NZ Conference Centre is an integral part of New Zealand Tourism Strategy

Wednesday, 20^th February, 2013

The New Zealand International Conference Centre should not be seen as just a conference facility but as an integral part of New Zealand’s tourism strategy.

Hosting 25-30 international conferences a year could generate up to 20,000 international visitors to Auckland spending $650 a night, which is double that of the average tourist. These tourists will also visit other parts of New Zealand generating revenue of an estimated $90 – 100 million. With the possibility of smaller follow-up conferences, regions like Waikato and Malborough should be asking how they can feed off the New Zealand Conference Centre activities and assist in the bids for large international conferences.

The Centre will benefit the economy in other ways. Around 1,000 construction jobs will be created during the development of the conference facilities and a further 800 new staff will be required for the centre to be fully operational.

Yes, there are social issues and economic issues associated with the new centre. But there is no reason why we cannot be smart with managing both.

For more information contact Michael Barnett, mobile: 0275 631 150.
Michael Barnett, Chief Executive, Auckland Chamber of Commerce.