This Content Is Only For Subscribers
New Zealand’s business events industry night of nights took place high above Rotorua at the Skyline Gondola on top of Mt Ngongotahā yesterday, June 20.
After two days of business, the finale night was a celebration of colour, themed ‘Rio comes to Rotorua’.
BEIA chief executive Lisa Hopkins says MEETINGS’ celebration dinners are legendary and 2024 was no different with the ultimate party at Skyline Rotorua.
More than 700 guests brought their energy, and their most colourful attire to celebrate the biggest week in the business events calendar.
For one night only, Rio came to Rotorua for the MEETINGS 2024 finale. Guests rode to the mountain top for a night of colour, culinary delights and captivating entertainment.
A bespoke Brazilian-inspired menu was served across seven different food stations, created by Skyline’s award-winning Stratosfare restaurant.
Guests had a chance to experience the longest luge tracks in the world, under floodlights high above MEETINGS’ host city, and to indulge in a first-class line up of entertainment.
Partners for the evening were Skyline Rotorua, RotoruaNZ, Activities and Events Unlimited, The Production Agency and Johnston’s Coachlines.
Best Stand Awards 2024
Earlier, the 2024 Best Stand Awards were announced, voted for by hosted buyers and presented by Meeting Newz magazine at the Tourism New Zealand stand. The criteria included initial impact, overall presentation and ambience of the stand, effectiveness of stand personnel, and the presentation of marketing collateral available on the stand.
The winners were:
Best New Exhibitor– Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa
Amongst a record 35 new exhibitors, this one stood out. The winner of this award also played an integral part in the hosting of buyers over the last few days and their generosity in opening their doors to allow so many people to experience one of Rotorua’s latest experiences has been hugely appreciated.
Best Individual Stand Award– Millennium Hotels and Resorts
This year’s winner embraced the opportunity to incorporate Matariki into their offerings, specifically by encouraging buyers to cultivate, grow and harvest their own food through their distribution of seeds.
Best Regional Stand– Ōtautahi Christchurch
This year’s overwhelming regional winner created an inviting space that was a real feast for the senses and a beautiful area to showcase their equally stunning region.
