MEETINGS 2026 is welcoming over 500 buyers from across Australia, New Zealand, and key international markets as they bring together 214 exhibitors at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC).
Participants also have a chance to experience a piece of The Shire at the Hobbiton Movie Set.
Run by Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA), registration for the MEETINGS Day Buyer programme is free for anyone planning a business event in New Zealand.
Extra benefits include priority entry to the Celebrity Speakers NZ Showcase lunchtime sessions, plus a $100 flight rebate, discounted airport transfer with SkyDrive Express and industry accommodation rates for those travelling from outside of Auckland.
“It’s a once-a-year opportunity to catch up with over 200 exhibitors from every region of New Zealand all under one roof, and to make the most of valuable networking and education sessions,” BEIA head of event delivery Chris Peak said.
Among the activations on the MEETINGS 2026 exhibition floor, Hobbiton Movie Set transports delegates straight to The Shire with an authentic, full-scale Hobbit Hole complete with living grass, flowers, and the lush vegetation of Hobbiton’s gardens, built by the same team of carpenters, scenic painters, landscapers, and craftspeople who maintain the iconic Matamata set.
“We’re thrilled to be bringing a piece of The Shire from our slice of real Middle-earth in Matamata to the MEETINGS show floor this year,” Hobbiton Movie Set general manager tourism Shayne Forrest said.
“Those who visit the Hobbit Hole will get a glimpse of what awaits them during a visit to Hobbiton Movie Set and the magic that makes New Zealand an unforgettable destination for any event.”
Hosted buyers are scheduled for a minimum of 32 appointments in advance, while day buyers have more flexibility and can choose how much time they spend at the show over the two days. The NZICC has dedicated spaces for buyers to plug in and connect, so they can still check in with work throughout their time at MEETINGS.
Tickets to both the MEETINGS Celebration and the Official Opening are available for day buyers to purchase, giving those travelling to Auckland the opportunity to experience the full MEETINGS 2026 programme.
The 2026 Celebrity Speakers NZ Showcase features two lunchtime sessions packed with compelling voices from across business, innovation, and community.
Session one on 17 June is hosted by MC Madison Malone, a Forbes 30 Under 30 honouree, independent journalist, and host of NZ Herald’s Business with Madison. Luke Bird, an award-winning vocalist, and celebrated corporate MC will host the next day’s showcase, including a special live performance.
