Tourism New Zealand Reports Record NZ$78.8 Million in Conference Bookings
The Tourism New Zealand Business Events team achieved a remarkable milestone in its 2025 financial year, surpassing its bid targets significantly.
New Zealand Conference Wins
Tourism New Zealand confirmed 64 international conference wins last year, estimated to contribute NZ$78.8 million to the country’s visitor economy. The Business Events team achieved record bid targets with the help of NZ$3 million in government funding announced in March 2025.
With a total of 112 bids made worth NZ$173 million, they exceeded their original goal of 90 bids valued at NZ$140 million. Out of 100 bids, 64 were successful, resulting in this substantial economic impact.
Benefits of a Thriving MICE Sector
Penelope Ryan, the Global Manager for Business Events, stated: “The economic impact doesn’t fully capture the advantages of hosting these events—these include research collaborations, investment opportunities, job creation, and worldwide recognition of New Zealand’s universities.”
Wins include major conferences like:
- WONCA World Rural Health Conference (2026)
- Asia-Pacific Intelligent Transport Systems Forum (2027)
- World Indigenous Cancer Conference (2026)
- International Precision Dairy Farming Conference (2025)
Ryan noted that with the continued support from the government, they plan to aim for NZ$185 million in value for FY26, demonstrating the importance of business events for New Zealand’s economy.
