This Content Is Only For Subscribers
Registrations open on April 22 for day buyers attending MEETINGS 2026, New Zealand’s largest business events exhibition, to be held on June 17 and 18 in Auckland.
For the first time, the event will take place at New Zealand International Convention Centre, bringing together 215 exhibitors and more than 500 buyers from New Zealand, Australia and key international markets.
Run by Business Events Industry Aotearoa, the day buyer programme is free for anyone planning a business event in New Zealand.
BEIA head of event delivery Chris Peak says MEETINGS is the country’s biggest annual gathering of business events professionals and suppliers.
“It’s a once-a-year opportunity to catch up with over 200 exhibitors from every region of New Zealand all under one roof, and to make the most of valuable networking and education sessions.”
Day buyers travelling from outside Auckland can access a $100 flight rebate, discounted airport transfers with SkyDrive Express and industry accommodation rates.
Hobbiton activation on show floor
Among the exhibition attractions, Hobbiton Movie Set will recreate part of The Shire with a full-scale Hobbit Hole built by the same team that maintains the Matamata attraction.
General manager tourism for the Hobbiton Movie Set Shayne Forrest says the activation will showcase what visitors can expect onsite.
“We’re thrilled to be bringing a piece of The Shire from our slice of real Middle-earth in Matamata to the MEETINGS show floor this year.”
“Those who visit the Hobbit Hole will get a glimpse of what awaits them during a visit to Hobbiton Movie Set and the magic that makes New Zealand an unforgettable destination for any event.”
Buyer options and speaker sessions
Hosted buyers will have at least 32 pre-scheduled appointments, while day buyers can choose how much time they spend at the event across the two days.
The 2026 Celebrity Speakers NZ Showcase will feature two lunchtime sessions. June 17 will be hosted by Madison Malone, while June 18 will be led by Luke Bird, including a live performance.
