Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland heads into the new year with a distinct sense of optimism. Beyond generating 40% of New Zealand’s GDP, Auckland is also home to three world-class universities offering strong research and development opportunities. With strong start-up and innovation networks, Auckland is a playground for new ideas and connections.
The city also understands the importance of infrastructure investment. A new central city rail link is set to extend the borders of Auckland, and developments at the city’s airport – including a second runway – will expand New Zealand’s largest and busiest international gateway.
Meanwhile, an influx of new accommodation investment in the city has seen hotel capacity in Auckland grow 23% since 2019. There are now 18,000 rooms in the region, with new additions in the city centre including the Horizon by SkyCity, SO/Auckland, Soho Auckland, JW Marriott, Intercontinental, Park Hyatt and Mövenpick properties, as well as the airport’s new Te Arikinui Pullman.
Unleashing the potential of business events
Auckland is leading the way to meeting the aspirations of the community through attracting purposeful business events to the city. A recent forum led by Auckland Convention Bureau (ACB)/Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU), ‘Unleashing the Potential of Business Events’ saw international events industry leaders recognise unique selling points for the city in line with current demands in the events market.
These included Auckland’s range of unique experiences in nature; a young and diverse population; the ability to engage with the indigenous Māori culture; and an international reputation for being safe, secure and innovative. The outcome of the Forum put in motion plans to develop a structured group of stakeholders to drive Auckland’s economic development through business events.
“Events in Auckland are an important part of what contributes to Auckland’s international appeal. The 2024 State of the City international benchmarking report on Auckland highlighted the city’s ranking above its peer cities as a place to experience,” Mark Thomas, director, Committee for Auckland, explained.
“By strategically aligning business events with Auckland’s strengths as well as its opportunities in infrastructure delivery, skills development and diversity, we can capitalise on the city’s assets as well as add insights and build awareness which can add value to those who are or want to work, study, visit or invest in Auckland.”
Conference growth – targeting Australasia, the Asia Pacific region and international associations – forms part of ACB’s goal of a balanced portfolio. “Hosting events that focus on innovation, sustainability and cultural enrichment can attract international attention and investment, contributing to Auckland’s prosperity. This approach not only boosts the city’s economy but also enriches our community, aligning with the aspirations outlined in the State of the City report,” added Thomas.
NZICC opening
Those conferences will now have a world-class home. The New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) opening this year in the heart of the city adds to the already proven international venues including the Aotea Centre and the Viaduct Events Centre. The NZICC is literally on the doorstep of world-class hotels, entertainment and hospitality options.
Its vertical design means no shuttling between venues. The new venue will offer the flexibility of operable walls, meaning the exhibition hall space on Level 3 will be adaptable to accommodate anything from intimate groups through to dinners for more than 3,000 people.
The 2,850-capacity theatre can also be divided to create space for events to occur concurrently and without disruption. The retractable seating in this theatre space also allows for flat floor accessibility for dinners or cocktail functions, and 938 hotel rooms are accessible via an integral skybridge.
With the demands of delegates extending far beyond the four walls of the venue, Auckland’s vibrant city centre offers plenty to inspire, from nightlife to a huge range of restaurants serving up New Zealand’s fantastic fresh produce. Incorporate a view of Auckland’s beautiful harbour with drinks at the Viaduct Events Centre or Shed 10, or take in a 360-degree vista from the top of the iconic Sky Tower.
Safe and exciting harbour(s) for incentives
As the line blurs between conferences and incentives, Auckland offers unbeatable opportunities for both. Surrounded by picturesque harbours, Auckland is one of the few cities in the world to have two harbours on two separate major bodies of water. In addition there is a native forest, beautiful beaches and scenic wine regions, all forming part of the city’s huge range of easily accessible opportunities to explore and connect with nature.
From ziplining over native forest, paddling a kayak across the harbour, or strolling its black sand beaches, there’s options for every level of adventure. Delegates can dine among the vines with an award-wining wine on picturesque Waiheke Island, or on the stage at The Civic theatre. Embrace movie magic with a gala dinner among galactic robots at Wētā Workshop Unleashed, or practise rugby skills before hunkering down for a team dinner at the All Blacks Experience.
Meet Māori style
New Zealand’s indigenous Māori culture is an integral part of what makes the country so unique. Auckland offers a range of opportunities to ensure its meaningful and memorable inclusion in events, from incorporating Māori content, speakers and values in the conference programme, to receiving a traditional Māori welcome, facing a spine-tingling haka, or enjoying a Hāngi feast.
TAU’s new ‘Treasures of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’ platform outlines some of the unique offerings available, from immersive cultural experiences to indigenous cuisine, bespoke tours, cruises and activities of cultural significance.
And, with the issue of sustainability high on everyone’s watchlist, Auckland Convention Bureau is committed to delivering business events that support positive social, environmental, cultural and economic outcomes for Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. The city’s climate plan has the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030, and achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
An unbeatable experience and a clear conscience – Auckland offers the perfect solution for organisers.
