A new industry survey from Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) and Ringa Hora Services Workforce Development Council shows workforce growth is predicted for New Zealand’s business events sector, making the development of a skilled workforce paramount for its future success.
Over 70 per cent of organisations are anticipating a rise in the number of business events in the next three years, with 44 per cent saying they plan to recruit more staff, particularly for roles like event coordinators and managers, the survey shows.
BEIA chief executive Lisa Hopkins said that the survey report reflects industry optimism for the future, with many organisations ready to take on new people.
“The report also highlights that attracting young talent remains a significant challenge. BEIA and Ringa Hora are working together to boost the next generation of business events professionals by creating a sector-specific training programme,” she noted.
Findings from the survey are being used in the development of Te Haeata, a new vocational training programme for the business events sector, which will be officially launched in November 2025 at the BEIA conference in Auckland.
“We are currently awaiting NZQA approval on the Te Haeata modules, with the intention to deliver this new qualification and skill standards as a mix of online and on the job training,” Hopkins revealed.
With four modules in total, and stackable credentials on offer, the first module has also been designed to roll out to high schools as an initial stepping stone into the world of business events.
The focus is two-fold, indicated Hopkins. First, the industry must introduce itself to the next generation of professionals, outlining career pathways within Tourism, Hospitality, and Events. Second, as most staff enter from hospitality or tourism, the survey indicates a need to deepen understanding of sector-specific career opportunities, particularly in event coordination.
“Raising awareness of the business events industry as a viable career path is seen as the most effective way to address the skills gap. This will be an opportunity to tell the stories of those who have forged careers in this sector here and overseas to inspire the next gen of industry professionals,” Hopkins said.
Ringa Horas general manager, partnership and engagement, Mel Harrington, shared: “It is exciting to introduce a new, fit-for-purpose product developed by and for industry as we look to the future with optimism and acknowledging the importance of having a skilled and talented workforce.”
The report identified communication skills (verbal and written) as the most important soft skills, followed by attention to detail and problem-solving. Technical skills in designing immersive events and proficiency in event management software are highly valued. Financial support and flexible training schedules are identified as the most beneficial opportunities for training.
“It’s clear that leadership and mentorship matter more than ever. Ensuring a resilient industry, which looks to the future and the people who will one day be spear-heading it, is vital. What we are doing today is developing the foundations for our industry to continue to thrive,” Hopkins said.
The Workforce Development Survey Report analysed workforce development needs, critical skills gaps, and recruitment trends in New Zealand’s business events sector for 2025 and beyond. Results came from over 130 key business events-related organisations.
The full Business Events Workforce Development Survey Report 2025 can be found here.
Downing brings over 30 years of luxury hospitality experience across South-east Asia, Australia, and the Indian Ocean. He most recently led The Siam in Bangkok.
