Thursday, May 15, 2025
Auckland Set to Host MEETINGS 2025: A Revitalized Business Events Showcase
Business event professionals from New Zealand, Australia, and international markets are preparing to gather in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland for MEETINGS 2025, the signature event presented by Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA). Taking place from June 10–12 at the Auckland Showgrounds, this marks the event’s return to Auckland after a four-year break.
With over 200 exhibitors from across New Zealand, MEETINGS 2025 is set to be a dynamic showcase of the country’s business events sector, offering unparalleled networking opportunities, hosted buyer experiences, and a taste of local culture and hospitality.
Recognized as a critical economic driver, New Zealand’s business events industry attracts thousands of high-value visitors each year, contributing substantially to local economies. MEETINGS 2025 reinforces this momentum by uniting key stakeholders—planners, suppliers, and buyers—in a shared space to promote collaboration and innovation.
BEIA Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins highlighted the significance of Auckland’s return as host:
“Auckland last hosted MEETINGS in 2021, and it’s an exciting time to return. The city is evolving rapidly, with new developments and investments that are reshaping the business events landscape.”
This return aligns closely with Auckland Council’s strategic vision to establish the city as a world-class destination for business events. Infrastructure upgrades and economic initiatives are helping elevate its status on the global stage.
Auckland’s readiness to host large-scale events has been significantly bolstered by new developments in both infrastructure and accommodation. A flagship project, the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC)—managed by the Auckland Convention Bureau—stands as the country’s largest purpose-built venue for international business gatherings. With cutting-edge design, flexible spaces, and advanced technology, the NZICC is redefining how events are delivered in Aotearoa.
Ken Pereira, Head of the Auckland Convention Bureau at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, emphasized the transformation:
“Auckland now offers around 18,000 hotel rooms, including a wave of new properties like Horizon by SkyCity—linked directly to NZICC—as well as the JW Marriott, Intercontinental, Hotel Indigo, SOHO Hotel Auckland, and the new Te Arikinui Pullman at Auckland Airport.”
This surge in accommodation options aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure and stimulate economic growth through business travel. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) acknowledges business events as a vital contributor to regional economies and New Zealand’s international visibility.
Major transport upgrades like the City Rail Link and Auckland Airport’s expansion further improve connectivity, ensuring seamless travel for both domestic and international visitors.
Looking ahead, the arrival of hotels like Radisson RED—a Pacific-first—and TRIBE Auckland will offer even more variety and capacity for future events.
MEETINGS 2025 will offer more than just exhibitions and meetings. Hosted buyers will enjoy an exclusive Auckland City Experience Day on June 10, exploring world-renowned attractions like the All Blacks Experience and Wētā Workshop Unleashed, diving into the creative heartbeat of New Zealand.
Attendees will also enjoy unique leisure activities, including wine tasting on Waiheke Island and sailing across the Waitematā Harbour, blending professional engagement with memorable personal experiences.
The official welcome event kicks off at Eden Park, New Zealand’s legendary stadium, setting a spirited tone for the event. Festivities conclude at the Viaduct Events Centre on June 12, with an after-party at QT Auckland’s Rooftop, showcasing the city’s vibrant nightlife.
The return of MEETINGS to Auckland underscores New Zealand’s broader ambition to strengthen its presence in the global business events arena. With strong backing from Tourism New Zealand, MBIE, and other government bodies, continued investment is driving growth, sustainability, and innovation across the sector.
Business events play a pivotal role in New Zealand’s economic narrative by attracting international visitors who often extend their stay, supporting tourism, hospitality, and other industries. Events like MEETINGS 2025 act as a springboard for cross-sector partnerships, trade opportunities, and knowledge exchange.
As Auckland continues to transform—with new venues, enhanced transport links, and a diverse range of accommodations—it is positioned as a top-tier destination for international conferences and exhibitions.
Working closely with industry partners, BEIA and the Auckland Convention Bureau are committed to delivering an exceptional MEETINGS 2025. The event will showcase the very best of New Zealand’s event management capabilities, hospitality, and cultural richness, setting the tone for a vibrant future in the global business events space.
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