Business Meets Beauty: Taupō’s Bold New Move Into the Events Spotlight

A Strategic Alliance with Vision

Destination Great Lake Taupō made a powerful statement in 2025 by partnering with DestinateNZ to elevate its position in the business events landscape. In a time when Regional Tourism Organisations were navigating complex fiscal and regulatory pressures, this partnership stood as a clear example of how collaboration could carve out new opportunities and redefine destination marketing.

Led by Michelle Caldwell of DestinateNZ, the partnership aimed to shine a spotlight on Taupō’s capacity to host world-class business events—an aspect of the region that, while rich in potential, had remained relatively under the radar. Taupō was already loved by leisure travellers from New Zealand and Australia, but this new venture set out to transform perceptions and attract corporate decision-makers.

A Region Ripe for Events

Patrick Dault, General Manager of Destination Great Lake Taupō, saw the partnership as a crucial evolution. He noted that while many knew Taupō for its natural wonders and warm hospitality, few realised it also offered a wide array of sophisticated venues, incentive experiences, and logistical capabilities suitable for large-scale business events.

The collaboration focused on crafting authentic itineraries that reflected the unique energy of the region. These were paired with a bold promotional strategy designed to present Taupō in a compelling new light to both domestic and international markets. By blending practical venue offerings with stunning natural backdrops, the campaign positioned Taupō as a destination where business could truly meet inspiration.

A Unified Presence at MEETINGS 2025

Great Lake Taupō

One of the partnership’s first major initiatives was a joint presence at MEETINGS 2025, New Zealand’s premier trade show for the business events sector. The decision to collaborate at the event was influenced by Lisa Hopkins, CEO of Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA), who revealed that 70% of pre-registered buyers were looking to bring their events to regional destinations—including Taupō.

Hopkins played a vital role in guiding the direction of the initiative. Her advocacy for regional New Zealand and strong support of Taupō helped the team craft a pitch that resonated with buyers looking for fresh, meaningful destinations outside the main city hubs. She described the partnership as a smart and timely move that offered tangible benefits to local communities.

A Destination Worth Discovering

Michelle Caldwell echoed the enthusiasm, noting that Taupō delivered a unique trifecta—natural beauty, adrenaline-fueled adventure, and top-tier hospitality. She highlighted that the collaboration was more than just marketing; it was about building a brand identity that reflected both the authenticity and professional capability of the region.

The accolades reinforced their mission. Taupō had recently been named one of the most welcoming places on Earth by Booking.com and earned a spot on CNN’s prestigious “Top 50 Places to Visit in 2025” list. These recognitions, paired with increased business event interest, signalled that the timing was perfect to reintroduce Taupō to a wider audience.

Local Strength with Global Reach

Great Lake Taupō

With a combined strategy in place and a focus on authentic, high-quality experiences, the DGLT and DestinateNZ partnership aimed to not only attract business events but to create long-term value for the local community. Through thoughtful engagement, economic uplift, and enhanced visibility, Taupō positioned itself as a regional destination ready to compete on a global stage.

To learn more about planning business events in Taupō, visit:
www.lovetaupo.com
www.destinatenz.com

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