(SINGAPORE, 6 June 2013) — New Zealand is poised to offer visitors and business delegates a unique and memorable experience with the announcement of the New Zealand International Convention Centre to be developed in Auckland.

 

The New Zealand International Convention Centre will be designed, built and operated by SKYCITY Entertainment Group. The NZ$315m development includes public convention and exhibition space capable of accommodating 3,500 convention delegates at one time.

 

It is expected to open in mid/late 2017 and is conveniently located in the heart of Auckland's vibrant CBD, within walking distance of more than 4,700 hotel rooms and numerous shopping and restaurant precincts.

 

Tourism New Zealand's Chief Executive Kevin Bowler says with the development of the NZICC it's time for conference organisers to put Auckland and New Zealand firmly on their radar.

 

"Holding an event in New Zealand would exceed all visitor expectations. Where else in the world do you find world class conferencing facilities close to crystal-clear waters or where you can be exploring a stunningly rugged rainforest one hour and sailing on an America's Cup yacht in a glorious harbour setting the next?

 

"All of this natural beauty, unspoilt by the country's equally impressive cosmopolitan flavour makes New Zealand the perfect place for business and pure leisure.

 

"New Zealand is regularly rated as one of the world's preferred destinations. Come for an event but stay a few days and explore our wonderful country and have the holiday of a lifetime."

 

ATEED (Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development) Chief Executive Brett O'Riley says with the establishment of a world-class facility at SKYCITY Auckland is now open for business and poised to host large international conferences.

 

"Auckland has the people, places and conferencing facilities to make your conference experience not only magical, but memorable and we look forward to welcoming delegates from around the globe to our world class city."

 

Auckland is New Zealand's largest city, with a population of approximately 1.5 million people. Home to many diverse cultures from the Pacific and around the world, Auckland is a modern, welcoming community.

 

"Set on three sparkling harbours, Auckland has an exciting combination of a vibrant city culture and stunning natural beauty - it's no wonder Auckland was rated third on the Mercer scale of global lifestyle cities in 2012."

 

Auckland is easily accessible with direct flights to 33 international and 22 domestic destinations.  It is a three hour flight from the eastern seaboard of Australia, a direct overnight flight from the west coast of North America and an approximate ten hour flight from most places on the Pacific Rim, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Tokyo.

 

In addition to the focus on destination marketing and promoting an extension of stay from business events delegates, Tourism New Zealand - in association with the country's Convention Bureaus - also assists organisations bidding for the rights to host international conferences through its administration of the Conference Assistance Programme (CAP).

 

-Ends-

Notes to editors

The NZICC is expected to open in mid/late 2017 based on current anticipated timelines - subject to the passing of enabling legislation, and allowing for a three-year construction period.

 

About Us

Tourism New Zealand is an international marketing board charged with marketing New Zealand as an international visitor destination.

 

ATEED (Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development) is Auckland's economic growth agency. ATEED's Auckland Convention Bureau is the lead agency responsible for marketing Auckland as a destination for meetings, incentives, conventions and events and transacting conference business.

 

Find out more about the Auckland Convention Bureau at aucklandnz.com/conventions

 

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Issued on behalf of Tourism New Zealand by Grebstad Hicks Communications.

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