MEETINGS 2025 Set to Break Records as New Zealand Leading Business Events Showcase Returns to Auckland

Published on October 30, 2024

By: Tuhin Sarkar

New Zealand’s premier business events showcase, MEETINGS 2025, is gearing up to be the largest event in its 29-year history, with exhibitor applications already filling up at a rapid pace. Organized by Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA), the highly anticipated event will return to the Auckland Showgrounds from June 11 to 12, 2025. This marks the first time since 2021 that MEETINGS will take place in New Zealand’s largest city, offering an expanded venue with ample space for a record number of exhibitors and attendees.

Lisa Hopkins, BEIA Chief Executive, expressed excitement about MEETINGS returning to Auckland, emphasizing the enhanced opportunities for exhibitors to connect with a wider network. “We are expecting our biggest ever MEETINGS next year and we are encouraging exhibitors to apply early for show floor space,” Hopkins said. “Following the great success of MEETINGS 2024 in Rotorua, we’ve seen the enduring value of face-to-face interactions and the power of coming together in person. MEETINGS 2025 is set to create a powerful hub for domestic and international buyers to exchange ideas and create new business opportunities.”

A Landmark Event for New Zealand’s Business Events Industry

MEETINGS has long been recognized as the cornerstone of New Zealand’s business events calendar, serving as a crucial platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and business development. With its return to Auckland, the showcase aims to capitalize on the city’s status as a dynamic commercial hub. The partnership with Auckland’s Convention Bureau and local business events community enhances the show’s appeal, making it a must-attend event for exhibitors looking to expand their reach.

This year, MEETINGS will host over 220 qualified buyers from across Australia, New Zealand, and beyond, along with an estimated 300 domestic day buyers. This diverse audience of industry professionals will have the chance to explore new business opportunities, discuss emerging trends, and engage with exhibitors representing various sectors within the events industry. The return to Auckland allows for a larger, more dynamic event that fosters meaningful connections between domestic and international players in the business events market.

Earlybird Opportunities and Newcomer Incentives

Exhibitors planning to showcase their offerings at MEETINGS 2025 are encouraged to act swiftly to secure their spots, as demand for floor space continues to rise. To incentivize early registrations, BEIA is offering special earlybird rates for exhibitors until December 13, 2024. Additionally, a limited number of entry-level spaces are available for first-time exhibitors or those returning after a five-year hiatus, providing a cost-effective option for those new to the show or looking to reestablish their presence.

Hopkins underscored the importance of applying early to take advantage of these offers, particularly for those who want to maximize their visibility at the event. “We are encouraging everyone interested in exhibiting at MEETINGS 2025 to apply early to take advantage of these special rates,” she said. These incentives reflect BEIA’s commitment to supporting a wide range of exhibitors, from established industry leaders to emerging businesses eager to make their mark.

Enhanced Networking and Knowledge Exchange

The essence of MEETINGS lies in its ability to bring together a diverse mix of exhibitors and buyers in a professional setting that encourages relationship-building and knowledge sharing. This year’s event promises to provide exhibitors with unparalleled access to key decision-makers and potential partners. Through face-to-face interactions, businesses can showcase their products, services, and innovations directly to those with the buying power and interest in expanding their offerings.

As New Zealand’s largest trade show for the business events sector, MEETINGS 2025 will also offer knowledge sessions, workshops, and panel discussions aimed at equipping attendees with valuable insights into industry trends and best practices. The event serves as a knowledge hub where professionals can discuss challenges, exchange ideas, and learn from one another, ultimately strengthening the business events community as a whole.

Auckland: The Ideal Venue for MEETINGS 2025

Returning to Auckland for MEETINGS 2025 not only provides more space but also highlights the city’s significance in New Zealand’s business events landscape. As the country’s largest urban center, Auckland offers world-class facilities, robust infrastructure, and a vibrant business community, making it the perfect setting for such a high-profile event. The city’s well-connected location and extensive transport options make it easy for both domestic and international attendees to participate, further enhancing MEETINGS’ accessibility and appeal.

Hopkins noted that Auckland’s resources and commitment to supporting the business events industry make it an ideal partner for MEETINGS. “We are proud to partner with Auckland’s Convention Bureau and business events community to make MEETINGS 2025 a must-attend event,” she said. This partnership underscores BEIA’s strategic approach to selecting venues that amplify the value of the show for all involved parties.

A Testament to the Value of In-Person Interactions

The success of MEETINGS 2024 in Rotorua highlighted the ongoing demand for face-to-face interactions in the business events sector. As digital interactions become increasingly prevalent, in-person events like MEETINGS offer a unique advantage by allowing exhibitors and buyers to build stronger relationships, assess products and services firsthand, and engage in meaningful conversations. MEETINGS 2025 will continue this tradition, fostering an environment where professionals can connect on a personal level and cultivate partnerships that drive growth and innovation.

For buyers, the event is an opportunity to discover new suppliers, learn about emerging trends, and make informed purchasing decisions. For exhibitors, it’s a chance to showcase their brand, strengthen their network, and gain valuable exposure. In an era where virtual interactions are commonplace, MEETINGS stands out as a reminder of the unmatched value of gathering in person.

Looking Forward to MEETINGS 2025

With exhibitor spaces filling up fast, MEETINGS 2025 is poised to be a landmark event, breaking records for attendance and participation in New Zealand’s business events industry. The combination of Auckland’s dynamic setting, BEIA’s strong partnerships, and the strategic incentives for exhibitors makes this year’s event a unique opportunity for businesses to expand their reach and create lasting connections.

As the business events industry continues to evolve, MEETINGS serves as a beacon of progress, bringing together the best of the sector under one roof. With its focus on collaboration, innovation, and growth, MEETINGS 2025 promises to set new standards for the industry, paving the way for future success in New Zealand and beyond.