Business events in New Zealand deliver half a billion dollars to the country

Business events in New Zealand have delivered NZD$500m to the country over the past five years, according to New Zealand Tourism. The figures come in the wake of CINZ Meetings 2019, New Zealand’s largest MICE industry trade show. Tourism New Zealand works closely with the industry to attract business events to the country. Rene de Monchy, Tourism New Zealand’s Director of Commercial, said: “New Zealand is punching above its weight as a conference destination, winning more conference business than ever before. “We’re outperforming much larger, more easily accessible destinations due to our reputation for hospitality and housing. International business events are a crucial part of our economy, helping our communities and knowledge grow. “Business events attract high-value visitors in the off-peak, and bring global experts to our country to collaborate with our experts.” Tourism New Zealand has also launched a new initiative which will aim to measure and maximise the benefits of conferences beyond just the economic value. It will be taking a multi-sector approach incorporating tourism, economic development, the environment and social processes. De Monchy adds: “Together we can identify potential impacts in advance of a conference happening and out measures in place to create positive lasting outcomes and benefits for the country once the conference is over.”