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One of the world’s most respected leadership programmes for convention and event professionals is coming to New Zealand for the first time, and will be held in the New Zealand International Convention Centre.
The AIPC ANZ Academy, developed by the International Association of Convention Centres in partnership with the Australian Business Events Association, is a five-day intensive programme that combines expert-led lectures with hands-on learning experiences.
The second edition of the programme will take place at the NZICC in Auckland from February 16-20, 2026, and will be a feature of the NZICC’s official opening month.
“We are honoured to host the AIPC ANZ Academy for the first time in Aotearoa New Zealand,” says NZICC general manager Prue Daly.
“The Academy’s focus on nurturing regional talent aligns perfectly with our vision to be a catalyst for world-class experiences and leadership excellence. We look forward to showcasing the very best of New Zealand’s manaakitanga with delegates from across the region.”
The announcement was made by AIPC CEO Sven Bossu, alongside Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre CEO and AIPC board member Ross Steele, and ABEA chairman Peter King.
“The inaugural AIPC ABEA ANZ Academy was an outstanding success, with 100 per cent satisfaction from participants and genuine impact felt across the board,” says Peter.
“What set the program apart was not only the calibre of content and facilitators, but the opportunity for participants to engage in real-life venue scenarios and build lasting professional networks. This is exactly the kind of capability-building our industry needs—practical, collaborative and regionally focused. We are proud to support its return in 2026.”
“Bringing the Academy to Aotearoa New Zealand in its second-year signals AIPC’s commitment to deeper regional engagement,” says Ross.
“It ensures we are supporting venue leaders across the region with a focus on relevance, access, and excellence.”
Programme delivery will again be led by Stephanie Martin from Revstar Group, a Melbourne-based management agency with expertise in business events and programme strategy.
Full programme details and registration for the AIPC and ABEA ANZ Academy 2026 will be available soon at: www.aipc.org
