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Business Events Industry Aotearoa has welcomed a $1 million Government investment aimed at attracting more international conferences to New Zealand.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston announced the funding during MEETINGS 2026 at the New Zealand International Convention Centre in Auckland.
The funding will support Tourism New Zealand’s Conference Assistance Programme, which helps secure international conferences for New Zealand.
BEIA chief executive Lisa Hopkins says the investment will strengthen the country’s ability to compete for high-value business events.
“It’s fitting that the Government’s investment into business events has been announced at MEETINGS, the country’s largest business events trade show, where destinations, venues, suppliers and buyers are creating the next wave of business for New Zealand,” Lisa says.
“This funding will help strengthen that pipeline and support New Zealand to compete for more high-value international conferences.”
A report released by BEIA earlier this year found multi-day conferences generated $925 million in economic activity during 2025 and delivered more than 735,000 international visitor nights.
Lisa says the benefits of business events extend beyond direct visitor spending.
“International conferences bring decision-makers, researchers, investors, entrepreneurs and industry leaders to New Zealand. They create opportunities for knowledge to be exchanged, and for investment, innovation, and impactful international connections.”
Lisa says the latest funding announcement demonstrates continued Government confidence in the sector and will help attract events that support industry development and international engagement.
Tqhe announcement was made during MEETINGS 2026, New Zealand’s largest business events trade show, which has brought together more than 600 buyers and exhibitors from across New Zealand and international markets.
