Future-focused and eco-certified: Accor sets the tone for MEETINGS 2025

Now in its 29th year, MEETINGS is New Zealand’s premier business events trade show. Held in Auckland from June 11–12.

0 2 minutes read

Accor, New Zealand’s largest hotel operator, is set to make a strong return to MEETINGS 2025, unveiling an expanded portfolio, fresh experiences, and a deepened commitment to environmental excellence.

Now in its 29th year, MEETINGS is New Zealand’s premier business events trade show. Held in Auckland from June 11–12, the two-day event connects industry leaders, buyers, and sellers from the conference, meetings, exhibition, and incentive travel sectors, fostering meaningful connections and fresh ideas.

With several high-profile openings and standout properties across Aotearoa, Accor continues to shape the future of meetings and events with innovative design, thoughtful hospitality, and environmentally conscious operations.

Dynamic new openings across Aotearoa

At the centre of Accor’s latest developments is Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport, a striking new hotel just steps from the international terminal. Architecturally inspired by the journey of the Tainui waka, the hotel blends cultural storytelling with premium design. It features 311 guestrooms, the Te Kaahu restaurant overlooking Manukau Harbour, and two exclusive top-floor meeting rooms, ideal for executive boardroom gatherings in a uniquely Aotearoa setting.

In Auckland’s lively Fort Street precinct, two new Ennismore openings will shake up the local accommodation scene in 2025. JO&JOE Auckland Fort Street will deliver a playful, social hospitality experience with 73 rooms, 308 bunks, communal spaces, and a rooftop bar. Right next door, TRIBE Auckland Fort Street will offer 60 sleek guestrooms, smart tech, and a vibrant lobby bar tailored to modern travellers.

Tribe Auckland Fort Street_Social Lounge

Meanwhile, Accor’s recent signing of Wairakei Resort Taupō positions the heritage resort as a future leader in retreat-style conferencing. Surrounded by geothermal wonders just north of Lake Taupō, the resort features 187 rooms, expansive conference facilities, a nine-hole golf course, a day spa, heated pools, and multiple dining options, perfect for incentive escapes and destination events.

Looking to 2026, Pullman Hamilton will bring fresh energy to the city’s skyline. Located within the redeveloped Mistry Centre, the 191-room hotel will offer a rooftop executive lounge and bar, wellness spa, underground parking, and modern event facilities, cementing its place as a future-forward venue in one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing cities.

Sustainability leads the way

Accor remains a clear industry leader in sustainable hospitality. Across the Pacific, more than 200 Accor hotels are eco-certified, including over 25 in New Zealand that have achieved Qualmark Gold Sustainable Tourism Business Certification, representing more than 50 percent of the brand’s New Zealand portfolio.

Among the latest recipients is SO/ Auckland, awarded Gold status in December 2024 in recognition of its strong environmental practices and commitment to sustainable operations.

Curated experiences and elevated dining

Accor continues to redefine premium event hospitality through exclusive, high-touch experiences. At Sofitel Wellington, the newly launched Chef’s Table at Jardin Grill offers a private degustation for just six guests per evening. Curated by Executive Chef Joe Costelloe, the menu champions seasonal New Zealand produce and is cooked over an applewood fire grill, delivering a sensory, intimate experience that elevates group dining.

Supporting planners with flexibility and rewards

Recognising the ongoing value of face-to-face connection, Accor is investing in flexible meeting spaces, expert support teams, and tools that help planners meet both event goals and sustainability benchmarks.

Initiatives like the Net Zero Carbon Calculator offer environmental transparency, while the ALL Meeting Planner loyalty program rewards organisers with year-round benefits. Members can earn and redeem points to cover up to 15 percent of event costs, with access to exclusive perks such as premium experiences at Accor Stadium and Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney.