New Zealand is in the midst of a development boom when it comes to new or refurbished event spaces – most notably the imminent opening of Tākina Convention Centre in Wellington – so we have brought together some of the most exciting updates.

What’s new

• Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre (below) – construction has now finished at the site and the centre is preparing for a grand opening on 31 May 2023. We were lucky to experience a sneak peak of the new state-of-the-art centre with the Tākina events team before the keys were handed over in early March. The new venue will allow New Zealand’s capital city to host larger-scale international events for the first time, a game changer for the nation.

• Grand Millennium, Auckland (below) – This hotel boasts an awe-dropping atrium filled with natural light. A major refurbishment is planned in the next 6 – 12months, designs of which includes all rooms, the foyer and ground floor café/restaurant.

• The Sebel Wellington Lower Hutt – due to open May 2023, this hotel will be a stone’s throw from the Lower Hutt City Centre, Queensgate Mall, Civic precinct and Lower Hutt Events Centre.
• Fable Auckland – For refined elegance, look no further than Fable Auckland, situated in a heritage-listed building with art-deco glamour. It has been finishing a new conferencing space.

Sustainable hotel option
Hotel Britomart, Auckland: the only 5-star green hotel in the city. The smaller size gives this hotel a natural homely and inviting atmosphere. Its sustainable credentials are strong, with all produce locally sourced. Explore private event spaces that aren’t connected to the main building, making you feel as if you’ve stepped into another venue altogether.

Unique New Zealand experience
All Blacks Experience: Located in the SkyCity entertainment precinct, this state-of-the-art, interactive showcase shows what it means to be an All Black. Celebrate New Zealand’s rugby heritage, achievements and culture in this unmissable experience.

Flexible venue
Auckland Museum: A flexible venue that can host high-end dinners, awards nights and cultural tours all under the one roof.

Tourism New Zealand offers business specific strategic funding and support to any Australian or Australasian association or organisation wanting to explore holding a conference in New Zealand.  For more information refer to the Conference Assistance Program.

Arinex is looking forward to attending Meetings 2023 onsite at Tākina at the end of June and bringing future business events to New Zealand.

Arinex staff were hosted by Auckland Convention Bureau in a recent famil.