The efforts of 31 people who have secured international conferences for New Zealand have been recognised at an event in Auckland.

Stephen England-Hall, chief executive Tourism New Zealand told attendees that hosting international conferences delivers significant benefits for New Zealand and New Zealanders.

“In addition to the estimated NZ$37million they will contribute to the economy, these conferences also bring over 18,000 international experts to New Zealand."

 

Tourism minister Kelvin Davis added that he sees potential in international conferences to help grow New Zealand’s business, research and technology sectors.

 

“The government wants to foster sustainable growth through innovation, technology and high-paying jobs. I believe international conferences provide a starting point for bringing real benefits to our business, research and technology sectors which has a flow on effect to all New Zealanders,” he said.