More than 650 business event specialists were welcomed to Auckland’s Aotea Centre on Tuesday night for Conventions and Incentives New Zealand’s (CINZ) two-day annual showcase, MEETINGS which is underway at ASB Showgrounds on Wednesday.
CINZ chief executive Sue Sullivan says MEETINGS is New Zealand’s top event for connecting influential domestic, Australian and international buyers with all New Zealand’s regions and top event facilities, accommodation, off-site venues and activities.
“MEETINGS is an important showcase for New Zealand’s unique culture of manaakitanga (warm hospitality). Sensational events like last night’s welcome are a chance for us to throw the spotlight on our exceptional venues, food, styling, and entertainment,” says Sue.
More than 190 exhibitors and 500 buyers are gathering for 6,000 meetings during the two days of pre-scheduled appointments and social networking events.
MEETINGS’ welcome function showcased Auckland Conventions, Venues and Events’ flagship venue, the newly refurbished Aotea Centre, with event management by The Events Group.
“Having this venue back after its multi-million-dollar redesign and rebuild is a big boost for Auckland’s event offerings. The Aotea Centre is Auckland’s home to the creative performing arts, and we will be showcasing this by demonstrating snippets of what can be achieved in this stunning new contemporary space,” she says.
New Zealand’s top supplier of aerial and cirque entertainment, The Dust Palace demonstrated some of their bespoke show pieces alongside talented musicians, with visuals by Big Picture and sound and lighting from Auckland Live. Catering from the Kitchen at SkyCity included cocktail food and wine to match the contemporary styling.
“Today our buyers are out on the show floor soaking up all the incredible ideas, latest trends and magical experiences they can take back to their clients for conference and incentive events,” says Sue.
New this year, the Hononga Lounge, sponsored by CINZ member Hireplants, will offer a breakout and relaxation area for hosted buyers featuring a live green wall. Hononga in Māori means joining place, connection and relationship.
Shotz Ltd is showcasing one of its new activations, a Virtual Greeter called Sue, at MEETINGS this year. She will be meeting and greeting in the entrance of the ASB Showgrounds in the mornings and roving around the show floor throughout the day.
CINZ MEETINGS 2019 is open to anyone who organises business events, meetings, conferences, exhibitions and incentive travel. Registration is free at www.meetings.co.nz/daybuyer
