Maximum Occupancy New Zealand 2026 Unveils Speaker Line-up
This year’s speaker line-up represents every corner of the accommodation and tourism ecosystem.
The conference returns to Auckland with over 30 speakers confirmed. Bringing together leading hoteliers, tourism executives, technology innovators, and industry bodies, the event promises a full day of insights aimed at boosting revenue and enhancing direct bookings for accommodation operators.
Delegates will learn strategies to adapt to changing demands, improve direct booking performance, and reduce reliance on Online Travel Agents (OTAs).
Who’s coming to Auckland?
This year’s line-up includes:
- Hon. Louise Upston – Minister for Tourism and Hospitality
- Craig Bonner – Managing Director, Cordis Auckland
- Lisa Hopkins – Chief Executive, BEIA
- Prue Daly – General Manager, NZICC
- Kirsty Phillips – Chief Executive, HNZ
- Karl Luxon – CEO, Scenic Hotel Group
- Rod Munro – Managing Director Australasia, BWH Hotels
- Tim Alpe – Managing Director, Lylo
- David Ovendale – CEO, TOP10 Holiday Parks
- James Doolan – Hotel Council Aotearoa
- Paul Wilson – Vice President Hospitality APAC, Amadeus (visiting from Bangkok)
- Michael Stamboulidis – General Manager, QT Auckland
- Raymond Faulkner – Vice President Operations, Swiss-Belhotel International
With a strong representation from global hotel brands and technology providers, the 2026 event is set to be one of the most promising in history.
