Held annually since 1997, the two-day event is being hosted at the Auckland Showgrounds after a delay in opening of the New Zealand International Convention Centre.
This year’s MEETINGS has the largest ever delegation from Australia, with 126 business event organisers crossing the Tasman to meet in Auckland.
More than 550 buyers in total were welcomed at Eden Park last night (Tuesday) by the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, Louise Upston, and the Auckland Mayor, Wayne Brown.
Today they are meeting with more than 253 exhibitors including 35 new sellers representing venues, theming companies, hotels, AV companies, regional bureaux, attractions and activities from over 18 destinations.
Business Events Industry Aotearoa chief executive, Lisa Hopkins, said New Zealand’s growth as a premium destination for business events is sparking interest around the world, and buyers are eager to attend MEETINGS and are ready to book events here.
“MEETINGS is a microcosm of New Zealand under one roof,” she said.
“Buyers can organise their events on the spot, boost their knowledge of the regional destinations, get updates on all the new infrastructure, and find out more about the assistance available to bring their events to New Zealand.”
Ms Hopkins said with the support of seven regional convention bureaux and Air New Zealand, 64 of the Australian buyers have had the opportunity to explore more of the country.
Prior to the welcome event, hosted buyers experienced a city tour with the Auckland Convention Bureau.
In 2024 MEETINGS generated more than $110 million of business bookings during its two days of pre-scheduled appointments.
The exhibition will also attract a strong number of day buyers from Auckland and other cities in New Zealand.