New Zealand’s government has allocated an additional $3 million to help secure international business events, aiming to boost economic growth, job creation, and enhance the country’s global competitiveness.
The funding, announced today by Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, Louise Upston, at the Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre, will be drawn from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy. This investment is expected to generate over $30 million in incremental spending, providing a significant economic boost for New Zealand.
Strengthening New Zealand’s Competitive Edge
The newly allocated funds will enhance Tourism New Zealand’s Conference Assistance Programme, designed to help secure major conferences and high-value incentive business that drive economic growth. Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) Chief Executive, Lisa Hopkins, praised the decision as a key milestone for the sector, highlighting its role as a powerful engine for economic and social benefits.
“This investment demonstrates the Government’s confidence in the business events sector as a key growth area,” Hopkins said. “It also puts us on more equal footing with Australia, which has long been a leader in attracting international events.”
Business Events: A High-Value Sector Driving Growth
The global business events industry is valued at $1.6 trillion, and New Zealand is positioning itself as a competitive player with its world-class infrastructure. The country’s investment in state-of-the-art venues such as Te Pae Christchurch, Tākina Wellington, and the soon-to-be-completed New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) in Auckland underscores the sector’s growth potential.
“These three venues alone will create 1,400 new jobs, generate over 300,000 room nights annually, and contribute more than $150 million in direct economic impact,” Hopkins explained. “This doesn’t even include the additional tourism revenue from international delegates who extend their stays to explore New Zealand.”
Proven Economic Impact
The economic benefits of the business events sector are already becoming clear. An Infometrics analysis shows that the Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre contributed $77 million to New Zealand’s GDP and supported 693 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs in the year leading up to November 2024.
“Business events not only bring immediate economic returns but also create lasting legacies through knowledge exchange, global partnerships, and sector-wide collaboration,” said Hopkins. “They boost visitor spending during off-peak seasons, drive innovation across industries, and elevate New Zealand’s global reputation.”
Collaboration Across the Industry
The new funding will support universities, industry associations, and event organisers in bidding for international conferences, as well as attracting high-value incentive groups—a lucrative segment of the tourism sector.
“This initiative is a team effort, involving Tourism New Zealand, regional convention bureaux, professional conference organisers, venues, hotels, and a wide range of industries including hospitality, technology, and creative services,” Hopkins said. “Together, we’re building a strong and competitive business events ecosystem.”
A Strategic Tourism Boost
This funding forms part of the Government’s broader Tourism Boost package, developed in partnership with industry stakeholders to drive visitor growth, enhance export activity, and stimulate economic development.
“With strong infrastructure, a compelling value proposition, and now additional government support, New Zealand is well-positioned to attract more international business events and cement its status as a premier destination for conferences and incentives,” Hopkins concluded.
