Tourism New Zealand brought a larger-than-ever exhibition to The Meetings Show Asia Pacific 2025 under the banner of 100% Pure New Zealand. Photo Credit: The Meetings Show Asia Pacific
Thanks to a NZ$3 million (US$1.77 million) funding boost from the government, Tourism New Zealand brought a larger-than-ever exhibition to The Meetings Show Asia Pacific 2025 under the banner of 100% Pure New Zealand.
“In addition to the 100% Pure New Zealand stand, the recent Government funding boost for our sector has enabled us to increase our presence at the show,” said Penelope Ryan, global manager business events at Tourism New Zealand.
“We’re proud to be sponsoring the keynote speakers and the hosted buyers' refreshments. With some distinctively Kiwi cookies, chocolate, coffee, and tea, we’ll give attendees a taste of New Zealand. We look forward to welcoming attendees for kōrero and kai (a snack and a chat) while they learn what’s new in New Zealand events.”
Game-changing venues and experiences
At TMS APAC 2025, Tourism New Zealand highlighted the upcoming NZ International Convention Centre (NZICC), opening in February 2026. This addition will allow the country to host conferences of up to 4,000 delegates, a huge leap forward for New Zealand’s MICE capabilities.
Together with the Te Pae Christchurch and Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centres, these venues offer cutting-edge facilities that will make New Zealand an even more attractive destination for international events.
New Zealand’s charm goes far beyond its state-of-the-art venues. At the New Zealand Pavilion, TMS APAC visitors could find out more about some of the country’s most iconic and immersive experiences, including the world-famous Hobbiton Movie Set and unforgettable outdoor activities from specialists like Social Nature Movement.
Destination management companies such as HQNZ and Attend NZ also showcased the innovative ways groups can combine business with relaxation, adventure, and a taste of New Zealand’s vibrant local culture.
Supercharging support
The funding will also be instrumental in increasing New Zealand’s global competitiveness as a top-tier business events destination.
Related: New Zealand ups its stake in the business events landscape
“In addition to an increased tradeshow presence, the money will increase our existing Conference Assistance Programme,” said Ryan. “This will enable us to bid for 110 conferences this financial year, up from 90. Our business development managers will collaborate with our venue and convention bureau partners on new bids. The fund also allows for some strategic subvention funding to convert some of the conferences already on our radar.”