Conference winners’ NZ$37m contribution to New Zealand acknowledged

The efforts of 31 experts who have secured international conferences for New Zealand were recognised by the Minister of Tourism at an event in Auckland 16 October. Tourism New Zealand’s Chief Executive, Stephen England-Hall told the audience that hosting international conferences delivered significant benefits for New Zealand. “In addition to the estimated NZ$37m (US$24.37m) they will contribute to the economy, the conferences won by those recognised last night will also bring over 18,000 international experts to New Zealand,” England-Hall said. “The knowledge and experience they bring often sparks innovation which helps to improve outcomes for our own experts and their areas of focus,” the TNZ CEO added. The experts recognised ranged from university academics to health sector professionals who have championed their field of expertise on the global stage to bring conferences to the country. Speaking at the event, Tourism Minister Kelvin Davis said he saw potential in international conferences to help grow New Zealand’s business, research and technology sectors. “The Government wants to foster sustainable growth through innovation, technology and high-paying jobs. I believe international conferences provide a starting point for bringing real benefits to our business, research and technology sectors which has a flow on effect to all New Zealanders,” the Minister said. Tourism New Zealand supported the 25 conferences that were celebrated at the event in Auckland through its Conference Assistance Programme, a programme available to any internationally-affiliated association or organisation that wants to bid to host an international conference with a minimum 200 delegates in New Zealand.