Countdown to New Zealand's flagship business event

Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland

MEETINGS 2026 Set to Transform Business Tourism in Auckland

Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland is preparing to welcome the biggest names in the business events industry as MEETINGS 2026 arrives next month at the spectacular New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC).

Running from 16 to 18 June, the flagship trade exhibition will unite leading buyers, event organisers, tourism operators, accommodation providers, and destinations from across New Zealand and around the globe. As the country’s premier business events showcase, MEETINGS 2026 highlights Auckland’s growing reputation as a world-class destination for conferences, incentives, and international events.

With more than 1,500 attendees expected and over 6,000 pre-scheduled meetings planned, the event marks a major milestone for New Zealand’s rapidly expanding business tourism sector.

New Zealand International Convention Centre Opens a New Era

At the heart of MEETINGS 2026 is the highly anticipated New Zealand International Convention Centre, Auckland’s newest and largest convention venue.

Purpose-built for global conferences and major events, the NZICC represents a transformational step for New Zealand’s tourism and events industry. Featuring advanced technology, flexible meeting spaces, large-scale exhibition facilities, and capacity for more than 4,000 delegates, the venue positions Auckland as a serious competitor in the international business events market.

MEETINGS 2026 will fully utilise the venue’s state-of-the-art spaces, including the Ariki exhibition hall, the impressive Te Paepae theatre, and multiple premium meeting areas designed for collaboration, networking, and innovation.

NZICC General Manager Prue Daly described hosting MEETINGS 2026 as one of the most significant milestones in the venue’s opening year, showcasing its vision as a destination built for connection, creativity, and global engagement.

Auckland Emerges as a Leading Global Events Destination

New Zealand International Convention Centre

The timing of MEETINGS 2026 reflects Auckland’s remarkable transformation into one of the Southern Hemisphere’s most exciting business and travel destinations.

Significant investment across infrastructure, accommodation, and transport has reshaped the city’s capacity to host large-scale international events. New hotel developments including Radisson RED and TRIBE Auckland are adding fresh accommodation options for business travellers and holidaymakers alike.

At the same time, major projects such as the City Rail Link and ongoing upgrades at Auckland Airport are improving accessibility and connectivity across the region.

These developments are helping position Auckland as a premier gateway for conferences, exhibitions, incentive travel, and corporate events throughout Asia-Pacific and beyond.

MEETINGS 2026 Highlights New Zealand’s Tourism Strength

Organised by Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA), MEETINGS 2026 will feature more than 250 exhibition stands representing 18 regions across New Zealand, including 10 first-time exhibitors.

Hosted buyers are travelling from Australia, South-East Asia, China, India, and North America to connect directly with New Zealand’s business events industry and explore opportunities across conferences, incentive travel, and corporate tourism.

Last year alone, MEETINGS generated an impressive $110 million in business bookings for New Zealand, underlining the event’s growing importance to the national economy and tourism industry.

BEIA Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins says the increasing level of international interest demonstrates New Zealand’s rising status in the global meetings and incentives sector.

Why Business Travellers Are Choosing Auckland

MEETINGS 2026

Auckland offers visitors far more than conference facilities. As New Zealand’s largest city, it combines world-class business infrastructure with unforgettable travel experiences.

Visitors attending MEETINGS 2026 can enjoy luxury waterfront dining, vibrant nightlife, island escapes, cultural attractions, scenic harbour cruises, and award-winning wineries, all within easy reach of the city centre.

The city’s unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty continues to attract international business travellers looking to combine work with leisure experiences.

From the iconic Sky Tower to the stunning Waitematā Harbour and nearby Waiheke Island, Auckland delivers a memorable destination experience that extends far beyond the conference floor.

MEETINGS 2026 Expected to Drive Tourism Growth

As New Zealand continues strengthening its international tourism and events profile, MEETINGS 2026 is expected to play a major role in generating future conferences, exhibitions, and corporate travel opportunities.

The event showcases not only Auckland’s capabilities but also the diversity of destinations and experiences available throughout New Zealand, helping position the country as one of the world’s leading business tourism destinations.

For travel professionals, event organisers, and international buyers, MEETINGS 2026 represents a valuable opportunity to discover the future of business events in New Zealand.

MEETINGS 2026

Website: https://www.meetings.co.nz/
Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) Website: https://www.beia.co.nz/
New Zealand International Convention Centre Website: https://www.nzicc.co.nz/

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