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Saturday, 1 November 2025

New Zealand Ticks the ‘Total Package’ for Events

New Zealand
100% Overseas Appeal, 0% Difficulty Rating

When it comes to hosting unforgettable conferences and incentives, New Zealand has set a new benchmark with its 100% Pure New Zealand campaign. The message is clear: across the Tasman lies a destination that combines international appeal with effortless accessibility.

“New Zealand offers the ease and exceptional facilities of an interstate event with the added attraction of an international destination,” says Tourism New Zealand Global Manager Business Events, Penelope Ryan. “Hosting an event here can take a similar travel time as flying to some Australian states, but with the potential to boost attendance and forge trans-Tasman ties.”

Whether you’re planning a program that’s 20% adventure and 80% relaxation, or an even blend of nature and vibrant culture, New Zealand delivers a tailor-made experience for every delegate.

A Country Built for Conferences and Incentives

New Zealand’s infrastructure continues to strengthen, thanks to an impressive wave of new hotel developments and world-class conference facilities. From luxury wellness retreats and adrenaline-fuelled adventures to fine dining and Māori cultural experiences, the country offers a complete package for business events.

“For conferences, we can offer the mix organisers want — innovative content, experiential learning, and outstanding pre- and post-event activities,” says Ryan. “New Zealand is politically stable, multicultural, and renowned for its warm welcome. With growing airline capacity, you can now fly directly from Australia to Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, Queenstown, Hamilton, and Dunedin. It’s easy to get here, and even easier to do business.”

Meeting Expectations Across the Country

A new generation of state-of-the-art convention centres is transforming New Zealand into one of the most exciting business events destinations in the Asia-Pacific.

Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre

In the South Island, Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre is enjoying its busiest season since opening in 2022. Between August and November 2025, it is expected to welcome over 32,000 visitors across more than 80 events, including six major international conferences such as the UroGynaecological Society of Australasia Annual Scientific Meeting and the International Society for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Conference.

For Australian delegates, the convenience of a short flight means conferences can easily become extended ‘bleisure’ trips — blending business with leisure and exploration. “We’re seeing delegates plan pre- and post-event touring, often with friends and family,” says Te Pae General Manager Ross Steele.

Wellington Welcomes the World

Further north, the Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre has added a powerful boost to the capital’s event capabilities. The vibrant, compact city is perfectly suited for conference attendees who want to explore everything from world-class museums to waterfront dining.

Tākina is hosting its largest-ever number of international conferences this season, including the International Conference on Urban Health 2025 and The International Council for Open and Distance Education’s 30th World Conference. Upcoming highlights also include iPRES 2025 and the Pacific Rim International Conference on Artificial Intelligence.

Auckland’s NZICC Set to Shine in 2026

In Auckland, the highly anticipated New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) will open in February 2026 — marking a major milestone for the nation’s events industry.

The NZICC is set to open in 2026

Two of Australasia’s largest medical associations, the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA) and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO), have already confirmed their conferences for the new venue.

“As a trans-Tasman organisation, we are thrilled to hold our 2026 Annual Scientific Meeting at the NZICC,” says Professor Dave Story, President of ANZCA. RANZCO CEO Mark Carmichael adds: “It’s been over a decade since our Congress was last hosted in New Zealand — we’re excited to experience Auckland’s energy and innovation.”

Connecting at AIME 2026

Tourism New Zealand’s Business Events team will showcase the country’s exceptional offerings at AIME 2026, joined by a record 37 New Zealand partners. “This is the perfect opportunity to explore New Zealand’s venues, landscapes, and support for business events,” says Ryan. “Be sure to visit us for kōrero and kai — a chat and a snack — and discover why New Zealand truly ticks every box.”

For more information, visit businessevents.newzealand.com or contact Helen.Bambry@tnz.govt.nz

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