MEETINGS confirms NZ’s appeal for business events
The 29th MEETINGS 2026 event closed with a performance by Synthony, having celebrated 18 regions' tourist offerings
New Zealand’s biggest business events trade show, MEETINGS 2026 has closed with a performance by Synthony at a celebration event for 700 guests, following 8,000 meetings across two days at New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC).
BEIA Chief Executive, Lisa Hopkins said the 29th MEETINGS was a stand-out event for the industry and highlighted New Zealand’s appeal as a business events destination.
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“MEETINGS continues to evolve to mirror the level of business activity, engagement and innovation we are seeing in New Zealand, and the shape of what comes next for our industry. We are showcasing the best and most innovative ways to bring people together to meet and share ideas,” she said.
“MEETINGS has also given us a platform to launch several major new initiatives, such as Auckland Transport’s new Hui pass designed specifically for delegate travel,” he said.
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Melbourne buyer, Charlene Tsui-Po from WaldronSmith Management Australia, who organises conferences for 300 to 2000 delegates, said this was her first visit to MEETINGS and she had great catch-ups with suppliers, hoteliers and theming companies to support three events she has booked for New Zealand.
She also visited Christchurch before MEETINGS. “It gave me a great feel for what is has to offer. It’s the perfect conference city – contained and accessible.”
Another first time Australian buyer, Linda Parra from True Synergy found new venues, attractions, merchandise, AV tech and speaker options for upcoming conferences in New Zealand. She was looking at options in the main centres and the regions.
“I have loved the real community feel here at MEETINGS. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming and I have made so many new connections,” she said.
Other new venues to make their MEETINGS debut included Wellington’s expanded Tiakiwai Conference Centre, now spanning two heritage buildings including the newly opened Archives New Zealand, and Cliffside, an outcome-focused offsite destination on the clifftops of Karioitahi beach less than an hour from Auckland.
In the South Island, Te Unua Museum of Southland is a landmark new Invercargill museum opening in 2027, and Te Puna Mahara, a purpose-built 400-seat events centre is opening in Cromwell, Central Otago.
“We work collaboratively with all the hotels in the precinct and NZICC to create a lively walkable atmosphere surrounding the convention centre,” she said.
“Sharing an Auckland success story that’s gone on to make waves nationally and globally is a powerful way to bring the industry together for an experience that’s energetic, joyful and unmistakably special, and reflecting the impact we aspire to create through NZICC.”
