Matariki, the cluster of stars known to many as the Pleiades, marks the Māori New Year, a time of connection and renewal. And earlier this week, Rotorua in New Zealand Aotearoa experienced an early Matariki as its night sky was lit up by 160 drones depicting the story of Matariki above Rotorua Airport. The 12 minute light and sound show marked the beginning of MEETINGS 2024, a fitting parallel to the networks made and opportunities presented at MEETINGS 2024.
Held at the Energy Events Centre, this two-day trade show, organised by Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA), showcased New Zealand’s premier business events products and services, providing a platform for networking, learning, and business growth.
According to BEIA chief executive Lisa Hopkins, MEETINGS 2024 served as a crucial “economic driver”, fostering relationships and showcasing local businesses, the NZ Herald reported.
Highlighting the economic benefits, she pointed out that business events bring investment, jobs, and growth. They also attract visitors to New Zealand, creating a welcome counterpoint to seasonal fluctuations in leisure tourism.
MEETINGS 2024 fostered global connections between industry professionals, stakeholders, and exhibitors. Award-winning speaker Ngahi Bidois captured the event’s essence: “MEETINGS is about relationships and developing those relationships. I’ve been coming to these for a few years, and it’s just so good for us as an industry to know each other and to be able to support each other as well.”
Strengthening industry ties: PCOA and BEIA Sign MoU
In a significant development, MEETINGS 2024 also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Professional Conference Organisers Association (PCOA) and BEIA. This agreement aims to strengthen the business events industry in both Australia and New Zealand, fostering closer collaboration and creating new opportunities for growth and innovation. The MoU reflects a commitment to building a more resilient and interconnected industry, capable of navigating the challenges and opportunities of the future.
For those who attended, MEETINGS 2024 was not just a business event; it was a celebration of New Zealand’s unique identity and a powerful demonstration of the potential that lies in unity and shared vision. As we look forward to future events, the spirit of Matariki will undoubtedly continue to inspire and guide the business events community in New Zealand and beyond.
