This Content Is Only For Subscribers
Tourism Industry Aotearoa has unveiled the theme for Tourism Summit Aotearoa 2026 and announced China tourism expert George Cao as the event’s first keynote speaker.
The annual summit, to be held at Te Pae Christchurch on November 4, will be held under the theme Tourism Inc: Distinctive by Design, exploring how purposeful decision-making can strengthen New Zealand’s tourism offering and global competitiveness.
TIA chief executive Rebecca Ingram says the summit will examine how tourism businesses and the wider sector can create experiences that are uniquely New Zealand.
“Each year Tourism Summit Aotearoa gives us the opportunity to bring the industry together, through a mix of international and local perspectives, looking at how tourism can continue to grow across all regions and at all levels of business.
“This year we’ll examine how purposeful decisions can help create competitive advantage, drive innovation, strengthen global competitiveness and shape experiences that could only come from Aotearoa New Zealand.”
Co-founder and chief executive of Dragon Trail International, George Cao, will deliver the first keynote address. Dragon Trail specialises in China market intelligence, digital marketing and consumer insights for the tourism sector.
Tourism New Zealand general manager international Angela Blair says Cao’s expertise will help businesses better understand evolving travel trends, technology and distribution channels across Asia.
Registrations for Tourism Summit Aotearoa are now open, with early bird registrations available until July 30. The summit will again be held alongside the New Zealand Tourism Awards at Te Pae Christchurch.
