Latest news with #TatakiAucklandUnlimited
Scoop
5 days ago
- Business
- Scoop
Iconic Auckland Eats 2025 Top 100 Dishes Revealed After Record Number Of Nominations
Press Release – Tataki Auckland Unlimited Iconic Auckland Eats continues to grow as a celebration of Aucklands culinary scene, says Ttaki Auckland Unlimited Director Destination, Annie Dundas. Food lovers in search of a quick bite or a special meal out in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland have a new source of inspiration, thanks to the release of the Iconic Auckland Eats 2025 list of Top 100 dishes. Presented by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, on behalf of Auckland Council, Iconic Auckland Eats celebrates the diversity and quality of Auckland's food scene and its hospitality industry. Inclusion in the annual Top 100 list is driven by personal nomination stories submitted by the public about their favourite dishes. Any dish can be nominated to become an Iconic Auckland Eat, whether it's sold from a local bakery, market stall, food truck, café or fine-dining restaurant. Nominations are reviewed by judges to determine the Top 100 list. In 2025 Iconic Auckland Eats celebrates two milestones – its fifth anniversary and a record number of nominations. This year the public submitted 3109 nominations through the Iconic Auckland Eats website, an increase of 67 per cent from the 1857 nominations received in late 2023 for the Top 100 list announced in early 2024. 'Iconic Auckland Eats continues to grow as a celebration of Auckland's culinary scene,' says Tātaki Auckland Unlimited Director Destination, Annie Dundas. Tātaki Auckland Unlimited launched Iconic Auckland Eats in 2020 with the support of Restaurant Hub, New Zealand's largest online restaurant booking network. 'Food fans active on social media love to share content about dishes they love and learn about new ones to try. Our friends in hospitality have really embraced Iconic Auckland Eats and encourage their customers to nominate dishes. We have very passionate people in all parts of Auckland who want to share food stories from their region. It's been really nice to see how that's evolved in the past five years and helped to boost the success of hospitality businesses,' Dundas says. In 2025, there are 77 dishes new to the Iconic Auckland Eats Top 100 list, with 39 businesses debuting on the list. 'It's wonderful to see how Auckland's dining options offer such variety – this is reflected with the new additions to this year's list,' Dundas says. Of the 23 dishes returning to the Iconic Auckland Eats Top 100 list in 2025, only two have been on the list since its inception – lamingtons from Sugar at Chelsea Bay and Depot's fish sliders. Nominations are assessed by judges on a range of criteria: a dish that's well-loved, representative of local culture and people, a timeless classic, and/or a 'signature dish'. The list not only celebrates food, but also in-store experiences, people, history, heritage and culture. This year's judges were Annie Dundas, along with renowned food-industry figure and The Kitchen Project Manager, Connie Clarkson and Restaurant Hub co-owner, Mark Gregory. The Top 100 list is compiled from the judges' recommendations and an evaluation of nominators' stories about their favourite dishes. In a new initiative for 2025 there are five winning dish-nomination stories, instead of one story. In previous years the winning nominator won vouchers to eat all Top 100 dishes from the year's Iconic Auckland Eats list, but this year the five winning nominators will each receive $500 worth of vouchers to spend at their choice of Iconic Auckland Eats Top 100 list venues. Connie Clarkson says Iconic Auckland Eats shows off food offerings not just in the city centre, but in neighbourhoods across the region. 'Iconic Eats is a love letter from the food lovers of Auckland to the cooks, chefs and their whānau who step up to the plate to deliver the food that brings them joy every day. It transcends place, price, nations and neighbourhoods, complexity, simplicity and time. We are really lucky.' Mark Gregory says; 'For me, Auckland's restaurant scene is more than just a collection of great places to eat; it's a dynamic expression of the city's personality — inventive, confident, and increasingly global in outlook. The range of cuisines and styles in the Iconic Auckland Eats Top 100 list showcase the region's cultural diversity — where local influences sit alongside East Asian, Middle Eastern, and European traditions, often blended in uniquely Aotearoa ways.' Iconic Auckland Eats also provides an opportunity for visitors to Auckland to learn about the region by enjoying its food. 'We've seen Iconic Auckland Eats picked up internationally, whether it's from journalists coming here and writing about it or travel agents popping information into itineraries. It's nice to share the places that Aucklanders think of as great with visitors and each other,' Dundas says. Karen Thompson-Smith, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited Head of Tourism, says she is thrilled with Iconic Auckland Eats' building momentum. 'Food and beverage services are a vital part of Auckland's vibrancy and are a major contributor to the region's visitor economy. We know that trying local cuisine is a must-do activity for most visitors coming to New Zealand,' she says. In the year to March 2025, food and beverage services accounted for 17.4 per cent of domestic and international visitor spending in Auckland, according to Infometrics. Iconic Auckland Eats 2025 Top 100 list (in alphabetical order) *Dish previously included on an Iconic Auckland Eats Top 100 list ** Business new to the Iconic Auckland Eats Top 100 list Business name Dish name Agak Agak Food ** Malaysian Nasi Campur Ahi Tuna Hūhunu Ailimteh Nasi Lemak Bungkus ** Nasi Lemak Bungkus Alma Beef Tongue, Preserved Lemon, Olive Amano Chitarra, scampi, tomato & chilli* Apéro Seared Lamb Rump, Jus with Carrot Purée and Kasundi Aryeh ** Black & White Thoughts Ashby Pies ** Beef Cheek & Cheese Pie Azabu Volcano Sushi Rolls* Bali Nights Ikan Bakar Jimbaran* Banh Mi Boy Lemongrass Chicken Banh Mi Bar Magda Noel's charcoal steak, soy butter, scallion Bari's Pizza ** Deluxe Pepperoni Pizza Beast & Butterflies ** Market Fish of the Day, scampi bisque, mussels, prawns, burnt tomatoes, fennel Bestie Cafe Towpath Cheese Toastie BFC Korean Chicken ** Seasoned Cup Chicken Boda Eggplant Bibimbap Bossi Olive Fritte Bridgehouse Warkworth ** Fresh Steamed Mussels Broke Boy Taco Birria Tacos Bunga Raya X.O. CHICKEN Burnt Butter Diner Chilli Fried Eggs Candela Lamb belly pintxo with mojo verde Carmel – Israeli Street Food Crispy Falafel Pita* Casita Miro Churros Con Chocolate Cassia Pani Puri* Cheese On Toast Bacon Jam Toastie* Cibo West Coast whitebait omelette with ginger, soy & lime butter Cocoro The Sashimi Platter* Depot Fish Sliders* Duo Raw Fish on Toast Eden Noodles Dumplings In Spicy Sauce* Esther Puff bread & taramasalata Farina Padella Isabella Farm House Cafe Pimp My Cheese Scone – Benedict Pimp Fatima's Lamb Chawarma Federal Delicatessen Chicken Salad Sandwich* First Mates, Last Laugh ** Pan-Fried John Dory FishSmith Battered Westmere Butchery Pork Sausage Forest ** Smoked purple kumara, caper brine glaze, Marmite cream, rosemary greens, paprika Forester Bar & Grill ** Skin-on Snapper Fort Greene ** The Reuben Frat's Pizza ** Hawaiian Pizza Gemmayze Street Babaganouj* Gerome Rolled Baklava, Greek Nuts, Gooseberry Compote, Metaxa Syrup, Mascarpone Giapo World Famous Hokey Pokey GOAT By Sid Chopra ** GOAT Champaran Hapunan Adobo Del Diablo* Hello Beasty Prawn + Crab Toast* Hill House Cafe Pimp My Scone – The OG Pimp Huami Fruit Wood Roasted Peking Duck* INCA Spicy Tuna Tostada Ipoh Malaysian Cuisine Lorbak Izu ** Tuna Ceviche Jia Qi Sweets – Chow Luck Club Foodie Market ** Dragon's Beard Candy Khu Khu ** Kumara Spring Roll Kingi Hot smoked kahawai from Little Barrier with horseradish Lebanese Grocer ** Chicken Shawarma Leigh Eats ** Fish & Chips Lot Nineteen Cinnamon Rolls* Lucky Gs Thigh Guy Mae Nam Khong ** Drunken Spicy Duck Mairangi Bay Bakery ** Braised Beef Short Rib Pie MASU by Nic Watt Wagyu Kimchi Gyoza Black Origin Wagyu Beef & Kimchi Gyoza, Pickled Cucumber, Soy Vinegar Mekong Baby Braised Crispy Pork Belly, Caramelised Chilli & Soy, Asian Slaw* Metita ** Handpicked Beef Scotch, 55 day dry-aged, palusami purée, ravigote Mint As Waiheke Island, Burgers & Shakes ** Mint As Burger Moxie Restaurant ** Beef Wellington, potato and truffle foam, pumpkin seed and parsley pesto Mumbaiwala ** Dahi Puri Nanam Lechon Ockhee Tofu BBQ Gui Ohui Restaurant ** Pāua Tortellini Onslow Chatham Islands Crayfish Éclair, Organic Egg, Spiced Bisque, Herbs Our Land ** East Coast Brisket Paradise Lamb Biryani* Peach's Hot Chicken Peanut Butter Mousse Pie Pici Pici Cacio e Pepe* Prego Risotto All'Anatra Ragtag Duck Carnitas Tacos* Ramen Takara ** Jade Ramen Red Crab ** Sweet And Sour Chicken Rhu ** Honey toast with whipped yoghurt and nectarines Richoux Patisserie ** Steak, Jalapeño and Cheese Pie San Ray ** Quinoa Toast with Smoked Fish and Pickled Egg Shelley's Kitchen ** Malaysian Spiral Curry Puffs SkyBar Gold Bar* Smiths Matakana ** Chef's Loaded Fries Sugar at Chelsea Bay Raspberry Lamington* Tacoteca ** Ora King Salmon Aguachile (please note this changes with the season so fish varies) Tala Raw Ramen Tempero ** Pão de Queijo (Cheese Bread) The 'Ansum Pasty Company ** Proper Cornish Pasty The Blue Breeze Inn Steamed Bao Bun with roasted pork belly & pickled cucumber* The Engine Room Twice Baked Goats Cheese Souffle* The Glass House Brick Bay Leigh Skin-On Snapper The Local Waiheke Fish Taco The Lodge Passionfruit Drizzled Pavlova The Sugar Dealer ** Raspberry Cheesecake Brownie Tiger Bar & Restaurant ** Korean Fried Cauliflower, Gochujang Glaze, Sesame, Kimchi Vietnam Cafe Spare Ribs Rice Noodles Soup The five winning dish-nomination stories Noel's charcoal steak, soy butter, scallion from Bar Magda – nominated by Elle Pitts They have turned that steak into something great. Cooked over charcoal perfectly, and then that sauce. I could drink that sauce. I could bath in that sauce…smothered over the perfectly cooked and seasoned steak. Just divine. Deluxe Pepperoni Pizza from Bari's Pizza – nominated by Simran Patel It combines halal pepperoni and bell peppers [capsicums] with delicious, hot honey. Out of all the halal pepperoni pizzas I've had around the world this has to be the best! Halal pepperoni is so hard to come across, so that's another reason why it deserves to win. Dumplings in Spicy Sauce from Eden Noodles – nominated by Karol Troncoso Every time I visit Eden Noodles; I watch the lady at the door making dumplings with such precision. Her care and skill make every bite perfect. These dumplings reflect Auckland's diverse food scene – handmade, flavourful, and crafted with passion. Risotto All'Anatra from Prego – nominated by Jodi Pretscherer It is like a creamy bowl of happiness. I can't eat this without having my 17-year-old and husband 'taxing' it. It's a must-have at this iconic restaurant. Spare Ribs Rice Noodles Soup from Vietnam Café – nominated by Joshua Jo This dish has been a favourite of mine since I was 10 years old. I'm nearly 40 now and nothing has changed, in the best way. The dish's flavour, quality, and presentation remain consistent, and I'll gladly drive from the other side of Auckland for it. Notes: Now in its fifth year, Iconic Auckland Eats aims to support the hospitality sector and showcase Auckland's world-class cuisine and diverse food story An initiative by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited on behalf of Auckland Council, Iconic Auckland Eats is an annual list of the top 100 dishes available in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, as nominated by the public and reviewed by a judging panel Iconic Auckland Eats submissions are nominated by food-loving locals and visitors to Tāmaki Makaurau, who also share a brief story about why they love the dish. There were 3109 nominations submitted 5 February – 5 March 2025 via Food and beverage services employ more than 150,000 people in the Auckland region, 15 per cent of the total Auckland workforce. More than 32,000 businesses, or 14 per cent, of Auckland's businesses are in the food and beverage-service sector.
Scoop
10-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Tourism Growth Roadmap Speech To Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA)
Speech – New Zealand Government Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Tēnā koutou katoa. Thank you for the warm welcome. It is my pleasure to welcome you all to MEETINGS 2025. First, I would like to acknowledge Mayor Wayne Brown attending MEETINGS 2025 today and a special acknowledgment to Ngāti Whatua Orakei for their pōwhiri and welcome. I would also like to recognise Tataki Auckland Unlimited and in particular the Auckland Convention Bureau for their dedication and hard work advocating for Auckland as a world-class visitor destination. Last but not the least, I'd like to extend a heartfelt thank you to some incredible individuals who make events like this possible, a huge thank you again to BEIA Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins and Board Chair Martin Snedden. Your leadership across the business events in New Zealand and creating such vibrant and energetic gatherings like MEETINGS 2025 are truly appreciated and make a difference to New Zealand. To our local and international buyers, exhibitors and media – thank you for making the journey from around the world to join us in Auckland. Events like MEETINGS are so important for bringing incredible opportunities to our regions, building valuable connections with our offshore markets and strengthening our business events sector. There is no doubt that New Zealand's business events industry is on the rise – and that's thanks to the fantastic organisations and individuals like you in this room today. You are the driving force behind a growing pipeline of high-value deals across sectors. These opportunities are helping boost productivity, support local communities, and grow our regions. Together, we are putting New Zealand as a top place to do business – and the conversations and connections you make over the next few days will help us even further. Events like this are a powerful reminder of what it takes to deliver world-class experiences – whether its state-of-the-art venues, exceptional food and catering, smooth logistics, or engaging content. Beyond their direct economic benefits, business events connect us, foster new ideas and drive innovation across industries. I want to acknowledge the vital role you all play – not just as the professionals of tourism and hospitality, but as ambassadors of New Zealand. Your commitment lay the foundation for successful events and help position our country as a world leader in the excellence we are known for. Increasing tourism and creating a strong economy is a key focus for the next few years, and the economic contribution of the business events sector is a critical element to success. Business events punch well above their weight in attracting high-value international conferences to our regions and main centres throughout the year, and MEETINGS is a prime example of this. I hope you enjoy your Auckland experience and participate in the amazing visitor experience while you are here. As Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, I have two priorities for the portfolio. My first priority is to grow international tourism by both increasing the number of international visitors to New Zealand in the short term, and doubling the value of tourism exports by 2034. My second priority is to grow the number of Kiwis in tourism and hospitality jobs which will further support our wider economic growth objectives. Our business events sector plays a huge role in showcasing New Zealand as a progressive, entrepreneurial destination and will play a significant role in achieving our goal of doubling tourism exports. Business event participants spend an average of $175 more per day than other visitors, and importantly, often visit in the off-peak period between March and November, boosting tourism and economic activity year-round. This is exactly why we are making positive changes to support its growth. In April, alongside the Minister of Health and the Minister for Regulation, I was thrilled to announce a change to the Medicines Act. The change will allow for medicines to be advertised that have not yet been consented by Medsafe at medical conferences in New Zealand. This shift removes a long-standing barrier and opens the door to hosting more international medical conferences and trade shows, unlocking an estimated $90 million in future revenue. On top of that, we're continuously working to attract high-value incentive business to New Zealand. It's all part of our effort to make our country a go-to place for significant business events. As part of my Tourism Boost package, I provided $3 million to Tourism New Zealand to make an additional 15-20 bids for business events in 2026 and beyond through its existing Conference Assistance Programme. This investment has already supported Tourism New Zealand to win three bids valued at $7.5 million. Our message is clear, New Zealand is open for business. We are looking forward to welcoming more business events and conferences to New Zealand and hosting them in our great facilities. Tourism is our second largest export earner and a crucial component of our workforce, and we cannot understate the benefits it provides to our country. We're committed to continue growing the sector, which is why today, I am announcing the launch of the Tourism Growth Roadmap. The Roadmap follows my recent Tourism Boost package and is the second step towards doubling our tourism export value by 2034. The final Roadmap has been carefully developed based on the conversations I have had with industry leaders since taking over the portfolio and reflects what I've heard is important to you. The first package of investment will continue to prioritise increasing international visitor volumes, with around 80 per cent of the investment going towards demand initiatives and 20 per cent towards supply initiatives. I am also announcing a $35 million investment from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy to deliver the first stage of the Roadmap. Yesterday, the Prime Minister and I announced $13.5 million in new funding to Tourism New Zealand to uplift marketing activity in our core markets of Australia, the United States and China. This investment is expected to generate around $300 million in spending and deliver an extra 72,000 international visitors to our shores. These are big numbers, but this is only part of the full $35 million package we're unveiling today. I am also committing a further $6 million in new funding to uplift marketing activity in our emerging markets of India and Southeast Asia. We know that Tourism New Zealand does an important job of marketing our country internationally, acting as the primary influence for approximately 14 per cent of international holiday visitors. I expect these investments to result in almost $360 million in incremental visitor spend in the economy. As I have been saying today, I see the business events sector as an incredibly valuable visitor market for supporting tourism growth. That is why I'm thrilled to announce I am committing an additional $3 million to Tourism New Zealand to boost business events attraction for a further year. This reinforces the important role that all of you play, and I am excited to see the positive outcomes from this investment. I am also providing a $5 million boost for major events attraction. Major events drive economic benefits to New Zealand through international visitation and additional direct spend in the host region. To complement these demand initiatives, I am investing in specific regional tourism infrastructure projects. Last week, alongside Minister Potaka, I announced $4 million to improve visitor experiences along the Milford Road corridor. This investment is co-funded and will be delivered by the Department of Conservation. As you all know, Milford Sound Piopiotahi is one of our most iconic destinations and a huge drawcard for international visitors. This investment will support improved visitor experiences, infrastructure and reduced congestion. We have an enormous opportunity on our hands. Tourism has the potential to become our biggest export earner – we've done it before, and I believe we can do it again. It will take significant effort from us all, and the industry is united with shared purpose, aspirations, and enthusiasm. Achieving this will require action on the supply-side and I have asked my officials to begin a review of our tourism system to support this. This includes looking at issues surrounding our workforce: data infrastructure funding our regions and communities aviation and cruise connectivity and the overall visitor experience that we offer. We're looking at what is working well and what do we need to change to ensure we are fit for the future. The key to our success will be working together. There is plenty of work to do and I am excited to continue working alongside the tourism and hospitality sector to build on the incredible foundations already in place. Ladies and Gentlemen, the next few days are packed with opportunities. New Zealand is open for business, and we welcome the opportunity to attract more business, exhibition and incentive travellers to New Zealand and grow our economy. Together, let's maximise the value tourism brings to our beautiful country! Thank you again.
Scoop
10-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Tourism Growth Roadmap Speech To Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA)
Speech – New Zealand Government Events like MEETINGS are so important for bringing incredible opportunities to our regions, building valuable connections with our offshore markets and strengthening our business events sector. Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Tēnā koutou katoa. Thank you for the warm welcome. It is my pleasure to welcome you all to MEETINGS 2025. First, I would like to acknowledge Mayor Wayne Brown attending MEETINGS 2025 today and a special acknowledgment to Ngāti Whatua Orakei for their pōwhiri and welcome. I would also like to recognise Tataki Auckland Unlimited and in particular the Auckland Convention Bureau for their dedication and hard work advocating for Auckland as a world-class visitor destination. Last but not the least, I'd like to extend a heartfelt thank you to some incredible individuals who make events like this possible, a huge thank you again to BEIA Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins and Board Chair Martin Snedden. Your leadership across the business events in New Zealand and creating such vibrant and energetic gatherings like MEETINGS 2025 are truly appreciated and make a difference to New Zealand. To our local and international buyers, exhibitors and media – thank you for making the journey from around the world to join us in Auckland. Events like MEETINGS are so important for bringing incredible opportunities to our regions, building valuable connections with our offshore markets and strengthening our business events sector. There is no doubt that New Zealand's business events industry is on the rise – and that's thanks to the fantastic organisations and individuals like you in this room today. You are the driving force behind a growing pipeline of high-value deals across sectors. These opportunities are helping boost productivity, support local communities, and grow our regions. Together, we are putting New Zealand as a top place to do business – and the conversations and connections you make over the next few days will help us even further. Events like this are a powerful reminder of what it takes to deliver world-class experiences – whether its state-of-the-art venues, exceptional food and catering, smooth logistics, or engaging content. Beyond their direct economic benefits, business events connect us, foster new ideas and drive innovation across industries. I want to acknowledge the vital role you all play – not just as the professionals of tourism and hospitality, but as ambassadors of New Zealand. Your commitment lay the foundation for successful events and help position our country as a world leader in the excellence we are known for. Increasing tourism and creating a strong economy is a key focus for the next few years, and the economic contribution of the business events sector is a critical element to success. Business events punch well above their weight in attracting high-value international conferences to our regions and main centres throughout the year, and MEETINGS is a prime example of this. I hope you enjoy your Auckland experience and participate in the amazing visitor experience while you are here. As Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, I have two priorities for the portfolio. My first priority is to grow international tourism by both increasing the number of international visitors to New Zealand in the short term, and doubling the value of tourism exports by 2034. My second priority is to grow the number of Kiwis in tourism and hospitality jobs which will further support our wider economic growth objectives. Our business events sector plays a huge role in showcasing New Zealand as a progressive, entrepreneurial destination and will play a significant role in achieving our goal of doubling tourism exports. Business event participants spend an average of $175 more per day than other visitors, and importantly, often visit in the off-peak period between March and November, boosting tourism and economic activity year-round. This is exactly why we are making positive changes to support its growth. In April, alongside the Minister of Health and the Minister for Regulation, I was thrilled to announce a change to the Medicines Act. The change will allow for medicines to be advertised that have not yet been consented by Medsafe at medical conferences in New Zealand. This shift removes a long-standing barrier and opens the door to hosting more international medical conferences and trade shows, unlocking an estimated $90 million in future revenue. On top of that, we're continuously working to attract high-value incentive business to New Zealand. It's all part of our effort to make our country a go-to place for significant business events. As part of my Tourism Boost package, I provided $3 million to Tourism New Zealand to make an additional 15-20 bids for business events in 2026 and beyond through its existing Conference Assistance Programme. This investment has already supported Tourism New Zealand to win three bids valued at $7.5 million. Our message is clear, New Zealand is open for business. We are looking forward to welcoming more business events and conferences to New Zealand and hosting them in our great facilities. Tourism is our second largest export earner and a crucial component of our workforce, and we cannot understate the benefits it provides to our country. We're committed to continue growing the sector, which is why today, I am announcing the launch of the Tourism Growth Roadmap. The Roadmap follows my recent Tourism Boost package and is the second step towards doubling our tourism export value by 2034. The final Roadmap has been carefully developed based on the conversations I have had with industry leaders since taking over the portfolio and reflects what I've heard is important to you. The first package of investment will continue to prioritise increasing international visitor volumes, with around 80 per cent of the investment going towards demand initiatives and 20 per cent towards supply initiatives. I am also announcing a $35 million investment from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy to deliver the first stage of the Roadmap. Yesterday, the Prime Minister and I announced $13.5 million in new funding to Tourism New Zealand to uplift marketing activity in our core markets of Australia, the United States and China. This investment is expected to generate around $300 million in spending and deliver an extra 72,000 international visitors to our shores. These are big numbers, but this is only part of the full $35 million package we're unveiling today. I am also committing a further $6 million in new funding to uplift marketing activity in our emerging markets of India and Southeast Asia. We know that Tourism New Zealand does an important job of marketing our country internationally, acting as the primary influence for approximately 14 per cent of international holiday visitors. I expect these investments to result in almost $360 million in incremental visitor spend in the economy. As I have been saying today, I see the business events sector as an incredibly valuable visitor market for supporting tourism growth. That is why I'm thrilled to announce I am committing an additional $3 million to Tourism New Zealand to boost business events attraction for a further year. This reinforces the important role that all of you play, and I am excited to see the positive outcomes from this investment. I am also providing a $5 million boost for major events attraction. Major events drive economic benefits to New Zealand through international visitation and additional direct spend in the host region. To complement these demand initiatives, I am investing in specific regional tourism infrastructure projects. Last week, alongside Minister Potaka, I announced $4 million to improve visitor experiences along the Milford Road corridor. This investment is co-funded and will be delivered by the Department of Conservation. As you all know, Milford Sound Piopiotahi is one of our most iconic destinations and a huge drawcard for international visitors. This investment will support improved visitor experiences, infrastructure and reduced congestion. We have an enormous opportunity on our hands. Tourism has the potential to become our biggest export earner – we've done it before, and I believe we can do it again. It will take significant effort from us all, and the industry is united with shared purpose, aspirations, and enthusiasm. Achieving this will require action on the supply-side and I have asked my officials to begin a review of our tourism system to support this. This includes looking at issues surrounding our workforce: data infrastructure funding our regions and communities aviation and cruise connectivity and the overall visitor experience that we offer. We're looking at what is working well and what do we need to change to ensure we are fit for the future. The key to our success will be working together. There is plenty of work to do and I am excited to continue working alongside the tourism and hospitality sector to build on the incredible foundations already in place. Ladies and Gentlemen, the next few days are packed with opportunities. New Zealand is open for business, and we welcome the opportunity to attract more business, exhibition and incentive travellers to New Zealand and grow our economy. Together, let's maximise the value tourism brings to our beautiful country! Thank you again.
Scoop
10-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Tourism Growth Roadmap Speech To Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA)
Hon Louise Upston Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Tēnā koutou katoa. Thank you for the warm welcome. It is my pleasure to welcome you all to MEETINGS 2025. First, I would like to acknowledge Mayor Wayne Brown attending MEETINGS 2025 today and a special acknowledgment to Ngāti Whatua Orakei for their pōwhiri and welcome. I would also like to recognise Tataki Auckland Unlimited and in particular the Auckland Convention Bureau for their dedication and hard work advocating for Auckland as a world-class visitor destination. Last but not the least, I'd like to extend a heartfelt thank you to some incredible individuals who make events like this possible, a huge thank you again to BEIA Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins and Board Chair Martin Snedden. Your leadership across the business events in New Zealand and creating such vibrant and energetic gatherings like MEETINGS 2025 are truly appreciated and make a difference to New Zealand. To our local and international buyers, exhibitors and media – thank you for making the journey from around the world to join us in Auckland. Events like MEETINGS are so important for bringing incredible opportunities to our regions, building valuable connections with our offshore markets and strengthening our business events sector. There is no doubt that New Zealand's business events industry is on the rise – and that's thanks to the fantastic organisations and individuals like you in this room today. You are the driving force behind a growing pipeline of high-value deals across sectors. These opportunities are helping boost productivity, support local communities, and grow our regions. Together, we are putting New Zealand as a top place to do business – and the conversations and connections you make over the next few days will help us even further. Events like this are a powerful reminder of what it takes to deliver world-class experiences – whether its state-of-the-art venues, exceptional food and catering, smooth logistics, or engaging content. Beyond their direct economic benefits, business events connect us, foster new ideas and drive innovation across industries. I want to acknowledge the vital role you all play – not just as the professionals of tourism and hospitality, but as ambassadors of New Zealand. Your commitment lay the foundation for successful events and help position our country as a world leader in the excellence we are known for. Increasing tourism and creating a strong economy is a key focus for the next few years, and the economic contribution of the business events sector is a critical element to success. Business events punch well above their weight in attracting high-value international conferences to our regions and main centres throughout the year, and MEETINGS is a prime example of this. I hope you enjoy your Auckland experience and participate in the amazing visitor experience while you are here. As Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, I have two priorities for the portfolio. My first priority is to grow international tourism by both increasing the number of international visitors to New Zealand in the short term, and doubling the value of tourism exports by 2034. My second priority is to grow the number of Kiwis in tourism and hospitality jobs which will further support our wider economic growth objectives. Our business events sector plays a huge role in showcasing New Zealand as a progressive, entrepreneurial destination and will play a significant role in achieving our goal of doubling tourism exports. Business event participants spend an average of $175 more per day than other visitors, and importantly, often visit in the off-peak period between March and November, boosting tourism and economic activity year-round. This is exactly why we are making positive changes to support its growth. In April, alongside the Minister of Health and the Minister for Regulation, I was thrilled to announce a change to the Medicines Act. The change will allow for medicines to be advertised that have not yet been consented by Medsafe at medical conferences in New Zealand. This shift removes a long-standing barrier and opens the door to hosting more international medical conferences and trade shows, unlocking an estimated $90 million in future revenue. On top of that, we're continuously working to attract high-value incentive business to New Zealand. It's all part of our effort to make our country a go-to place for significant business events. As part of my Tourism Boost package, I provided $3 million to Tourism New Zealand to make an additional 15-20 bids for business events in 2026 and beyond through its existing Conference Assistance Programme. This investment has already supported Tourism New Zealand to win three bids valued at $7.5 million. Our message is clear, New Zealand is open for business. We are looking forward to welcoming more business events and conferences to New Zealand and hosting them in our great facilities. Tourism is our second largest export earner and a crucial component of our workforce, and we cannot understate the benefits it provides to our country. We're committed to continue growing the sector, which is why today, I am announcing the launch of the Tourism Growth Roadmap. The Roadmap follows my recent Tourism Boost package and is the second step towards doubling our tourism export value by 2034. The final Roadmap has been carefully developed based on the conversations I have had with industry leaders since taking over the portfolio and reflects what I've heard is important to you. The first package of investment will continue to prioritise increasing international visitor volumes, with around 80 per cent of the investment going towards demand initiatives and 20 per cent towards supply initiatives. I am also announcing a $35 million investment from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy to deliver the first stage of the Roadmap. Yesterday, the Prime Minister and I announced $13.5 million in new funding to Tourism New Zealand to uplift marketing activity in our core markets of Australia, the United States and China. This investment is expected to generate around $300 million in spending and deliver an extra 72,000 international visitors to our shores. These are big numbers, but this is only part of the full $35 million package we're unveiling today. I am also committing a further $6 million in new funding to uplift marketing activity in our emerging markets of India and Southeast Asia. We know that Tourism New Zealand does an important job of marketing our country internationally, acting as the primary influence for approximately 14 per cent of international holiday visitors. I expect these investments to result in almost $360 million in incremental visitor spend in the economy. As I have been saying today, I see the business events sector as an incredibly valuable visitor market for supporting tourism growth. That is why I'm thrilled to announce I am committing an additional $3 million to Tourism New Zealand to boost business events attraction for a further year. This reinforces the important role that all of you play, and I am excited to see the positive outcomes from this investment. I am also providing a $5 million boost for major events attraction. Major events drive economic benefits to New Zealand through international visitation and additional direct spend in the host region. To complement these demand initiatives, I am investing in specific regional tourism infrastructure projects. Last week, alongside Minister Potaka, I announced $4 million to improve visitor experiences along the Milford Road corridor. This investment is co-funded and will be delivered by the Department of Conservation. As you all know, Milford Sound Piopiotahi is one of our most iconic destinations and a huge drawcard for international visitors. This investment will support improved visitor experiences, infrastructure and reduced congestion. We have an enormous opportunity on our hands. Tourism has the potential to become our biggest export earner – we've done it before, and I believe we can do it again. It will take significant effort from us all, and the industry is united with shared purpose, aspirations, and enthusiasm. Achieving this will require action on the supply-side and I have asked my officials to begin a review of our tourism system to support this. This includes looking at issues surrounding our workforce: data infrastructure funding our regions and communities aviation and cruise connectivity and the overall visitor experience that we offer. We're looking at what is working well and what do we need to change to ensure we are fit for the future. The key to our success will be working together. There is plenty of work to do and I am excited to continue working alongside the tourism and hospitality sector to build on the incredible foundations already in place. Ladies and Gentlemen, the next few days are packed with opportunities. New Zealand is open for business, and we welcome the opportunity to attract more business, exhibition and incentive travellers to New Zealand and grow our economy. Together, let's maximise the value tourism brings to our beautiful country! Thank you again.
Scoop
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Auckland Leans Into Stereotypes To Lure Kiwis This Autumn
Press Release – Tataki Auckland Unlimited Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland is flipping the script on familiar stereotypes with a bold campaign aimed at drawing domestic visitors to the central city this autumn and winter. Led by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU), in collaboration with Heart of the City and the Karangahape Road Business Association, the campaign leans into clichés with a playful twist, inviting Kiwis to take a second look at what Auckland has to offer. 'The rest of the country loves to give us stick,' says Nick Hill, Chief Executive at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited. 'We say, bring it on! Come visit. You'll find the stereotypes don't quite stack up, but our festivals, shows, art exhibitions and restaurants absolutely do.' With tongue-in-cheek headlines and vivid imagery, the campaign sets out to surprise and delight. Featured creative includes: • 'You don't have to be a food snob to eat like one' • 'Sure, it can get a little crowded here' (accompanied by a buzzing concert crowd) • 'This place is full of exhibitionists' (a nod to a lively art scene) • 'Of course there's drama in the big city' (with an image of an aerialist showing pure theatrical flair) Launching this week, the campaign will appear across out-of-home, social and digital channels in the key fly and drive markets. A vibrant colour palette and bold visuals ensure the campaign stands out not just visually, but in attitude. 'This is not a whisper campaign,' adds Hill. 'It's a shout from the rooftops that Auckland is alive and buzzing, even during the cooler months. We're telling our story loudly, and with a wink, through food, events, culture, and everything that makes our city centre so special.' Heart of the City Chief Executive Viv Beck says the campaign is much needed, especially heading into winter. 'Domestic tourism is a vital part of our city,' says Beck. 'It supports our local businesses, keeps our events calendar thriving, and injects energy into the city year-round. This campaign is designed to capture people's attention and inspire more Kiwis to explore – or rediscover – the magic of our city centre.' Jamey Holloway, Karangahape Road Business Association General Manager says: 'We know Tāmaki Makaurau can sometimes get a bad rap, but this campaign is our way of saying, we hear you – but come take another look. K' Road is no stranger to pushing boundaries, and we're proud to be part of this collaborative effort to invite everyone to come experience the unique energy you won't find anywhere else in New Zealand.' The campaign, which costs $400,000, is fully funded by the city centre targeted rate (CCTR)– a special rate paid by commercial and residential property owners within the city centre to enhance the city centre, including 'visitor attraction and promoting the city centre'. A taste of upcoming shows and events: • NZ International Comedy Festival on now • Auckland Writers Festival (13 – 18 May) • Auckland Live Cabaret Festival, The Civic (3 – 15 June) • Auckland Art Gallery – A Century of Modern Art (Opens 7 June) • Full Metal Orchestra Spark Arena (26 July) • Mānuka Phuel SYNTHONY Origins Spark Arena (26 July) • New Zealand Fashion Week Shed 10 (26 – 30 August) • Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Civic (12 September – 4 October) • Corteo – Cirque du Soleil Spark Arena (30 October – 9 November)
