May 25, 2022 | By Bronwen Largier
The incredible bounce back of the events industry is continuing with New Zealand’s flagship business events trade show from industry association Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) attracting 211 exhibition stands from business events products and services across New Zealand’s 18 regions.
The show will also be attended by 110 Australian buyers and 300 New Zealand buyers as well as media, including micenet.
The event is being held at the recent opened Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, the first of New Zealand’s new generation convention centres to debut. This is the first time the show will be held in Christchurch since the 2011 earthquake devastated the city – two thirds of the city’s buildings were demolished due to damage from the quake.
“This is a rare opportunity to see and experience Te Pae Christchurch in action hosting a large event over multiple spaces,” said BEIA chief executive Lisa Hopkins.
Alongside pre-scheduled appointments, MEETINGS will also host two key initiatives from Tourism New Zealand – a series of knowledge sessions for event organisers drawing on talent and perspectives from both within and outside of the industry; and a showcase of new product from the New Zealand regions event planners may not be as familiar with.
“We want to really showcase our smaller regions, spanning every possibility of landscape and activities – coastal, alpine, urban, wildlife, cultural, and food and wine, and silos of knowledge, all with excellent venues, accommodation and distinctive local hospitality,” said Hopkins.
“For example, Kaikōura on the South Island’s East Coast, where the mountains meet the sea, is opening the new 120 room, 4.5-star Sudima Hotel Kaikōura in October with two conference and event venues.
“Fantastic new products in the region include helicopter tours, wildlife experiences, and The Coastal Pacific train between Christchurch and Picton.
“In the centre of the North Island, set on New Zealand’s largest lake, Taupo region’s unique volcanic landscape has a wide range of accommodation options, from intimate boutique lodges in breathtaking surroundings to dedicated conference venues and resorts and a range of top-tier activities from scenic flights and bespoke nature experiences to spa packages and luxury escapes.”
Hosted buyers from Australia also have the opportunity to attend pre and post famils in other New Zealand destinations, while day buyers from New Zealand are being offered a $100 air travel rebate to come to Christchurch, providing they spend a full day on the show floor.