Coasties may be interested to know Auckland recently took steps to strengthen its position as a leading destination for business events, with an eye toward economic growth and collaboration.

The two-day forum, “Unleashing the Potential of Business Events,” took place at Auckland’s Aotea Centre from 4-5 November and welcomed over 150 industry leaders and experts from both New Zealand and abroad.

Organised by the Auckland Convention Bureau (ACB), a branch of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, the event brought together key players to discuss strategies for enhancing Auckland's appeal in the business events market.

Among the major talking points were new research insights and collaborative strategies intended to boost the city’s competitiveness on an international scale, paving the way for Auckland's economic future.

Auckland Acting Mayor Desley Simpson opened the forum with remarks that highlighted Auckland’s standing as New Zealand’s top-ranked city for business events.

She noted, “This forum sends a powerful message to the global business events industry that Auckland deserves its ranking...and the best meetings, incentives, conferences, events destination in Oceania.”

Simpson emphasised that Auckland’s ongoing efforts to innovate and adapt keep it ahead in an increasingly competitive market.

The forum comes at a time when Auckland is preparing for the launch of the New Zealand International Convention Centre in 2025, which is expected to add significant capacity to the city’s growing hotel portfolio.

The city anticipates that the facility will contribute an estimated NZD $90 million annually to Auckland's economy through increased visitor activity.

According to Ken Pereira, Head of Business Events at ACB, the discussions underscored the pivotal role of business events in Auckland’s economic growth.

“This forum demonstrated the incredible role business events play...highlighted how business events are a catalyst to attracting diverse sectors, ultimately driving significant and lasting outcomes for our communities,” he shared.

Barbara Maple, Chair of the Auckland International Business Events Advisory Group, noted that Auckland’s unique cultural offerings, reputation for safety, and focus on innovation position it well in the international events market.

Maple said, “The international advisors...have massive influence in what they can bring to Auckland business events. This is a game changer for Auckland.”

The event concluded with broad consensus among attendees that public-private collaboration is essential for the continued growth of Auckland’s business events sector, positioning the city to achieve strategic and sustainable economic benefits.