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MEETINGS 2025, which concluded last night in Auckland with a spectacular farewell event and a late-night dance party, marks the beginning of a two-year partnership between BEIA and the Auckland Convention Bureau.

The partnership signifies a commitment to promoting Auckland as a business events destination.

“Note that this event actually kicks off a two-year partnership with Auckland Convention Bureau, which is part of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited,” Nick Hill, chief executive of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, told delegates.

In the Kōrero session “Tātaki Auckland Unlimited,” Nick Hill presented Auckland (Tamaki Makaurau is the city’s Māori name) as a thriving global events hub.

Hill emphasised the growth of the hospitality sector, with over 5,000 new hotel rooms in five years, bolstering event capacity. He reported a 35% increase in the economic impact of business events, from NZ$35 million to NZ$48 million annually, with attendee numbers rising from 34,000 to 48,000 and visitor nights reaching 113,000. The speaker projected locking in $107 million worth of business events for Auckland.

Nick Hill, chief executive of Tataki Auckland Unlimited

Investments by Precinct Properties, Sky City, Britomart, universities, and the arts sectors are revitalising the urban experience. Hill expressed optimism about sustainable long-term funding for significant events and visitor attractions. He emphasised Auckland’s role beyond being New Zealand’s gateway, describing it as a culturally vibrant region.

The Auckland Convention Bureau, part of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, supports the business events sector through domestic and international engagement. It manages iconic venues and works to inspire future meetings, contributing to Auckland’s reputation for innovation and opportunity.

Hill reminded his audience of the statement by New Zealand’s Tourism and Hospitality Minister, Louise Upston, that “New Zealand is open for business”.

“Auckland is open for business!” Hill declared. He highlighted the city’s growth in its nighttime economy and its waterfront transformation, which was evident during January’s America’s Cup. The session concluded with an invitation to be part of Auckland’s evolving story in the business events sector, emphasizing the city’s readiness to host world-class events and foster economic growth.

Hill acknowledged Lisa Hopkins (CEO, Business Events Industry Aotearoa), Martin Snedden (former international cricketer and highly experienced CEO), and Graham Stevens (Tātaki director). He highlighted Auckland’s transformation through key projects, including the New Zealand International Convention Centre for global conferences, the City Rail Link, which enhances urban access, and Auckland Airport’s transport hub, which improves connectivity.