Auckland Convention Bureau (ACB) has reported strong results for the year ending June 2018, with the New Zealand city winning more than 100 business events worth a total $45 million.
ACB worked closely with its members and industry partners to secure the events, which will take place over the next nine years.
Anna Hayward, head of ACB, says it was a hugely successful year for the team.
“These wins will see the region host more than 52,848 international and domestic delegates between 2018 and 2027, who will stay a total of 120,834 visitor nights,” she says.
Another highlight for the bureau was the launch of the Auckland International Business Events Advisory Group (AIBEAG).
The group brings together business events experts and leaders who will work together to further enhance Auckland’s reputation and presence in the international market place.
Earlier this year, Auckland Tourism, Events & Economic Development (ATEED) launched the Destination AKL 2025 strategy, which includes a strong focus on business events.
ATEED general manager destination Steve Armitage says the agency will be putting more resources and energy into pursuing business events as part of the strategy.
“The Destination AKL 2025 Strategy recognises the importance of business events to our region, with current forecasts suggesting that the total value of the sector will reach $438 million in 2025,” he says.
“We want to make sure we remain competitive with other destinations and are primed to maximise the opportunities that new developments like the New Zealand International Convention Centre bring to the region, as well as leveraging the global spotlight of hosting events such as the 36th America’s Cup and APEC events in 2021.”
