Spectacular new venues entice conferences to New Zealand
With three new world-class convention centres, New Zealand is attracting record numbers of international events
New Zealand is targeting a record 90 international conference bids in the next fiscal year, driven by its stunning new infrastructure.
Combined with the appeal of the country’s extraordinary scenery and inspiring pre and post activities, the ability to incorporate its unique Māori culture into both its conference content and organisation, and a strong network of innovative thought leaders to champion conferences, the destination is actively appealing to a bigger, broader range of association business.
“Business events is a core market for us, bringing high quality visitors that deliver knowledge, business and economic benefits, and positive social legacies. This is a great time to focus on the sector and target sustainable growth.”
Te Pae Christchurch takes a greater slice of business
Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre
Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre
Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre opened in May 2022 on the banks of the Ōtākaro Avon River, a short but scenic stroll from the array of hotels, restaurants and retail outlets in the revitalised city centre of Ōtautahi Christchurch.
In its first 13 months of operation, it hosted 290 events including 13 international conferences.
It offers 28,000 sqm of flexible space, including a 1,400-seat tiered auditorium divisible into two 700-seat venues.
It has already posted wins aligning with its knowledge hubs in the virtual reality, agritech, aerospace and earth science sectors.
Wellington sets sights on science and education
Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre
Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre
Te Whanganui a Tara Wellington officially opened its new conference and exhibition centre, Tākina, in May, with more than 50 conferences booked in its first year.
Located directly opposite Wellington’s waterfront, Tākina is in the centre of this creative capital’s cultural precinct.
It offers 10,000 sqm of flexible conferencing space over two levels, with capacity for plenaries up to 1,600.
It has won international events focused on culture, health and education, with government investment in three new science research hubs expected to draw further science-focused events to the city.
Auckland on a grand scale
Due to open mid-2025, the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) will be the country’s largest new venue. Rising in the centre of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, it will link directly via air bridges to the new Horizon Hotel and the SkyCity entertainment precinct.
Its flexible event space will cater for up to 4,000 people across 32,500 sqm, including a theatre capacity of 2,850.
Ahead of its opening date, NZICC has already confirmed 11 international conferences.
Events announced to date cover topics in the education, Indigenous culture, science, sustainability and environment sectors.
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