The conference will be held at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) which opens this week.
Running November 5 to 10, 2028, WPATH is expected to attract 1,300 delegates, ranging from researchers to clinicians, educators, policy makers and community leaders.
The bid was led by Dr Elizabeth McElrea, a New Zealand doctor and board member of the World Professional Association of Transgender Health, and Jennifer Shields, the president of the Professional Association of Transgender Health Aotearoa.
“Bringing the WPATH 2028 Scientific Symposium to Tāmaki Makaurau – and to Oceania for the first time – is incredibly significant,” said Shields.
“The symposium creates a vital space to share evidence, lived experience and best practice, supporting access to gender-affirming care internationally and grounded in the rights of trans people to bodily autonomy and self-determination.
“Tāmaki Makaurau offers a welcoming, inclusive environment for clinicians, researchers and community leaders to connect, learn and advance equity in health outcomes, and we’re excited to showcase Aotearoa to colleagues from around the world.”
Bid support came from both Auckland Convention Bureau and Tourism New Zealand Business Events.
“Aotearoa New Zealand has a history of leading progressive policy, inclusion and healthcare and it is very timely that, during the Auckland Pride Festival, we can share Tāmaki Makaurau will host WPATH 2028,” said head of Auckland Convention Bureau, Ken Pereira.
“Securing this symposium reflects Auckland’s reputation as an open, inclusive and globally connected region that welcomes important conversations and advances in health and wellbeing.
“WPATH is a values-led, knowledge-driven event and Auckland offers the right environment to support meaningful exchange – from world-class facilities to a strong health, research and community sector.
“We look forward to welcoming delegates and showcasing a region that embraces diversity and innovation, while creating lasting social and economic benefits for Aucklanders,” said Pereira.
The event is forecast to have an economic impact of NZ$3.1 million and generate 7,300 visitor nights for the city.
