By James Wilkinson at Meetings 2014 in Auckland
The new CEO of Conventions and Incentives New Zealand (CINZ), Sue Sullivan, says the events and business tourism industry needs to work collaboratively if it is to compete globally.
“We’re operating in a highly competitive, innovative market and if we want to punch above our weight we need to work together and, where necessary, pool resources,” she said at the Meetings trade show in Auckland today (June 18).
“The new convention centres planned for the country will open up new opportunities for our industry and we need to be ready to respond in a coordinated, strategic way.
“It is important that Conventions and Incentives New Zealand and Tourism New Zealand (TNZ) work together strategically to promote New Zealand and that we also put resources into the industry to ensure it is performing at optimum levels.
“CINZ’s role is to lead advocacy, education and events, and Meetings is our premier industry showcase,” she said.
A key, Sullivan said, was the need for up-skilling in the meetings and events industry.
“What we want to do is grow the skills of our conference and event managers and strengthen the networks within our industry so that everyone is at the top of their game,” she said.
“Buyers have high expectations of our industry and it is important we not only meet those expectations, but we exceed them.’’
Over the next two days at the ASB Showgrounds in Auckland, Meetings 2014 will play host to 620 PCOs from across Asia-Pacific and 185 New Zealand exhibitors who will get together for over 6,000 scheduled meetings.
HM travelled to Auckland with Air New Zealand.In Business Class, Air New Zealand offers world-class food and wine that highlights the best New Zealand has to offer, while also not compromising on comfort with flatbed seats which feature super-comfortable seat-toppers, large pillows and duvets. You won’t get bored, with hundreds of hours of entertainment available on demand. Visit www.airnz.com.au