The New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) was awarded Qualmark Gold under Qualmark’s Sustainable Tourism Business criteria, following an independent assessment ahead of its official opening on 11 February.
Qualmark is New Zealand’s official quality assurance mark for tourism businesses, recognising excellence across sustainability, safety and visitor experience. The NZICC assessment resulted in a Qualmark Gold rating under the program, highlighting the venue’s readiness to host world-class events from day one.
“NZICC’s achievement of a Qualmark Gold Award highlights its strong commitment to delivering a high‑quality, sustainable visitor experience,” Qualmark general manager Steven Dixon said. “This accreditation reflects industry‑leading practices across sustainability, safety, and manaakitanga, and demonstrates NZICC’s readiness to open as a benchmark for excellence in Aotearoa’s business events sector.”
Sustainability has been built into every aspect of the NZICC’s development, shaping how the venue will operate and how organisers, delegates and visitors will experience it.
“Qualmark Gold reflects the depth of work that’s gone into preparing the NZICC to operate,” CX & Marketing director Tracey Ha said. “From food and beverage through to lighting, technology and building systems, decisions have been made with a clear understanding of environmental impact and how it can be reduced or offset.”
“This recognition is a credit to the many people who have contributed their expertise and commitment to shaping the venue,” NZICC general manager Prue Daly said. “As we prepare to welcome our first events, it reinforces the high standards we’ve set from the outset – for experience, sustainability and the legacy we aim to create for Auckland and New Zealand’s events industry. It’s a moment of pure pride.”
Opening mid-February, the NZICC has already secured a diverse program of major international and national events, including the International Coral Reef Symposium, Kidney Kids Gala 2026, Six60, Bic Runga and The Pogues.
