Following an opening ceremony and celebration events, the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) has opened its doors to the public, marking a major milestone for Auckland and New Zealand’s business events, tourism and cultural sectors.
Following ceremonial proceedings led by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei at first light on 11 February, prime minister Christopher Luxon formally opened the NZ$750m (US$453.6m), purpose-built venue, New Zealand’s largest convention centre.
The opening signals more than just a new events space. The NZICC is expected to generate over NZ$90m in new economic activity annually and attract around 33,000 international visitors each year.
The NZICC capacity is for 4,000+ delegates, 33 meeting rooms and a 2,850-seat theatre.
On 12 February 2026, the NZICC welcomed its first 650 leaders, dignitaries and partners for a celebration event which showcased the venue’s scale and atmosphere through light, art and performance. Helios, Luke Jerram’s six-metre sun sculpture, illuminated Ariki Hall alongside Sara Hughes’ Iwi Rau (Many Leaves, One Canopy), while Te Paepae Theatre hosted inaugural performances from Te Whare Karioi, the Auckland Youth Choir and a surprise appearance by Six60.
The prime minister said: “The opening of the NZICC is a proud moment for Auckland and for New Zealand. It’s a significant investment in our economy, creating jobs, attracting international visitors, and supporting growth across tourism, hospitality, and local businesses. Just as importantly, it’s a place built for people. It is where ideas are shared, relationships are formed, and communities connect. NZICC strengthens New Zealand’s ability to compete globally while delivering benefits that will be felt by Aucklanders and New Zealanders for generations to come.”
Renè de Monchy, CEO of Tourism New Zealand, added “The NZICC plays an important role in positioning New Zealand as a world-class conference and exhibition destination. It gives us the capability to welcome the world in a whole new way and plays an important role in accelerating international visitor arrivals for the Auckland region, and beyond.”
Designed by Warren and Mahoney, Moller Architects, and Woods Bagot. John Coop, MD at Warren and Mahoney said: “The building’s design is the product of collaboration and ambition from fellow architects, specifiers, builders, engineers, and artists – at a scale never before seen in Tāmaki Makaurau. We’re proud to have led the design of a project that demonstrates the power of social infrastructure to transform cities, and create meaningful experiences for those within them,”
Prue Daly, General Manager of NZICC, added: “Opening the NZICC represents years of collaboration, creativity, and careful planning from everyone involved. I want to acknowledge and sincerely thank our incredible NZICC team and partners whose passion, resilience and commitment have brought this vision to life. We’re proud to welcome the world through these doors and look forward to the incredible events and experiences ahead.”
For more information and to keep up to date with upcoming events and conferences, visit: https://nzicc.co.nz/
