Christchurch to Welcome New Zealand's BE Industry for BEIA Conference and The Bizzies 2026
Ōtautahi Christchurch will host New Zealand's business events community this October as the city welcomes both the Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) Conference 2026 and The Bizzies, the country's annual awards celebrating excellence across the sector.
Taking place from 28 to 29 October, the conference will bring together event professionals, destination representatives and industry stakeholders for two days of professional development, networking and discussions on the future of business events. The celebrations will culminate on 28 October with the second edition of The Bizzies, recognising outstanding achievements, innovation and impact across New Zealand's meetings and events industry.
The programme begins on 27 October with a welcome function at the recently opened One NZ Stadium, before moving to Christchurch Town Hall for the conference sessions. Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre will host the awards gala, showcasing three of the city's flagship venues throughout the week.
BEIA Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins said the programme has been designed to deliver meaningful learning and collaboration for both established professionals and organisations looking to expand their involvement in the sector.
"We are inviting organisations across the business events sector, BEIA Members, event organisers, clients, or those exploring this industry as part of their future business mix to consider attending Conference 2026 as a team, not only to share the experience, but also to cover more sessions and absorb a broader range of insights," she says.
The conference agenda will address many of the key issues currently influencing New Zealand's business events landscape, supported by a diverse line-up of speakers. Among them is economist Brad Olsen, who will examine the country's economic outlook ahead of the General Election scheduled for the following week.
"The programme has been designed around the key issues shaping our sector, supported by an impressive line-up of speakers. Economist Brad Olsen will share his perspective on the economic outlook, which is particularly timely with the General Election taking place the following week.
"We are also incredibly grateful for the support of Christchurch Airport, Venues Ōtautahi, Te Pae Christchurch, Celebrity Speakers and ChristchurchNZ whose contribution is helping make this year's conference experience even stronger."
Delegates will also be encouraged to extend their stay in Christchurch after the conference, with a range of exclusive offers providing the opportunity to experience the city's attractions and activities. Early-bird registration for the conference remains open until 20 September, while tickets for The Bizzies are available separately through the awards website.
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