Christchurch to Host Professional Conference Organisers' Association Conference 2025

Ōtautahi Christchurch is set to host the next Professional Conference Organisers' Association (PCOA) conference in December 2025.

The PCOA Conference is heading to New Zealand for only the second time in its history, with over 400 leading conference and event organisers from Australia and New Zealand expected to attend. ChristchurchNZ, Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre and Christchurch Airport collaborated on the bid to bring the prestigious event to Christchurch.

Because of the impact PCOs have on driving conferences to destinations, the PCOA Conference creates a significant opportunity for Christchurch to attract future business events to the city and continue to build on its reputation as a leading place for delegates to come together and connect.

ChristchurchNZ Chief Executive, Ali Adams says Ōtautahi Christchurch is an exciting conference destination and its world class facilities will be a drawcard for delegates to next year's three-day event: “We are so proud to host the PCOA conference in 2025, and we look forward to extending the warmest manaakitanga (welcome) to all PCOA attendees travelling to Ōtautahi.

“We can't wait to showcase our conference-ready city to the people who know best — this prestigious group of professional conference organisers, in-house event planners, and meeting industry professionals,” Adams said.

“Christchurch is in the midst of an exciting time in its history. It is a brand-new city, with an eye on the future. It is also home to Aotearoa New Zealand's oldest collection of heritage buildings. The city is enriched with culture, inspired by our tangata whenua (indigenous people). It is a place full of balance, with space to gather, connect with nature and experience many unique attractions.

“Our business events community is a powerhouse, full of support and expertise, and because of its boutique size, our close-knit industry goes above and beyond for our conference organisers and delegates.”

Te Pae Christchurch, General Manager Ross Steele said, “We are delighted to be working with ChristchurchNZ and PCOA to showcase our world-class convention centre and share our journey to Toitū net carbonzero. Our experienced team look forward to delivering a warm welcome, shining a spotlight on our beautiful city to top conference and event organisers, and to help drive future business for our city.”

Barry Neame, PCOA President, said the PCOA was thrilled to announce Christchurch, New Zealand as the destination for PCOA25: "Returning to New Zealand is always a privilege, and Christchurch's dynamic energy and innovative spirit make it the perfect host city.” 

“This decision reflects our dedication to celebrating the PCOA's commitment to the growth and success of the business events industry in New Zealand and Australia by providing another platform for professional and skill development of practitioners in our industry sector."

“Te Pae Christchurch is a world-class facility, with spectacular surroundings, and the promise to deliver an unforgettable experience for attendees, sponsors and exhibitors alike. We look forward to collaborating with our Kiwi friends and the Christchurch community to create a conference that will inspire, connect, and strengthen our industry,” Neame said.

Next year's destination was announced at the close of PCOA24 in Brisbane today (December 3) with a traditional Māori cultural performance. This was enriched with a treasured Māori cultural presentation that elevated Aotearoa New Zealand's most-prized possession, the Pounamu or greenstone.

PCOA25 will be held from 7 to 9 December 2025 at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre.