Monday, August 4, 2025
Tourism New Zealand has set a milestone by winning 64 international conferences within the last year, adding an estimated $78.8 million to the country’s visitor economy. This was brought about by a growth in government investment, which spurred the Tourism New Zealand Business Events team to surpass bid goals and further reinforce New Zealand as a top destination for international conferences and events.
Record-Breaking Performance in FY2025
In the 2025 financial year, Tourism New Zealand surpassed its stretch target of securing 110 bids, achieving 112 bids valued at $173 million. This impressive result was made possible by a $3 million government funding boost that allowed the organization to exceed its initial goal of 90 bids worth $140 million. Additionally, the 100 resulted bids—comprising 64 wins and 36 losses—have demonstrated a clear upward trend in international business events activity.
The 64 successful bids secured in FY25 are expected to have a direct economic impact of $78.8 million. This revenue, however, represents just one facet of the broader economic benefits that these conferences bring to New Zealand. According to Penelope Ryan, Global Manager of Business Events at Tourism New Zealand, the impact extends beyond just economic contributions, driving research collaborations, investment opportunities, job creation, and knowledge sharing on global issues.
Key Conference Wins and Future Outlook
Some of the standout wins in the past year include prominent events such as the WONCA World Rural Health Conference 2026, the Asia-Pacific Intelligent Transport Systems Forum 2027, and the International Precision Dairy Farming Conference 2025. These prestigious events represent a mix of sectors including health, technology, and agriculture, showcasing New Zealand’s ability to host high-profile global gatherings.
Looking forward, Tourism New Zealand is aiming to further enhance its bid efforts. With an eye on FY2026, the organization is holding its stretch target of 110 bids while increasing its revenue target to $185 million. The strategic partnership between the government and private sector stakeholders continues to strengthen the national tourism strategy, ensuring long-term growth for New Zealand’s tourism economy.
Growth of Conference Pipelines and Regional Opportunities
The robust demand for business events is underscored by the expansion of New Zealand’s convention infrastructure, including the recently opened Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, the Tākina Wellington Convention & Exhibition Centre, and the upcoming New Zealand International Convention Centre in Auckland, which is set to open in February 2026. This growing network of venues has positioned New Zealand as a competitive player in the global events sector.
In the first month of the new financial year, Tourism New Zealand secured nine conference wins, with several being hosted in smaller regions such as Dunedin, Hamilton, and the Bay of Islands. These areas are increasingly popular for business events, thanks to their strong knowledge hubs and unique experiential learning opportunities that make conferences more interactive and enriching. According to Penelope Ryan, the manaakitanga (hospitality) and the combination of world-class venues and real-world experiences create a unique selling point for New Zealand, making it an attractive choice for international conference organizers.
The Role of Conferences in New Zealand’s Economic Growth
The success of these business events extends beyond the economic figures, with conferences helping to boost tourism and promote cultural exchange. The business events sector, by driving international attention to New Zealand’s natural and cultural assets, contributes to the country’s broader tourism and hospitality ecosystem. These events often act as a gateway for delegates and participants to explore New Zealand’s rich heritage, vibrant landscapes, and innovative industries. As the country continues to grow as a business tourism hub, these conferences play an increasingly pivotal role in New Zealand’s economic diversification, not just in tourism revenue but in global trade and investment opportunities.
New Zealand Tourism Growth and its Prospects
Tourism New Zealand’s achievement of hosting 64 international conferences in FY2025 proves the increasing significance of business tourism to New Zealand’s visitor economy. With ongoing investment in infrastructure and strategic collaborations, the country is poised to secure high-value conferences, boost economic development, and highlight New Zealand’s competitive advantage in global tourism and business events markets. As New Zealand consolidates its position as an ideal destination for conferences, it will increasingly provide unparallelled opportunities for learning exchange, cross-pollination, and cultural interaction.
