The vibrant MEETINGS welcome celebrated the rich cultural tapestry of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland with a showcase of music and dance – Image: www.neuseeland-australien-news.com
MEETINGS, the flagship international business conference in New Zealand, is happening in Auckland and will do so annually for the next three years.
Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) announced the business events industry’s biggest showcase of the year, MEETINGS will return to the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) for the forthcoming years.
The announcement was made by BEIA Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins at the official opening of MEETINGS 2026 at the NZICC with 750 people in attendance.
BEIA Board Chair Martin Snedden said the decision was the result of careful consideration of MEETINGS’ future, recognising the importance of providing certainty, consistency and long-term value for the industry.
“The board wanted to ensure MEETINGS continued to evolve and grow. Staying at the NZICC for the next three years establishes long-term continuity. We can now plan for the future with confidence,” he said.
BEIA Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins said the trade show is delivering on its primary purpose.
“Next year, we will be recognising MEETINGS’ 30th anniversary. That is significant for an event which has welcomed thousands of event decision-makers, organisers and planners, resulting in billions of dollars being pumped into New Zealand’s economy over the past three decades.
“Knowing that MEETINGS will be anchored at the NZICC means we can continue to ensure the trade show remains fresh and relevant, while at the same time enhancing the elements that we know are important to the industry.
The MEETINGS 2026 official opening included a highlight performance supported by Auckland Convention Bureau, a division of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, and created by Oystar Creative, Kotahitanga – One People, Many Cultures brought the city to life. The vibrant welcome celebrated the rich cultural tapestry of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland with a showcase of music and dance in a shared celebration of connection, identity, and community.
Over two days (17 and 18 June), more than 600 buyers from New Zealand, Australia, North America, China, India, Japan and Southeast Asia are meeting with exhibitors across 18 regions of New Zealand, representing over 220 organisations.
BEIA’s next key industry event will be held in Ōtautahi Christchurch this October. The BEIA Annual Conference 2026 and The Bizzies Awards will both take place at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre from 27 – 29 October.
Day Buyers can still register online or on the day onsite to attend MEETINGS. Other visitors are invited during Industry Hours from 2.30pm to 4.00pm on either Wednesday 17 June or Thursday 18 June.
NAN/BEIA 17-06-23
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