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The countdown is on for HNZ26, with the country’s largest hospitality and accommodation conference set to bring industry leaders, suppliers and operators to Rotorua next month.
Hosted at the Energy Events Centre on June 23 and 24, the event is expected to attract hundreds of delegates from across New Zealand’s hospitality and accommodation sectors.
International and local speakers confirmed
The conference programme includes keynote presentations from international hospitality strategist Preston Lee, flavour researcher and author Atilla Bús, and New Zealand digital creator Louis Davis.
Sessions will cover industry performance, technology, workforce development and future trends across hospitality and accommodation.
Largest trade floor yet
Hospitality New Zealand says this year’s trade exhibition will be its biggest to date, featuring hospitality technology, sustainability solutions and food and beverage suppliers.
Hospitality NZ chief executive Kristy Phillips says the event is designed to support businesses looking to grow and evolve.
“HNZ26 is for anyone in the hospitality and accommodation sector looking at ways to improve, grow, and better their business.
“From inspiring keynotes and expert panels, to a buzzing trade expo and networking and social opportunities, HNZ26 will unpack the sector’s challenges and showcase the opportunities that will advance the industry.”
Awards programme highlights
The conference theme, Manaakitanga in Motion, focuses on celebrating hospitality and accommodation professionals and the experiences they create.
The event will also host the LION Hospitality New Zealand Awards for Excellence across two evenings, recognising both businesses and individuals in the sector.
The awards include the People’s Awards for Excellence, sponsored by DB Breweries, and the LION Hospitality Business Awards, sponsored by LION.
Broadcaster Trudi Nelson will MC the conference, while comedian Simon McKinney will host the black-tie awards evening.
