is now looking ahead to Super Bowl LXI in 2027 and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The Ever-Changing City of Los Angeles

For travellers, exploring modern Los Angeles means discovering a city where history, creativity and innovation continually intersect. From Hollywood and Downtown LA to its museums, sporting venues and diverse neighbourhoods, every visit reveals another chapter.

With major cultural openings and international events continuing to reshape the destination, the history of Los Angeles is not simply something to look back upon. It is still being written.

Discover Los Angeles

Website: www.discoverlosangeles.com
Email: info@latourism.org
Phone: +1 213 624 7300
Address: 633 West 5th Street, Los Angeles, California 90071, USA

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Cindy Poole Glass Artist: Discover Esperance Through Art, Glass and Sustainability

Cindy Poole

A Unique Glass Art Experience in Esperance

Visitors exploring Esperance in Western Australia can discover a different side of the region at Cindy Poole Glass Artist, where contemporary glass art, local stories and sustainable design come together in a working gallery and studio.

Located near Pink Lake and just off Great Ocean Drive, the gallery showcases handcrafted kiln-formed glass artworks inspired by the landscapes, wildlife and natural beauty of Esperance. The studio has developed its glass practice since 1995, transforming glass through heat, layering and detailed craftsmanship.

Discover the Art of Kiln-Formed Glass

A visit to Cindy Poole Glass Artist goes beyond browsing a traditional gallery. Visitors can explore jewellery, sculptural artworks, homewares and other contemporary glass creations while learning about the techniques used to transform raw and reclaimed materials.

The gallery's collections include glass jewellery, sculptures, wearable art and functional pieces, with recurring themes drawn from nature and the Esperance environment. Some works incorporate reclaimed architectural glass and recycled glass bottles, giving discarded materials a new purpose through creative design.

Sustainability Meets Creative Design

Esperance Whale Tail. Public artwork
by Cindy Poole & Jason Wooldridge

Sustainability is an important part of Cindy Poole's glass practice. Reclaimed and recycled glass can be transformed into attractive objects for everyday use, demonstrating how materials that might otherwise become waste can be given a new life.

The approach provides travellers with an opportunity to discover Australian-made art while learning about creative reuse, circular design and the possibilities of sustainable craftsmanship. The gallery experience explores the processes and stories behind the artworks and the role of recycled glass in the studio.

Take a Piece of Esperance Home

For visitors wanting a memorable souvenir of Western Australia, the gallery offers a wide selection of handcrafted pieces, including jewellery, vessels, tableware, sculptures and decorative artworks.

Nature provides a strong source of inspiration, with works featuring themes such as whale tails, leafy sea dragons, ocean forms and the Esperance landscape. Cindy Poole has also contributed to public art projects in the region, including the Esperance Whale Tail.

Get Hands-On with a Glass Workshop

Cindy Poole

Travellers can take their experience further by booking a guided studio tour or hands-on workshop. The Discover experience provides a behind-the-scenes look at the gallery and studio, including the design process, equipment and skills involved in creating kiln-fired glass art.

For those wanting to create their own keepsake, Discover and Create experiences provide an opportunity to participate in the making process and take home a personal glass memento of an Esperance holiday.

For travellers exploring Australia's Golden Outback, Cindy Poole Glass Artist offers a creative Esperance attraction where art, local storytelling, craftsmanship and sustainability meet.

Cindy Poole Glass Artist

Website: https://www.cindypoole.com.au/
Email: sales@cindypoole.com.au
Phone: +61 497 714 059
Address: 23 Longbottom Lane, Esperance WA 6450, Australia
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 1.00pm to 4.00pm; private appointments available by arrangement.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

The Coffee Harvesters of Indonesia: Discovering the Patience Behind Every Bean

The Coffee Harvesters of Indonesia

For travellers who love coffee, Indonesia offers the chance to discover the drink at its source. Across the country's volcanic highlands and tropical plantations, coffee is grown in landscapes ranging from the mountains of Sumatra and Java to Bali, Sulawesi and Flores.

A visit to an Indonesian coffee plantation can reveal something that is easy to overlook when ordering a cup in a cafe: great coffee begins with decisions made in the field.

One of the most important decisions is knowing when to pick.

The Moment a Coffee Cherry Is Ready

Coffee cherries do not all ripen at the same time. On a single branch, green, yellow and deep red cherries can appear together.

For coffee harvesters, this creates a simple but demanding task. Rather than taking every cherry at once, ripe fruit can be selected while cherries that have not reached the desired stage are left on the plant for another picking.

For visitors walking through a coffee plantation, watching this process provides an insight into the patience and experience behind coffee production.

The difference between a cherry that is ready and one that needs more time may appear small to an inexperienced observer. For someone who has spent years working among coffee plants, the colour, appearance and maturity of the fruit help guide the decision.

Experience Indonesia's Coffee Regions

The Coffee Harvesters of Indonesia

Indonesia is one of the world's major coffee-producing countries, with distinctive coffee-growing regions spread across the archipelago. The country's mountainous terrain, tropical climate and fertile volcanic soils contribute to a wide variety of coffee-growing environments.

Travellers can explore coffee experiences in places such as the Gayo Highlands of Aceh, Kintamani in Bali, Tana Toraja in Sulawesi and the highlands of Flores.

Each destination offers something different. Gayo is renowned for its coffee-growing highlands, Kintamani is associated with Arabica coffee grown alongside fruit trees, while Toraja and Flores offer their own distinctive coffee traditions and landscapes.

See Coffee Being Harvested by Hand

For tourists, one of the most rewarding ways to understand Indonesian coffee is to visit a plantation during the harvest season.

Indonesia's official tourism website highlights coffee tourism experiences where visitors can learn about cultivation, harvesting and traditional processing. In the Gayo Highlands, for example, visitors can experience coffee harvesting and traditional processing.

In Rigis Jaya, Lampung, visitors can follow the journey from coffee cultivation and harvesting through processing, roasting and tasting. The coffee village provides an opportunity to meet local farmers and learn about the work involved in producing Robusta coffee.

These experiences turn coffee tourism into more than simply drinking a cup. They allow travellers to understand the people, landscapes and skills behind the finished product.

From Cherry to Coffee Cup

The Coffee Harvesters of Indonesia

Once coffee cherries have been harvested, the work continues. Depending on the region and production method, the fruit undergoes processing, drying, hulling and roasting before the beans are ready to brew.

Some Indonesian communities continue to use traditional processing methods passed from one generation to the next. At Wae Rebo on Flores, for example, coffee is traditionally processed by hand, giving visitors an opportunity to see how coffee moves from freshly picked cherries towards a finished drink.

For a traveller, seeing these stages can completely change the way a morning coffee tastes.

Travel Into Indonesia's Coffee Country

Coffee tourism can also take visitors beyond the major cities and well-known tourist attractions. Plantation visits introduce travellers to mountain villages, rural communities and agricultural landscapes that may otherwise remain outside a conventional Indonesian itinerary.

In some destinations, visitors can combine plantation walks with coffee tasting, roasting demonstrations or hands-on harvesting experiences. Activities vary between destinations, so checking arrangements with local operators before travelling is recommended.

When visiting working plantations, travellers should follow local instructions, avoid damaging coffee plants and ask permission before photographing farmers or workers.

The Patience Behind Every Bean

The Coffee Harvesters of Indonesia

The most memorable lesson from Indonesia's coffee plantations may be one of patience.

A coffee harvester sees a branch differently from a visitor. One cherry may be ready today, another tomorrow and another several days later. The decision to wait is part of the craft.

For travellers, discovering this process adds a human dimension to Indonesia's famous coffee culture. Behind every cup is a landscape, a farmer, a harvest and thousands of small decisions made at exactly the right moment.

The next time you enjoy an Indonesian coffee, remember the person in the plantation who knew which cherry to pick today and which one to leave behind.

Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia

Website: https://www.indonesia.travel/
Email: info@kemenpar.go.id
Phone: +62 21 3838000
WhatsApp Contact Centre: +62 811 8956 767
Address: Sapta Pesona Building, Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat No. 17, Gambir, Jakarta Pusat, Jakarta 10110, Indonesia.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Hui Pass Makes Delegate Travel Easier at Auckland Business Events

Hui Pass 

Getting hundreds of delegates around a destination can be one of the practical challenges of organising a conference or business event. Auckland Convention Bureau and Auckland Transport have introduced Hui Pass, a simple public transport option designed specifically for delegates attending business events in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.

Auckland Convention Bureau was one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026 and used the event to showcase Auckland’s business events offering, including the new Hui Pass initiative.

Five Days of Unlimited Auckland Travel

Hui Pass is a public transport travel card created for conferences, meetings and business events in Auckland. Each card provides five consecutive days of unlimited travel on Auckland buses and trains from the first time it is used.

The pass costs NZ$20 per card and is available to business event organisers through bulk purchase, with a minimum order of 50 cards. AirportLink bus services are included, making the pass particularly useful for delegates travelling between Auckland Airport, accommodation and the city.

Ferry services are not included, with standard ferry fares applying separately. After the five-day period, delegates can top up their cards and continue using them with standard public transport fares.

A Simple Solution for Conference Delegates

Launch of Hui Pass 

Hui Pass can make it easier for delegates to travel between hotels, conference venues, restaurants and attractions without having to arrange individual transport for every journey.

For event organisers, the cards can be incorporated into delegate registration, sponsorship packages or event experiences. Organisers can also customise the front of the card with event artwork, conference branding or sponsor branding for an additional fee.

The five-day format also gives delegates the freedom to explore Auckland independently before or after conference sessions. From central Auckland, delegates can use public transport to discover different neighbourhoods, dining areas and visitor experiences.

Supporting More Sustainable Business Events

Encouraging delegates to use public transport can support sustainability objectives by reducing dependence on private transfers and individual vehicles.

Hui Pass also reflects Auckland’s continuing investment in public transport. Auckland Convention Bureau highlights the City Rail Link as part of the city’s evolving transport network, with the rail link scheduled to open in late 2026.

For conference organisers, the result is a practical delegate benefit that can also contribute to a more connected and sustainable Auckland business event.

How Organisers Can Order Hui Pass

Sample Hui Card

Business event organisers and professional conference organisers can purchase Hui Pass through Auckland Transport. Orders should be placed at least four weeks before the event.

The process involves estimating delegate numbers, submitting an order request, receiving confirmation and invoice details, and having the cards prepared and couriered to the nominated New Zealand address for distribution before or during the event.

Auckland Convention Bureau

Contact: Ken Pereira, Head of Business Events
Phone: +64 21 142 2245
Email: meet@aucklandnz.com
Website: https://aucklandconventionbureau.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/auckland-convention-bureau/home/

Auckland Transport

Website: https://at.govt.nz/
Hui Pass information: https://at.govt.nz/bus-train-ferry/hui-pass
Phone: +64 9 355 3553
Website: https://at.govt.nz/

For more travel, tourism and business events news from around the world, visit the daily online edition of The Holiday and Travel Magazine at https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/.

Three More Captivating Landscapes in Inland NSW You Need to See

Bald Rock National Park

Inland NSW is filled with remarkable scenery, from enormous granite formations and vast inland waterways to mysterious natural rock landscapes. These three destinations offer unforgettable experiences for travellers exploring the New England High Country.

1) Bald Rock National Park, Tenterfield

Rising more than 200 metres above the surrounding bushland, Bald Rock is Australia's largest granite monolith. Around 250 million years old, the enormous rock stretches about 750 metres long and 500 metres wide, creating a spectacular landscape in Bald Rock National Park.

A challenging walking track leads to the summit, where visitors can enjoy sweeping views across the surrounding countryside. Keep watch for rock wallabies and other native wildlife along the way.

Where to stay: Gabarraa Luxury Escape offers an architectural timber tiny home experience on a farm, while Tenterfield provides dining options including the award-winning Stonefruit wine bar.

2) Lake Copeton, Inverell

Lake Copeton

Lake Copeton is one of the largest inland dams in NSW, covering about 46 square kilometres in the Gwydir Valley. On calm, clear days, the enormous lake can create a mirror-like reflection of the surrounding sky and hills.

The lake is a popular destination for fishing, sailing, waterskiing, canoeing, swimming and other water activities. Visitors can also enjoy bushwalking, camping and picnicking, while the lookout beside the 113 metre-high dam wall provides impressive views.

Where to stay: Reflections Copeton Waters Holiday Park sits on 900 hectares beside the lake, with cabins, powered and unpowered camping sites, a playground and splashpad.

3) Australian Standing Stones, Glen Innes

The Australian Standing Stone

In the New England High Country near Glen Innes, enormous granite stones create a distinctive landscape reminiscent of ancient stone circles. Some of the formations stand more than five metres high, while natural erosion over thousands of years has shaped their unusual forms.

The Australian Standing Stones form part of the National Celtic Monument and provide a fascinating place to explore the region's granite landscape.

Where to stay: Tui Lodge offers farm-stay accommodation on a 12-hectare property populated by alpacas, goats, sheep and other animals. Nearby Glen Gowrie Distillery in the Furracabad Valley provides another local experience.

Explore Inland NSW

From the enormous granite walls of Bald Rock to the sparkling waters of Lake Copeton and the unusual formations of the Australian Standing Stones, these three destinations showcase the extraordinary variety of inland NSW landscapes.

Destination NSW

Website: https://www.visitnsw.com/
Phone: 1800 002 234

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Disney’s Frozen The Broadway Musical Brings a Magical Adventure to Newcastle

Disney’s Frozen The Broadway Musical

A Magical Adventure to Warm Your Heart

Newcastle families and theatre lovers can step into the magical world of Arendelle when Disney’s Frozen The Broadway Musical arrives at Civic Theatre Newcastle from 10 to 25 October 2026.

Presented by The Very Popular Theatre Company, this spectacular stage production brings the beloved Disney animated story to life with Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff and Sven at the centre of an unforgettable theatrical adventure. The production combines familiar songs, new stage numbers, colourful costumes, impressive sets and special effects to create an experience designed to delight audiences of all ages.

Step Into the World of Arendelle

Disney’s Frozen The Broadway Musical

Frozen tells the story of sisters Elsa and Anna and their extraordinary journey of family, courage and love. When Elsa’s magical powers place Arendelle in danger, Anna sets out on an adventure that takes her into the mountains and towards an unexpected discovery about what truly matters.

Audiences can look forward to much-loved songs including Let It Go, Do You Want to Build a Snowman? and For the First Time in Forever, alongside additional songs written especially for the Broadway stage version.

With spectacular stagecraft helping transport audiences from Newcastle to the icy landscapes of Arendelle, Disney’s Frozen The Broadway Musical offers an opportunity for both longtime Frozen fans and newcomers to experience the story in a completely different way.

A Special Newcastle Theatre Experience

Disney’s Frozen The Broadway Musical

The Newcastle production is staged by The Very Popular Theatre Company, a Newcastle-based theatre company established in 2006 with a focus on bridging the gap between community and professional theatre in the Hunter region. Its productions encompass musical theatre, comedy, reimagined classics and other popular theatrical styles.

The season includes evening and matinee performances across October, making it possible for families, visitors and theatre enthusiasts to choose a performance that suits their Newcastle itinerary. The production runs for approximately two hours and 20 minutes, including a 20-minute interval, and is recommended for audiences aged five and over.

A special Auslan-interpreted and fundraising performance is scheduled for Saturday 24 October at 1pm, with $10 from every ticket sold donated to the John Hunter Children’s Hospital School.

Plan a Newcastle Theatre Visit

Disney’s Frozen The Broadway Musical

Civic Theatre Newcastle is located at 375 Hunter Street in the heart of Newcastle. The theatre provides an ideal starting point for a city visit, with the Honeysuckle Foreshore, restaurants, cafes and other Newcastle attractions within easy reach.

Disney’s Frozen The Broadway Musical is scheduled for performances from Saturday 10 October through Sunday 25 October 2026, with tickets and special offers available through the official production and Civic Theatre websites.

For families looking for things to do in Newcastle, or visitors seeking a memorable theatre experience during an October getaway, a journey to Arendelle promises an evening filled with music, adventure, laughter and the enduring message of the power of family.

The Very Popular Theatre Company

Website: https://frozennewcastle.com.au/
Email: admin@verypopulartheatreco.com.au
Phone: 1300 367 852
Address: 144 Fern Street, Islington, NSW 2296, Australia

Civic Theatre Newcastle

Website: https://civictheatrenewcastle.com.au/
Email: civicboxoffice@ncc.nsw.gov.au
Phone: (02) 4929 1977
Address: 375 Hunter Street, Newcastle, NSW 2300, Australia

For tickets and current performance information, visit the official Frozen Newcastle website or Civic Theatre Newcastle.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Selwyn NZ: Where Business Events Meet Beautiful Canterbury Surroundings

Lincoln Event Centre

For business event organisers looking for a destination that combines professional facilities with the natural beauty of Canterbury, Selwyn NZ offers a refreshing alternative to traditional city venues.

Located just 20 minutes from Christchurch, Selwyn provides a diverse collection of venues suitable for meetings, conferences, exhibitions, incentive events, team-building activities and celebrations. Selwyn NZ was one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026, New Zealand's leading business events trade show, showcasing the district's opportunities to the international business events community.

Flexible Venues for Business Events

Selwyn's business events venues range from modern purpose-built facilities and community centres to boutique rural venues, wineries and distinctive agricultural settings.

The district's venues can accommodate groups ranging from intimate meetings of just a few people through to large-scale events for up to 1,000 attendees. Many venues provide commercial kitchens, complimentary on-site parking and essential audiovisual equipment including projectors, screens and sound systems.

This flexibility makes Selwyn suitable for everything from executive strategy sessions and board meetings to conferences, gala dinners, exhibitions and corporate celebrations.

Conferences Close to Christchurch

Straight 8 Estate

One of Selwyn's attractions for conference organisers is its convenient location. The district provides a setting away from the distractions of central Christchurch while remaining close enough to make access straightforward for delegates.

Lincoln Event Centre, for example, is around 35 minutes from Christchurch city centre and 25 minutes from Christchurch Airport. The purpose-built facility features spaces for conferences, exhibitions, gala dinners, annual meetings and large functions.

Other venues throughout Selwyn provide different experiences, including the modern Te Ara Ātea in Rolleston and the West Melton Community Centre, offering organisers a choice of facilities and locations.

Business Events with a Sense of Place

Beyond the meeting room, Selwyn gives delegates opportunities to experience the landscapes, food, wine and outdoor activities of Canterbury.

The district stretches across the Canterbury Plains towards the Southern Alps and includes fertile farmland, braided rivers, high-country landscapes and distinctive rural communities. Delegates can complement a conference programme with activities such as hiking, cycling, golf, skiing, jet boating, farm experiences, food and wine activities and stargazing.

For incentive groups and executive retreats, Selwyn also offers boutique venues and high-country accommodation where delegates can experience a very different side of New Zealand.

A Destination for Memorable Events

Lincoln Event Centre

Whether planning a small corporate meeting, a multi-day conference, an exhibition, gala dinner, incentive programme or team-building experience, Selwyn combines practical event facilities with the character and open spaces of rural Canterbury.

For organisers seeking a business events destination near Christchurch that offers flexibility, natural surroundings and a wide range of experiences, Selwyn provides plenty of possibilities.

Selwyn NZ

Contact: Shay Robinson
Address: 2 Norman Kirk Drive, Rolleston, New Zealand
Phone: +64 3 325 3288
Email: shay.robinson@selwyn.govt.nz
Website: https://selwyn.nz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/selwynnewzealand/

Shay Robinson has been associated with Selwyn District Council's economic development and visitor economy work.

For more travel, tourism and business events news from around the world, visit the daily online edition of The Holiday and Travel Magazine at https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/.

Thailand Opens New Creative Tourism Hub in Phuket

Thailand Creative & Design Center Phuket (TCDC Phuket)

TCDC Phuket Creates a New Tourism Lab for Creative Travel

Thailand has opened a new creative tourism hub in Phuket, with the launch of the Thailand Creative & Design Center Phuket (TCDC Phuket) on 7 August 2026. Located in the historic Chartered Bank House, the new centre is designed as a “Tourism Lab” where creativity, design and innovation can help shape new tourism products, services and visitor experiences.

The initiative is a collaboration between the Creative Economy Agency (CEA) and the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation, expanding Thailand’s TCDC creative network into one of the country’s most important tourism destinations.

A New Creative Space in Historic Phuket

TCDC Phuket gives the historic Chartered Bank House a new public role while retaining its heritage value. The centre provides facilities for learning, experimentation, exhibitions, networking and creative development.

Visitors, local communities, entrepreneurs, young people and creative professionals can access knowledge, tools and networks designed to encourage new ideas and business opportunities.

The Tourism Lab concept places particular emphasis on using Phuket’s existing cultural heritage, natural resources, people and tourism expertise to create new value through design and innovation.

Supporting Phuket's Tourism Economy

TCDC Phuket

According to the Creative Economy Agency, Phuket welcomes more than 14 million visitors each year and generates more than 540 billion Thai baht in tourism revenue.

TCDC Phuket is intended to strengthen the creative ecosystem surrounding this major tourism economy, helping tourism businesses and creative entrepreneurs develop products and experiences that respond to changing visitor interests and international markets.

The centre also provides opportunities for collaboration between tourism operators, designers, artists, local businesses and communities, supporting the development of Phuket as a destination where culture and creativity are increasingly connected with travel.

Learn, Live and Belong in Phuket

The opening was celebrated with the “เปิดเริน (Learn) Fest”, held from 7 to 11 August under the theme “Learn, Live, Belong”.

The programme included exhibitions, workshops, discussion sessions, creative markets, neighbourhood activities, contemporary art and music performances. These events introduced the new centre while highlighting Phuket’s cultural identity and creative talent.

Exhibitions included “From Chartered House to TCDC Phuket”, exploring the building’s history and Phuket’s economic transformation from the mining era towards today’s creative industries. Other programmes showcased local products, Phuket food traditions and the work of local artists and creative professionals.

A New Reason to Explore Phuket Old Town

TCDC Phuket

For travellers interested in Phuket beyond its beaches and resorts, TCDC Phuket adds another dimension to the island’s visitor experience.

The centre connects Phuket’s heritage, food, art, design, entrepreneurship and tourism, providing a place where visitors and residents can discover how local creativity is helping shape the future of the destination.

With its combination of historic architecture and contemporary creative activity, TCDC Phuket is set to become an important new stop for travellers exploring Phuket Old Town and the island’s evolving cultural scene.

TCDC Phuket

Website: www.tcdc.or.th
Email: phuket.service@cea.or.th
Phone: +66 2 105 7400
Address: 16/3 Soi Sarawat, Ratsada, Mueang Phuket, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Opening hours: 10:30am to 7:00pm, Tuesday to Sunday

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

The GALLERY at Meliá Pattaya: Where Thai Craftsmanship Meets Purposeful Travel

Meliá Pattaya Hotel 

Travellers visiting Pattaya can now discover a new way to connect with Thailand’s creative culture at The GALLERY, a boutique at Meliá Pattaya Hotel showcasing the work of Thai artists, designers and craftspeople.

Opened as a social enterprise, The GALLERY offers visitors the opportunity to purchase locally made gifts, handicrafts, home décor, wellness products and souvenirs while helping support artistic development for Thai children and young people.

A Boutique With a Bigger Purpose

The GALLERY has been created to connect talented Thai artisans with a wider audience while celebrating the traditions, creativity and stories behind their work.

Unlike a conventional hotel gift shop, profits from The GALLERY are reinvested into artistic development opportunities for children and youth. The initiative aims to encourage the next generation to explore creativity while helping preserve traditional Thai craftsmanship.

For visitors, this means that a purchase can become more than a holiday souvenir. It can provide a tangible connection with Thailand while supporting the people and skills behind locally produced goods.

Discover Thai Artisans and Traditional Skills

The GALLERY features an evolving collection of products from Thai designers and specialist makers.

Among the featured creators is DAWOOD Voyage Travel Souvenirs, whose artisans produce detailed tuk-tuk souvenirs from sustainable wood. The miniature creations celebrate one of Thailand’s most recognisable forms of transport while offering visitors a distinctive keepsake.

Meliá Pattaya Hotel 

Mesook Farm, an agarwood farmer group, contributes wellness and aromatic products including jasmine and lemongrass-scented massage oils and aroma wood.

Maison Craft in Thailand is also represented, experimenting with weaving materials and techniques to help keep traditional folk crafts relevant in a changing world.

Together, the collections showcase the diversity of Thai craftsmanship, from decorative objects and ceramics to wellness products and contemporary interpretations of traditional crafts.

Supporting the Next Generation of Thai Creativity

The GALLERY operates under the “Building a Better Future” mission established by Asset World Corp Public Company Limited, the owner of Meliá Pattaya Hotel.

Its “Giving Art, Art of Giving” concept aims to create long-term value for local communities through responsible and sustainable development.

The initiative forms part of a wider network of social enterprises operating at AWC hotels across Thailand, including Meliá Chiang Mai and INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit.

By providing a platform for Thai artisans while directing profits towards artistic opportunities for children and young people, The GALLERY connects tourism with community development.

A Meaningful Souvenir From Pattaya

Meliá Pattaya Hotel 

For travellers, shopping for a souvenir can be one of the most enjoyable parts of a holiday. The GALLERY offers an opportunity to make that experience more meaningful by choosing products with a connection to Thai culture and the people who create them.

Whether selecting a handcrafted tuk-tuk, locally produced wellness product, ceramic item or contemporary woven creation, visitors can take home something that represents Thailand’s creativity and craftsmanship.

The GALLERY demonstrates how hotels can become more closely connected to their surrounding communities, giving travellers an opportunity to discover local talent while contributing to the continuation of traditional skills.

For visitors staying in Pattaya, it offers another reason to look beyond conventional souvenirs and discover the creativity of contemporary Thailand.

Meliá Pattaya Hotel

Website: https://www.melia.com/
Email: info.pattaya@melia.com
Phone: +66 33 168 555
Address: 35 Beach Road, Naklua, Bang Lamung, Chon Buri, Pattaya, Thailand

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