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The New Zealand International Convention Centre has been awarded Qualmark Gold under Qualmark’s Sustainable Tourism Business criteria, following an independent assessment ahead of its official opening on Tuesday, February 11, 2026.
Qualmark is New Zealand’s official quality assurance mark for tourism businesses, recognising excellence across sustainability, safety and visitor experience. The assessment awarded the NZICC a Gold rating, signalling the venue’s readiness to host major events from the outset.
General manager of Qualmark Steven Dixon says the accreditation reflects industry-leading standards.
“NZICC’s achievement of a Qualmark Gold award highlights its strong commitment to delivering a high-quality, sustainable visitor experience,” Steven says. “This accreditation reflects best practice across sustainability, safety and manaakitanga, and demonstrates NZICC’s readiness to open as a benchmark for excellence in Aotearoa’s business events sector.”
Sustainability has been embedded throughout the development of the convention centre, shaping both operations and the visitor experience.
Director of CX and marketing Tracey Ha says the rating reflects the depth of preparation behind the project.
“From food and beverage through to lighting, technology and building systems, decisions have been made with a clear understanding of environmental impact and how it can be reduced or offset,” Tracey says.
General manager of the New Zealand International Convention Centre Prue Daly says the recognition acknowledges the collective effort behind the venue’s delivery.
“This recognition is a credit to the many people who have contributed their expertise and commitment to shaping the venue,” Prue says. “As we prepare to welcome our first events, it reinforces the high standards we’ve set from the outset — for experience, sustainability and the legacy we aim to create for Auckland and New Zealand’s events industry.”
Opening in mid-February, the NZICC has already secured a programme of international and domestic events, including the International Coral Reef Symposium, the Kidney Kids Gala 2026, and performances by Six60, Bic Runga and The Pogues.
