Grand Opening
NZ $ 750m New Zealand Convention Centre opens to the public
NZICC Opening Ceremony Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei
F ollowing an opening
ceremony and celebration events, the New Zealand International Convention Centre( NZICC) is now officially open for business and to the public.
Ceremonial proceedings were led by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei at first light on 11 February, and prime minister Christopher Luxon formally opened the NZ $ 750m( US $ 453.6m), purposebuilt venue, New Zealand’ s largest convention centre.
The NZICC is expected to generate over NZ $ 90m in new economic activity annually and attract around 33,000 international visitors each year.
NZICC capacity is for 4,000 + delegates, 33 meeting rooms and a 2,850-seat theatre.
On 12 February 2026, the NZICC welcomed its first 650 leaders, dignitaries and partners for a showcased event full of art and performance. Helios, Luke Jerram’ s six-metre sun sculpture, illuminated Ariki Hall alongside Sara Hughes’ Iwi Rau( Many Leaves, One Canopy), while
NZICC Opening Ceremony
Te Paepae Theatre hosted inaugural performances from Te Whare Karioi, the Auckland Youth Choir and a surprise appearance by Six60.
The prime minister said:“ The opening of the NZICC is a proud moment for Auckland and for New Zealand. It’ s a significant investment in our economy, creating jobs, attracting international visitors, and supporting growth across tourism, hospitality, and local businesses. Just as importantly, it’ s a place built for people. It is where ideas are shared, relationships are formed, and communities connect.”
Renè de Monchy, CEO of Tourism New Zealand, added“ The NZICC plays an important role in positioning New Zealand as a world-class conference and exhibition destination. It gives us the capability to welcome the world in a whole new way and plays an important role in accelerating international visitor arrivals for the Auckland region, and beyond.”
The venue was designed by Warren and Mahoney, Moller Architects, and Woods Bagot. n
NZICC Opening Ceremony( Kingi Makoare NWO)
Top right: Nau mai, haere mai screen
Middle right: Andrew Reding Fletcher Building managing director and group chief executive officer
Bottom right: Jason Walbridge,
Marama Royal, Christopher Luxon and Wayne Brown
ISSUE 141 / CONFERENCE & MEETINGS WORLD / 47