Wellington Wins Home Economics World Congress

Wellington will host the World Congress of the International Federation for Home Economics (IFHE) in 2028, the first time the event has been held in New Zealand.

The congress will take place at Tākina Wellington Convention & Exhibition Centre. It is expected to attract more than 700 world experts to the city across academia, community services, agricultural extension, businesses, government, and health services.

The winning bid was led by Sarah Wirth, HoD Technology Samuel Marsden Collegiate School, Vice President IFHE Pacific, and Executive Member of the Home Economics and Technology Teachers’ Association of New Zealand (HETTANZ). Business Events Wellington and Tourism New Zealand Business Events supported the bid.

The IFHE has had consultative status at the United Nations for more than 70 years, with its work supporting UN Sustainable Development Goals. Wirth says hosting the federation’s world congress will be a great showcase of the New Zealanders who educate individuals and communities on critical issues including sustainable living, health, nutrition, family well-being, and economic empowerment.

Wellington was chosen as host city for its amazing food and innovation in textiles and sustainable practices, as well as being a safe, walkable city, with great facilities at Tākina, Wirth adds.

“We are excited to present New Zealand as a hub for visionary approaches in Home Economics. This Congress will not only showcase our nation's entrepreneurial spirit and talent but also reaffirm our commitment to global sustainability and inclusive development."

Hosting the congress in New Zealand also provides a unique opportunity to bring together delegates from Pacific nations, providing diverse perspectives and shared expertise. The event was last held in the Oceania region in 2012, when it took place in Melbourne.

“It’s fantastic to be able to host a world congress of this scale and nature in Wellington, at our new convention centre, Tākina,” adds Business Events Wellington Manager Irette Ferreira. 

“We look forward to welcoming home economists from around the world to share their knowledge and showcase Aotearoa New Zealand’s expertise in 2028.”

Tourism New Zealand General Manager NZ & Business Events Bjoern Spreitzer adds: “Attracting the World Congress of the International Federation for Home Economics is an excellent example of the positive economic and wider social benefits that business events deliver to New Zealand. I hope the delegates get a chance to enjoy all that Aotearoa New Zealand has to offer while they are here.”