In an astonishing display of economic prowess, MEETINGS 2023, Aotearoa New Zealand’s most prestigious annual business events exhibition, has sent shockwaves through the industry by obliterating previous records and catapulting the projected value of business generated to unprecedented heights.
According to a post-MEETINGS buyer survey conducted by Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA), a staggering $157 million is poised to surge into the New Zealand economy over the next five years following the momentous two-day event held in Wellington this past June. This figure represents a jaw-dropping increase when juxtaposed with the results of 2022.
Lisa Hopkins, the trailblazing Chief Executive of BEIA, attributes this phenomenal achievement to a symphony of factors that have converged to make New Zealand an irresistible mecca for event planners worldwide. She notes, “Our world-class infrastructure, amplified international connectivity, and a kaleidoscope of offerings from various regions render New Zealand an unrivaled destination for event organizers.”
In a bold move set to amplify the nation’s prominence, BEIA is on the cusp of launching New Zealand’s inaugural Business Events Week. Kicking off with the highly anticipated BEIA annual conference on September 18th in the picturesque Marlborough region, the week-long celebration aims to thrust business events into the spotlight and underscore their pivotal role in shaping the nation’s destiny.
Hopkins fervently states, “Business events are not merely economic catalysts; they wield the power to orchestrate positive societal transformations, invigorate communities, and forge indelible legacies. Our upcoming Business Events Week will encompass diverse forums that will engage influencers in exploring the far-reaching impact of business events.”
The horizon for New Zealand’s business events sector appears immensely promising with the impending unveiling of the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) in 2025, alongside the recent inauguration of two cutting-edge convention centres in Christchurch and Wellington. These visionary developments have ushered in a cascade of bookings that stretch well into the foreseeable future.
“We have already locked in robust bookings for the next five years. This influx guarantees the convergence of luminaries including doctors, scientists, technology titans, and trailblazers from various industries on our shores. Their global acumen collides with our local expertise, paving the way for unparalleled collaboration,” beams Hopkins.
The economic ripples by conference attendees transcend mere financial stimulation; they reverberate across local retailers, hospitality establishments, educational institutions, and communities. A conference’s presence injects vitality into culture, environment, and society, breathing life into every facet of the region.
Marking a historic milestone, Business Events Industry Aotearoa’s MEETINGS 2023, hosted in the heart of Wellington, shattered previous records as the colossal gathering in its illustrious 27-year history. Boasting a staggering 224 exhibition stands representing 19 regions, the event drew more than 400 buyers, including a robust contingent of 100 from Australia and ten from international markets.
The crescendo of this groundbreaking narrative unfurls during Business Events Week, slated for September 18th to 22nd. The event extravaganza commences with the BEIA Conference in Marlborough, followed by a riveting Policy Forum in Wellington, the grandeur of the Tourism New Zealand Business Events National Awards, and a captivating Business Forum in Auckland. Endorsed by Tourism New Zealand, the week will see luminary global business events experts and international strategists converge with local luminaries to chart the trajectory of the sector’s future legacies and opportunities.
As the countdown commences, registrations are now open for the BEIA 2023 Conference, scheduled from September 18th to 20th in the enchanting backdrop of Blenheim, Marlborough. Witness the luminous future that awaits the intersection of business, innovation, and New Zealand’s unparalleled natural beauty.
For more information, visit BEIA’s official website and MEETINGS 2023 event page.
Written by: Michelle Warner