Following the formation of New Zealand’s new coalition government, the business events industry is calling for all-of-government recognition for the sector.
Business Events Industry Aotearoa’s (BEIA) chief executive, Lisa Hopkins, pointed out that the industry straddles a broad variety of ministerial portfolios.
“New Zealand’s business events industry impacts not just tourism, but diverse industries and government departments. Our sector has immense potential to influence New Zealand’s economic and social indicators, and our global reputation as an exceptional world-class destination.
“We want to work with government to support the sector, enabling it to increase its reach and potential, but, most importantly, realise the positive impact the sector plays in delivering outcomes for New Zealand and New Zealanders.”
Hopkins added that BEIA has prepared a “comprehensive briefing document” for the incoming ministers, and will “proactively engage with Ministers and their policy advisors of many portfolios, including Trade, Immigration, Foreign Affairs, Health, and Economic Development”.
Business Events is one of Tourism New Zealand’s top four strategic markets, delivering investment, jobs, and economic growth, and significantly contributes to the hospitality, retail, and transport industries,
As such, BEIA is calling for sustainable funding through the application of a visitor levy for distribution across the visitor economy, including business events.
“New investment is also needed to secure international conferences for New Zealand. As the world’s last developed nation to unveil a range of state-of-the-art, eco-friendly centres, we are setting the benchmark for others, but we are playing on a global stage which requires support. The returns, however, are significant.”
Hopkins also called for the new minister for tourism and hospitality Matt Doocey to provide direction and support to the TDLG (Tourism Data Leadership Group), to ensure the industry is measured accurately to reflect its value.
“As well, we look forward to continuing the good mahi (work) done to date with Immigration, as we collaborate on a process to streamline access to New Zealand for attendees from non-visa waiver countries. This is an excellent example of government and industry working together to find a solution,” Hopkins stated.
