In a triumphant return that heralds a new era for Aotearoa’s business events scene, MEETINGS 2025 is set to ignite Auckland with energy, investment and international flair. Hosted by Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA), the country’s premier business events showcase will take place from 11–12 June at Auckland Showgrounds—its first time back in the City of Sails since 2021.
With over 200 exhibitors from across New Zealand and a swathe of delegates from Australia and further afield, the event promises to be as much a celebration of Auckland’s renaissance as it is a marketplace of ideas, experiences and enterprise.
BEIA Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins is confident Auckland will dazzle: “Now is an exciting time to be back in New Zealand’s largest city and to showcase major developments, infrastructure investment, and new products from Auckland and across the nation.”
Indeed, Auckland’s transformation in recent years is nothing short of formidable.
Ken Pereira, Head of Auckland Convention Bureau at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited
At the heart of it all lies the eagerly awaited New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC)—the country’s largest purpose-built convention facility, symbolising a renewed commitment to business tourism. With a booming hotel sector, improved transport networks, and a bold environmental agenda, the city now offers a compelling proposition to the global MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) industry.
“There are now 18,000 hotel rooms in the region,” said Ken Pereira, Head of Auckland Convention Bureau at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited. “New additions include the JW Marriott, InterContinental, Hotel Indigo, SOHO Hotel Auckland, Horizon by SkyCity, Abstract and the Hotel Grand Chancellor. Te Arikinui Pullman at the airport is another standout. This year, we’ll also see the arrival of the Radisson RED—the first in the Pacific—and TRIBE Auckland.”
It’s not just about beds and boardrooms either. Pereira pointed to Auckland’s sweeping rail and airport infrastructure upgrades: “The City Rail Link and the new transport hub at Auckland Airport are key enablers for a more connected, accessible and environmentally conscious city.”
In a stroke of Kiwi hospitality, international hosted buyers will be treated to a familiarisation program as varied as it is vibrant—from sailing the Waitematā Harbour and wine tasting on Waiheke Island to behind-the-scenes adventures at the All Blacks Experience and Wētā Workshop Unleashed.
But it’s not all business suits and breakout sessions. The city is rolling out the red carpet in classic Auckland style. “We can’t wait to kick things off at Eden Park,” Pereira added. “It’ll be a night to remember—showcasing the stadium’s event credentials on a grand stage.”
Then on 12 June, the Viaduct Events Centre will host the closing celebration, promising a glittering finale, followed by a cheeky nightcap at the Rooftop at QT Auckland, where views and vibes meet under the stars.
Day Buyer registrations remain open for the public to attend MEETINGS 2025 on 11 and 12 June. To register for the full programme, visit www.meetings.co.nz.
Major partners powering MEETINGS 2025 include Air New Zealand, Tourism New Zealand Business Events, Auckland Convention Bureau, Auckland Showgrounds, EventsAIR, Peek Exhibition and Display, and Exhibition Hire.
After four years away, Auckland returns as a host and a hero of recovery, innovation and ambition.
By Michelle Warner
