Auckland Welcomes Landmark MEETINGS 2026 at New Zealand’s Newest Convention Centre

Auckland

New Zealand’s Biggest Business Events Showcase Arrives at NZICC

The countdown is on for one of the most significant events on New Zealand’s business events calendar, with MEETINGS 2026 set to open next week at Auckland’s impressive New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC).

From 16 to 18 June, more than 600 hosted buyers and over 250 exhibitors representing 18 regions across New Zealand will gather in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland for the country’s largest business events showcase. The event is expected to attract more than 1,500 attendees and facilitate approximately 6,000 pre-scheduled business appointments.

Organised by Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA), MEETINGS continues to play a pivotal role in connecting international and domestic event planners with New Zealand’s diverse range of destinations, venues, accommodation providers and unique experiences.

A Milestone Event for the New Zealand International Convention Centre

New Zealand International Convention Centre

This year’s showcase marks a historic moment for the newly opened New Zealand International Convention Centre, which will host the entire event under one roof.

According to BEIA Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins, MEETINGS 2026 will provide delegates with a fully integrated experience, with opening events, exhibitions and celebrations all taking place within the state-of-the-art convention centre.

The venue's central Auckland location places it within easy walking distance of many host hotels, creating a seamless and connected experience for buyers, exhibitors and visitors alike.

For the NZICC team, hosting MEETINGS during its opening year represents a major achievement and a powerful showcase of the venue's capabilities as New Zealand's premier convention and exhibition facility.

International Buyers Discover New Zealand’s Business Events Potential

MEETINGS 2026 is attracting strong international interest, with buyers travelling from Australia, Southeast Asia, China, India, Japan and North America.

More than 105 business event organisers and media representatives are crossing the Tasman to attend, supported by partnerships with Air New Zealand, Tourism New Zealand and Auckland’s host hotel network.

An exciting aspect of this year’s event is that approximately half of all buyers are attending MEETINGS for the first time. For many, it will be their first opportunity to experience Auckland and the newly opened NZICC firsthand.

Beyond Auckland: Exploring New Zealand’s Regions

Pōhutu Geyser

The benefits of MEETINGS extend well beyond Auckland.

Supported by seven regional convention bureaux and Air New Zealand, Australian buyers are being encouraged to explore destinations throughout New Zealand before and after the event. These familiarisation visits provide valuable opportunities for international planners to experience the country's conference, incentive and corporate event offerings across multiple regions.

Before the official opening, Auckland Convention Bureau will also host dedicated city tours for buyers and media, highlighting the city’s growing appeal as a destination for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions.

A Showcase for the Future of Business Events

The two-day trade exhibition on 17 and 18 June will provide attendees with direct access to New Zealand’s leading business events suppliers and destinations.

The event is open to professionals responsible for organising conferences, corporate meetings, exhibitions, incentive travel programs, product launches, roadshows and team-building experiences throughout New Zealand.

Industry Hours will be held from 2.30pm to 4.00pm on both exhibition days, offering additional networking opportunities for event planners and suppliers.

As New Zealand's business events sector continues to strengthen, MEETINGS 2026 is expected to generate new partnerships, showcase innovation and reinforce the country's position as a world-class destination for conferences and corporate events.

Why MEETINGS Matters for New Zealand Tourism

Business events contribute significantly to New Zealand’s visitor economy, generating year-round travel demand and attracting high-value international delegates. Events such as MEETINGS help showcase not only world-class venues and infrastructure but also the unique cultural, natural and hospitality experiences available throughout the country.

With Auckland's new convention centre now open and international interest growing, MEETINGS 2026 is set to be a defining moment for the future of New Zealand’s meetings and events industry.

MEETINGS 2026

16–18 June 2026
New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC)
Auckland, New Zealand

For More Information

MEETINGS Official Website: https://www.meetings.co.nz
Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA): https://www.beia.co.nz
New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC): https://www.nzicc.co.nz
Tourism New Zealand: https://www.newzealand.com

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