This Content Is Only For Subscribers
The New Zealand International Convention Centre has become the first convention centre in New Zealand to achieve EarthCheck Silver Certification, following an independent sustainability audit completed with zero non-conformities.
The certification marks a national first for the Auckland venue and makes NZICC the only New Zealand convention centre to achieve Silver status on its first EarthCheck assessment.
Sustainability milestone
EarthCheck is an international benchmarking and certification programme for the tourism and events sectors, assessing performance across areas including energy, water, carbon emissions, waste, community impact and employee engagement.
EarthCheck founder and chief executive Stewart Moore says NZICC achieved an exceptional result.
“Achieving EarthCheck Silver with zero non-conformities is an exceptional result.
“NZICC came to the audit fully prepared, with every system documented, every data point in order and no gaps identified across its evidence or procedures.”
Stewart says sustainability is embedded throughout the venue’s operations.
“What sets NZICC apart is that sustainability here isn’t a retrofit; it is foundational. The operational performance and cultural integrity we assessed speak for themselves, and that is exactly what the global events market is looking for.”
Built into operations
NZICC says its sustainability approach is guided by manaakitanga and its relationship with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, influencing decisions around food sourcing, waste reduction, energy management and community engagement.
NZICC director of CX and marketing Tracey Ha says the certification recognises the work undertaken across the venue.
“This is a major milestone and one we are incredibly proud of.
“Completing the audit with zero non-conformities is a powerful acknowledgement of the standards set across the venue, and of the care, rigour and commitment behind them.”
Supporting business events growth
Tracey says the achievement strengthens NZICC’s position as a venue for domestic and international events.
“This certification reinforces the role NZICC was built to play for Auckland and for Aotearoa.
“It gives our clients, partners and guests confidence that they are choosing a venue that operates to an internationally recognised sustainability standard, while still reflecting the values, culture and ambition of New Zealand.”
The certification comes as NZICC continues to establish itself in the business events market, with the venue recently hosting MEETINGS 2026, New Zealand’s largest business events trade show. The centre says the EarthCheck accreditation provides assurance for event organisers seeking venues with independently verified sustainability credentials.
