Just because it’s winter throughout much of the Asia/Pacific region of the world, doesn’t mean that international MICE trade shows are in hibernation.
New Zealand will host its largest MICE trade show of the year June 15-16, when Conventions and Incentive New Zealand (CINZ) Meetings takes place in Auckland at ASB Showgrounds. The 20th annual event is expected to draw 800 meeting planners and nearly 200 exhibitors for 6,000 face-to-face meetings. Last year, CINZ Meetings led to $50 million in contracted bookings.
“We attract everyone from high-end incentive travel organizers looking for bespoke luxury, to corporate professionals planning company events, and large international associations organizing multiday conferences,” says Sue Sullivan, chief executive of the event. “CINZ Meetings gives event organizers the chance to do a year’s worth of business in two days, all under one roof. We are showcasing the latest trends in food, travel, design, technology and entertainment, and treating them to an authentic taste of New Zealand hospitality – our Manaakitanga.”
Hosted planners and media from around the world are being flown to New Zealand for the event. Before the trade show begins, planners and journalists will tour various destinations within the country, such as Hamilton and Waikato, Taupo, Rotorua, Wellington, Nelson, Christchurch, Queenstown and Dunedin. Auckland Convention Bureau will also show its international guests around the host city.
CINZ Meetings is a free event for planners. Start planning now to attend next year’s show because even if it’s winter in New Zealand, it’s a hot time to check out all that the country has to offer for meetings, incentive, conventions and events.
“This face-to-face time, experience and networking is at the crux of our industry,” Sullivan says. “CINZ Meetings is much more than an exhibition. We give them a total Kiwi experience from the moment they arrive.”
IBTM China is set for Sept. 7−8 in Beijing at China National Convention Center. During the 2008 Olympics, the convention center was site of the international broadcast center and several events.
Hong Kong Rewards Programs
Meetings and Exhibitions Hong Kong (MEHK), the MICE arm of the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), has teamed up with industry partners to create a rewards program for those convening in the world-class city.
Hong Kong Rewards! features a complimentary cocktail reception for groups staying at 43 partner hotels. Other rewards include upgrades to special offers from Hong Kong’s key attractions and discounts of up to $250 per person from vendors at the Hong Kong International Airport. MEHK also facilitates complimentary cultural performances, welcome airport signage, souvenirs and maps.
“Hong Kong is one of the world’s foremost MICE destinations, offering high standards of hospitality and accommodation, as well as an unsurpassed array of leisure activities,” says Bill Flora, U.S. director of the Hong Kong Tourism Board. “To further enhance the destination experience for MICE visitors, it’s only fitting that we offer more discounts and privileges than ever for MICE groups from their arrival to their departure.”
