BEIA Conference 2025 ends on a high

Business Events Industry Aotearoa's 2025 conference

Business Events Industry Aotearoa's 2025 conference in Auckland has wound up on a high with over 220 delegates talking the future of business events, and honouring the industry's best.

The BEIA Conference and the inaugural The Bizzies Awards attracted the who's who of New Zealand's conference, incentives and business events industry for two days of knowledge sharing, networking, and celebration in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.

BEIA's Outstanding Contributor Award was presented to Janet Matheson, who set up Conferences and Events (C&E) 35 years ago, and now run by her son Drew Matheson.

BEIA Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins and Board Chair Martin Snedden presented Janet with the 2025 BEIA Award, saying her story as a professional conference organiser was one of legacy, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

“The most extraordinary chapter is still being written. As this industry leader steps back from the spotlight, her legacy is far from over. The business she built remains at the heart of the sector, now led by the next generation, ensuring that the values, vision, and adventurous spirit that defined her career will continue to play an important role in our industry for years to come,” Hopkins said.

BEIA's 2026 Conference will take place in Ōtautahi Christchurch next October.

Janet Matheson receiving the

BEIA Outstanding Contributor Award

“We are thrilled to announce the BEIA Conference and The Bizzies will be held together in Christchurch next year,” BEIA Chief Executive, Lisa Hopkins said.

The BEIA Conference 2026 will open on Tuesday 27 October with a welcome at One New Zealand Stadium followed by the conference at Christchurch Town Hall on 28 and 29 October.

ChristchurchNZ Head of Destination, Kath Low says the city is thrilled to be hosting New Zealand's business events professionals to next year's BEIA Conference.

“Business events are incredibly important to our city and we can't wait to welcome everyone to experience our world-class venues, breathtaking landscapes and seamless connectivity,” she says.

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