Future of Hospitality to take centre stage at HNZ26
Hospitality leaders, emerging technology, and industry innovation will take centre stage at HNZ26 in Rotorua as New Zealand’s largest hospitality and accommodation conference prepares to welcome hundreds of delegates in June.
New Zealand’s hospitality and accommodation sector is preparing for one of its biggest industry gatherings of the year, with HNZ26 set to bring together leading voices, emerging trends, and future-focused technology in Rotorua next month.
Hosted by Hospitality New Zealand, the two-day conference and trade exhibition will take place at the Energy Events Centre on June 23-24 and is expected to attract hundreds of industry professionals from across Aotearoa.
Under the theme Manaakitanga in Motion, the event will explore the future direction of hospitality and accommodation through keynote presentations, expert panels, networking opportunities, and what organisers say will be Hospitality NZ’s largest-ever trade floor.
Among the headline speakers is international hospitality performance strategist Preston Lee, alongside internationally recognised flavour researcher, bartender and author Atilla Bús. Award-winning New Zealand digital creator Louis Davis will also speak about building authentic brands through culture and lived experience.
Hospitality NZ Chief Executive Kristy Phillips said the conference is designed to support operators looking to strengthen and future-proof their businesses.
“HNZ26 is for anyone in the hospitality and accommodation sector looking at ways to improve, grow, and better their business,” Ms Phillips said.
“From inspiring keynotes and expert panels, to a buzzing trade expo and networking and social opportunities, HNZ26 will unpack the sector’s challenges and showcase the opportunities that will advance the industry.”
The conference program will cover a broad range of topics, including the state of the industry, future outlooks, technological innovation, sustainability initiatives, and attracting and supporting the next generation of hospitality professionals.
The trade exhibition is also expected to feature a wide range of suppliers, hospitality technology providers, sustainable business solutions, and food and beverage brands.
Renowned broadcaster Trudi Nelson will MC the event, while comedian and voice-over artist Simon McKinney will host the black-tie awards evening.
As part of the conference, the LION Hospitality New Zealand Awards for Excellence will recognise standout individuals and businesses across the sector. The awards program includes the People’s Awards for Excellence, sponsored by DB Breweries, and the Hospitality Business Awards, sponsored by LION New Zealand.
The awards celebrate achievements in leadership, innovation, sustainability, customer experience, and operational excellence, with the Supreme Award to be selected by independent judges from the category winners.
Further information about HNZ26, speakers, tickets, and award finalists is available via the official HNZ26 conference website.
