The gold standard is the highest possible level of sustainability assurance offered by Qualmark, which is run by Tourism New Zealand and offers sustainability accreditation specifically for the visitor economy sector.
Qualmark assesses businesses across a variety of areas of sustainability, including health and safety, business systems, the environment, people and community and culture.
“NZICC’s achievement of a Qualmark Gold Award highlights its strong commitment to delivering a high-quality, sustainable visitor experience,” said Qualmark’s general manager, Steven Dixon.
“This accreditation reflects industry-leading practices across sustainability, safety, and manaakitanga, and demonstrates NZICC’s readiness to open as a benchmark for excellence in Aotearoa’s business events sector.”
The five-level convention centre is opening next week, on February 11.
“Qualmark Gold reflects the depth of work that’s gone into preparing the NZICC to operate,” says NZICC’s director of customer experience and marketing, Tracey Ha.
“From food and beverage through to lighting, technology and building systems, decisions have been made with a clear understanding of environmental impact and how it can be reduced or offset.”
The NZICC’s general manager, Prue Daly, called the accreditation “a moment of pure pride”.
“This recognition is a credit to the many people who have contributed their expertise and commitment to shaping the venue,” said Daly.
“As we prepare to welcome our first events, it reinforces the high standards we’ve set from the outset – for experience, sustainability and the legacy we aim to create for Auckland and New Zealand’s events industry.”
The convention centre has more than 120 events confirmed for 2026, including international and global conferences as well as public talks and concerts.
