MEETINGS 2026 Generates Record NZD170 Million in Projected Business
MEETINGS 2026 has delivered the strongest commercial results in its history, generating a projected NZD170 million in future business—55% more than the previous edition and the highest value recorded since the trade event was established nearly three decades ago.
Held at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) in June, the event attracted a record 1,600 delegates, including more than 700 qualified buyers and over 260 exhibitors representing 19 regions. Buyer participation increased by 20% compared with 2025, contributing to the sharp rise in projected business generated through meetings held during the event.
According to the Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA), the figures are based on independently verified surveys completed by hosted and day buyers, who were asked to estimate the total value of business they expect to place following the event.
BEIA Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins said the results reflect growing confidence in New Zealand's business events sector and reinforce the strategic importance of MEETINGS as the country's flagship trade exhibition.
“This reinforces the positive momentum which is being felt across the sector, with strong interest from both domestic and international buyers to hold business events in New Zealand. It also underscores the importance of MEETINGS as the industry's flagship trade event, connecting the industry with key decision-makers and creating opportunities that translate into future business,” she said.
While the proportion of buyers expecting to place business remained broadly in line with last year's event, the average value of projected bookings increased significantly, resulting in a 55% rise in overall projected turnover.
Hopkins also highlighted the positive feedback received from participants, pointing to the event's continued role in fostering commercial relationships across the industry.
“The strong satisfaction scores from exhibitors and visitors show the quality of the connections taking place and the importance of MEETINGS for building new partnerships and future events,” Hopkins said.
The 2027 edition will mark the 30th anniversary of MEETINGS, a milestone for an event that has played a central role in connecting buyers and suppliers across New Zealand's business events industry for three decades.
“Next year marks 30 years of MEETINGS, a significant milestone for an event that has welcomed thousands of decision-makers, organisers and planners, and resulted in billions of dollars being pumped into New Zealand's economy over the past three decades.”
The 30th edition of MEETINGS will take place at the NZICC in Auckland on 29–30 June 2027.
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