The business events industry will converge on New Zealand’s vibrant capital in June for the first time in the event’s 27-year history.

Run by Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA), MEETINGS is New Zealand’s premier business events tradeshow with 100 hosted and semi-hosted buyers and media from Australia, 134 hosted buyers from New Zealand and 10 from international markets including North America and Singapore attending. Up to 300 buyers from Wellington and around New Zealand are also expected to attend for one day.

To add to the excitement, the event will be held in the city’s brand-new convention and exhibition centre, Tākina.

“We’re super excited to show Tākina off to our industry, and to highlight how we can support organisations to successfully bring their business events here,” says Business Events Wellington manager Irette Ferreira.

“Our stand will showcase all that Wellington has to offer as we enter into a new era of business events and strive to position our city as New Zealand’s events capital.”

The Wellington regional stand, hosted by Business Events Wellington, has an exciting line-up of activities planned.

“This will be our biggest stand in history, with 20 stand partners participating,” says a delighted Irette.

Among those taking part include newcomers Wellington Zoo, Public Trust Hall and Red Pebble, in addition to Wairarapa gems Moy Hall Vineyard, Copthorne Solway Park, The Martinborough Hotel and Destination Wairarapa.

“Buyers and visitors can earn vouchers or points to redeem at our ‘Made in Wellington’ store lined with tasty goodies from our region, along with a few extra surprises,” says Irette.

MEETINGS guests this year will not only be among the first to experience New Zealand’s newest venue in action, but they’ll also get to check out the diverse and vibrant events scene in the capital thanks to a busy famil calendar and social programme.

Business Events Wellington will host more than 160 buyers for a day out in the city exploring hidden gems, and the team is looking forward to showcasing Wellington’s hospitality at its finest at the two official social functions organised by BEIA.