Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland has grown to become one of the most sought-after Asia-Pacific destinations for business events. With new luxury hotels, refurbished venues, and extraordinary experiences tailored to reward high-achieving teams, Aotearoa, New Zealand’s largest city is elevating the incentive travel scene. Here is why we think Auckland is the perfect place to hold your next incentive or conference.
Seamless Connectivity
With improved air connectivity and direct flights from key international hubs, Auckland is now more accessible than ever. Auckland International Airport is currently undertaking a huge expansion, which is set to finish in late 2025. The ongoing enhancements will ensure smooth and efficient arrival and departure procedures, reducing travel fatigue and making it easier for groups to maximise their time in this vibrant City of Sails.
Air New Zealand is set to unveil its new Business Premier and Business Premier Luxe in May 2025, an upgrade offer as part of a new redesigned interior which will give travellers a connection to Aotearoa as soon as they step onboard. From 2026, the airline will add SkyNest to its offer on long-haul flights where economy class travellers can book a sleep pod for up to four hours.
Qantas Airlines has enhanced the frequency of its Auckland-New York service recently as it strengthens its presence in North America. As of October 2024, the airline is now operating six weekly non-stop flights between the two cities, up from four times a week. American Airlines offers daily direct services from Dallas and Los Angeles to Auckland between December and March, while Delta flies daily from Los Angeles to Auckland between October to March.
World-Class hotels and venues
Auckland has recently welcomed a wave of luxury hotels that cater specifically to the corporate incentive market. The Park Hyatt Auckland offers waterfront luxury with breathtaking views, while The Hotel Britomart, New Zealand’s first 5 Green Star hotel (below), seamlessly blends sustainability with sophistication. For grand gala dinners and exclusive events, the newly constructed New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) will be a game-changer when it opens in February 2026, offering cutting-edge facilities right in the heart of the CBD.
Unforgettable experiences
Incentive travel is all about creating unforgettable moments, and Auckland delivers in spades. Groups can start the day with an ex-America’s Cup harbour sailing experience, followed by an exclusive kapa haka Māori cultural performance that combines song, dance and chanting or a Mihi Whakatau – an interactive welcome ceremony or explore the profound significance and meaning of the haka. For adrenaline seekers, a private zipline tour on Waiheke Island or a heli-dining experience at an exclusive vineyard offers a taste of adventure with a gourmet twist. Or for an immersive encounter with sporting greats, step into the All Blacks Experience, where you learn about grass roots rugby culture in New Zealand and might even by guided by an ex-player!
Gastronomic excellence
Auckland’s food scene is thriving, making it an ideal destination for culinary-themed incentives. Groups can enjoy private dining at Onemata, Park Hyatt’s signature restaurant, or indulge in a progressive dining experience across the city’s best eateries in Britomart and Viaduct Harbour. Or sip champagne or a cocktail at a majestic 182 meters in the clouds, offering sensational 360° views from SkyBar at the top of the Sky Tower (below). For a more immersive experience, delegates can forage for fresh ingredients, or helicopter to a remove fishing spot to reel in the catch of the day and later take part in a bespoke cooking class with top local chefs.
Sustainability in focus
As more destinations join the path to net zero, Auckland is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable urban development. The city’s commitment to eco-friendly experiences, from carbon-neutral event venues to regenerative tourism initiatives, allows businesses to align their incentive programs with their sustainability goals. Venues like the aforementioned Hotel Britomart lead the way with a 5 Green Star rating, while NZICC has been designed to be one of the most sustainable convention centres in the world. Waiheke Island’s eco-conscious vineyards and Zero Carbon-certified tour operators further enhance Auckland’s green credentials. Additionally, initiatives such as tree-planting programs, marine conservation efforts, and partnerships with Māori-led sustainability projects enable groups to give back to the local community while enjoying the region’s natural beauty.
The Future is Bright
With a mix of cutting-edge infrastructure, unique cultural experiences, and an unbeatable natural setting, Tāmaki Makaurau is redefining incentive travel. Whether meeting to share knowledge or strengthening team bonds, this city offers the perfect balance of luxury, adventure, and investment in social impact — making Auckland a must-consider host destination for incentive programs and conferences alike.