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More than 600 buyers from New Zealand and international markets will gather in Auckland next week for MEETINGS 2026, New Zealand’s largest business events showcase.
The event, organised by Business Events Industry Aotearoa, will run from June 16-18 at the New Zealand International Convention Centre, bringing together more than 250 exhibitors from 18 regions.
Industry showcase
More than 1,500 delegates are expected to attend the three-day programme, with around 6,000 pre-scheduled business appointments planned.
International buyers are travelling from Australia, South-East Asia, China, India, Japan and North America to meet with regional destinations, venues, accommodation providers and experience operators from across New Zealand.
BEIA chief executive Lisa Hopkins says this year’s event will mark a significant milestone for the sector.
“MEETINGS 2026 will be a landmark event for the industry at New Zealand’s newest and largest convention centre.
“This year the opening, trade show and celebration events are all being held under the one roof at the NZICC, within walking distance of most host hotels, creating a totally connected experience.”
International buyers
Lisa says more than 105 Australian business event organisers and media representatives will attend the event.
“At least half of our buyers are new to MEETINGS this year, and are yet to experience Auckland and the NZICC.”
Supported by Air New Zealand, Tourism New Zealand and host hotel partners, buyers will have opportunities to experience Auckland and other regions before and after the showcase.
Seven regional convention bureaux and Air New Zealand are supporting pre- and post-event familiarisation visits, while Auckland Convention Bureau will host city tours for buyers and media ahead of the official opening.
NZICC milestone
Hosting MEETINGS represents one of the first major industry events for the NZICC since opening.
NZICC general manager Prue Daly says the event is an important occasion for the venue.
“Hosting MEETINGS 2026, New Zealand’s premier business events showcase, is one of the most meaningful milestones in NZICC’s opening year.
“After years in the making, welcoming our own industry, clients and friends to share our venue, purpose-built for connection, creativity and collaboration feels especially significant.”
Open to event organisers
The exhibition component of MEETINGS will take place on June 17-18 and is open to organisers of conferences, corporate events, incentive programmes, exhibitions, product launches, roadshows and team-building activities.
Industry viewing hours will run from 2.30pm to 4pm on both exhibition days.
MEETINGS is regarded as New Zealand’s flagship business events trade exhibition and provides a platform for destinations and suppliers to showcase their offerings to domestic and international buyers.
