With the number of media remaining the same, the sizeable increase in attendance in 2025 compared to 2024 was all buyers, with many more day buyers as well as higher levels of Australian buyers.
The organiser of the event, Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA), also released independent research into the value of business catalysed by MEETINGS this year, which shows New Zealand’s industry activity remains slightly subdued.
Despite the major increase in the number of buyers this year, the research forecast the same value of deals between buyers and sellers over the next three years as was estimated after the 2024 show – $110 million.
This is considerably down on the record $157 million worth of deals forecast after MEETINGS 2023.
“This result isn’t unexpected given current domestic and international economic challenges, and is likely a reflection of event organisers tending to consider shorter lead times in booking at the moment,” said BEIA chief executive, Lisa Hopkins.
“What it also tells us is that MEETINGS is vital for establishing a pipeline of business, as well as for building those connections that will come to fruition in the future. Doing the mahi (work) now helps future-proof the sector.”
There were a record number of exhibitor stands – 250 – and a record number of Australian buyers and media – 126 – at the event in 2025. Altogether, 1,200 people attended MEETINGS this year, with 700 attendees at the welcome function at Eden Park and 650 at the closing celebration at the Viaduct Events Centre.
“We saw plenty of energy and optimism on the show floor and received incredible and constructive feedback from buyers and exhibitors,” said Hopkins.
“They’ve told us MEETINGS is an essential part of their calendar, how good it is to meet face-to-face in New Zealand, and how much the friendly and welcoming hospitality (manaakitanga) and the strong cultural ethos meant to them.
“Our buyers commented on the cohesiveness New Zealand displays within our regions, with suppliers recommending or collaborating with others to tailor the best solutions for clients. That is such an important point of difference.”
The New Zealand Government also chose MEETINGS to announce NZ$3 million in additional funding for the attraction of international business events to the country, via Tourism New Zealand’s business events team.
MEETINGS will remain in Auckland in 2026 and is set to be held at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) for the first time, following its February opening.
“We anticipate the biggest MEETINGS ever next year,” said Hopkins.
“The BEIA team is working closely with the teams at NZICC and Auckland Convention Bureau to open up registration and hosted buyer applications for 2026 as early as possible.”
