March/april 2017

When in Melbourne, why not party in the laneways? InterContinental Melbourne the Rialto hosted AIME buyers to a market-style dinner in its very own laneways. Ease of gaining visas Kiwi buyers, from left, Nicky Remkes, Tom Dick and Harry Event Management; Katie Bowden big plus for NZ events Tregoat, Dinamics; Emma White, By Julie Cleaver DTR; Adam Leslie, Event Travel Management; Crystal Bradnock, New Zealand destinations bidding for international BCD Travel; Camilla Taylor, S2N conferences should put more emphasis on the ease and Lucy Heald, LH Events. of gaining visas to enter the destination from many Photo: Trish Freeman countries around the world, a high level industry phenomenon where clients are asking for gathering in Auckland heard recently. more results with a lower budget. This is proving to be a major challenge for Michelle Crowley from the Professional the leader of global development strategy conference organisers across the world, Convention Management Association and global education and communications especially due to the rising cost of food and [PCMA] says that for 50% of countries it is channels at PCMA. other amenities. easier to obtain a visa to enter New Zealand This information was shared at a rather than Australia. presentation run by the Auckland Convention Muffingate ‘Visas are becoming a huge issue, especially Bureau and Tourism New Zealand called in North America and Europe. Therefore New ‘Five Trends Shaping the Future of Events’. It ‘In America we had a ‘muffingate’ crisis, Zealand being easier to gain a visa for is a was held at the Rakino Room, ANZ Viaduct where muffins started costing something major selling point for the conference scene Events Centre late February. like $20 each. Of course there are other costs here, and one you should include in your At the event, Crowley spoke about associated with that, but it still became quite pitch for international bids,’ says Crowley, trends in the industry, including one recent ridiculous,’ says Crowley. ...continued on page 4 [ Editorial / News

Contents Note from the editor...

FEATURES Working together Personality 13 Taranaki Famil 16 New Zealand is heading into its ‘business actually the serious competition. These latter events expo season’, when regions and the people know that if you get people into your Green Desk 18 country get together to promote their various region, work as a team and really show the Convene Preview 21 accommodation, venues and other products area off it will help attract business now, next AIME Review 44 and services. month and in the years to come. So everyone The regions that invariably do best out of benefits in the end. West Coast 48 these shows are the ones that ‘hunt as a pack’ A lot of regions in New Zealand do get this Waikato 52 – realising that if a conference or incentive and I was lucky to be in Waikato recently where comes to the region they will all benefit, both the big and REGULAR FEATURES either in the short, medium or long term. small players realise Over the years I have been in the industry they have to promote News 4 it never ceases to amaze me how some people the region first and Social Scene 14 (and it still happens) regard the conference themselves second. centre down the road, or the hotel a few The proof is in the Industry Update 20 blocks away as their big opposition. results. CINZ Column 58 And then just an hour’s drive away all the venues, hotels and attractions are working Stu Freeman Speaker’s Corner 59 as one – realising their local mates are not Acting Editor Helping new conference people Organisers behind recent conference meeting newz is registered as a magazine wins for Wellington and is published by ProMag Publishing Ltd. Level 1, 172 West Coast Road, Glen Eden, were impressed with PO Box 60154, Titirangi, Auckland. the scale and variety Internet: www.meetingnewz.co.nz of services offered Phone: 09 818 7807. Fax: 09 818 7864. Acting Editor: Stu Freeman by the events email: [email protected] industry, when they Publisher: Stu Freeman attended Show Me email: [email protected] Circulation & Advertising Production: Wellington recently. Ruth Scott email: [email protected] Seven people from five organisations were Murray Early, Callaghan Innovation; Jean Administration Manager: Marg Patten hosted to Show Me Wellington by Business Hendry, Tourism New Zealand; Dr Nicola email: [email protected] Nelson, Victoria University; Professor Donald Events Wellington and Tourism New Advertising Manager: Heather Lowrie Maurice, NZ School of Music; Dr Meredith Phone: 09 818 7807 Fax: 09 818 7864 Zealand, including to the Buyer’s Luncheon Marra and Corinne Seals, Victoria University; Tommy Hamilton and Kevin Haunui, ILGA email: [email protected] which was addressed by Wellington mayor, Design & Production: Gary Covich Justin Lester. to run this major event. It was a real eye email: [email protected] These people are experts in their fields, but opener for me to discover so many services Printing: Image Centre they are not experts in running events, says and suppliers. We will need to be moving Distribution: Western Mailing Jessica Beyeler, Business Events Wellington. 400 to 500 people around so it was good ISSN: 1172-5893 ‘We have worked closely with Tourism to talk to the people who provide transport. New Zealand to identify these organisations In terms of entertaining and events in the and are working with their people to help city, and in the neighbouring Wairarapa and pull together the content they need, both for Marlborough areas, it was good to learn their bids and for running their actual event.’ things that we can pass on to people coming Kevin Haunui, Tiwhanawhana Trust and for the conference.’ co-organiser of the World Conference of the Other conference wins represented by International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans the hosted group were the International and Intersex Association (ILGA), to be held Viola Congress (500 pax, September in Wellington in October 2018, says he was 2017), Society for Conservation Biology blown away by the opportunities available Oceania Conference (550 pax, July 2018) for the hosts of a conference in the city. and International Conference on Precision ‘We are a community organisation and Electromagnetic Measurements CPEM (up to don’t have the capacity, knowledge or skills 600 pax, September 2022) [2] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 PACK FOR THE TROPICS, AND LEAVE YOUR PASSPORT AT HOME

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Another issue that has been well delegates could watch a screen and listen to documented is that organisers are struggling headphones of a seminar while working out. to get delegates to book the set hotel room ‘Our staff thought the idea was a little weird, blocks they provide. (An issue highlighted but it did really work well, and the equipment on the front page of Meeting Newz Jan / was always full!’ says Crowley. Feb 2017.) Immersive tele-presence is about having ‘This is old news, but room block demand guests watch the speaker offsite, or even is down, even though conference sizes offshore. Crowley says this is a great way to are going up. There are ways around this build a global presence and also encourage though, for example at PCMA we started people to attend the conference in the future. charging $200 more to people who didn’t ‘Because people get FOMO – a fear of book with us,’ she says. missing out – and when they see their friend at the conference or a great speaker, they will Positive phenomena have wished they went.’

Positive phenomena were also addressed, Speaker of the day, Michelle Crowley, Content safaris leader of the PCMA global development such as New Zealand’s large potential to grow strategy and global education and its international conferencing market. communications channels Content safaris is how people navigate ‘South East Asia presents New Zealand with through the information and space in a non- its greatest opportunity for growth, so you safaris, and tribalisation. linear way, and tribalisation is all about will all need to understand the culture of the Sensory analytics is in relation to ‘the creating a community feel through small- people from each different place.’ internet of things’ and other immersive and group interaction. Crowley says that even though the country tracking technologies. For example, at a Crowley also says that Airbnb, Uber, will never attract thousands of international conference, organisers could hand out bands Amazon and other new technologies are not conferences, it has a strong niche market that track clients’ movements, that way they disruptions, but rather slow-burning market and knowledge economy, which has helped could see who is going where. They could then developments that have filled large gaps in make it one of the best brands in the world. respond to any issues that they become aware the market. She also praised Tourism New Zealand for of through the data in real time. ‘So instead of blaming them for ruining having a strong working relationship with the Living 360° is all about incorporating health, every industry, instead figure out how to economic wing of the government. fitness, sustainability, organic food and other empower consumers and add value to their In regards to the five trends in the industry, trendy concepts into a conference. Crowley lives,’ she says. Crowley says these are: sensory analytics, says at one meeting PCMA ran recently (More photos in social scene, pages living 360°, immersive tele-presence, content they had workout equipment in a room and 14 and 15) NZ ‘best environmental stand’ The 100% Pure New Zealand stand won the Best Environmental Stand 2017 at the Asia-Pacific Incentives At the Pure NZ stand, speaker and CINZ cultural and Meetings Expo (AIME) ambassador Ngahi Bidois; Sharon Auld, CINZ; last month in Melbourne. Halen Bambry, Tourism New Zealand Judges based the award on waste avoidance, New Zealand, Business Events Waikato, ‘Our feedback from AIME 2017 has been energy efficiency, environmental quality, low Heritage and CityLife Hotels, Hobbiton™ excellent. Everyone enjoyed the show impact travel and communication. Movie Set, Millennium Hotels and Resorts, and came away with positive interest New Zealand exhibitors on the 100% Pure New Zealand International Convention and business. New Zealand stand at AIME 2017 were: Centre, Real Journeys, SKYCITY Auckland ‘The events New Zealand hosted on the AccorHotels New Zealand, Air New Zealand, Convention Centre, The Langham Auckland, stand, including networking drinks and an Auckland Convention Bureau, Auckland Tourism New Zealand. exclusive hosted buyer breakfast, gave our Conventions Venues & Events, Christchurch & Conventions & Incentives New Zealand partners fantastic opportunities to connect Canterbury Convention Bureau, Christchurch (CINZ) chief executive Sue Sullivan says with clients.’ Convention Centre, Conventions & Incentives the team was delighted to be recognised. (More from AIME 2017 starting page 44)

[4] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 Inspiring business events; it’s in our nature.

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these professional conference planners becoming advocates for Marlborough to their Marlborough’s corporate clients. New face ‘As a result of these visits the New Zealand biz events Bar Association has announced it’s bringing at bureau 150 delegates here in September, and another ‘on the up’ association will announce Marlborough as its Jessie Ross joins Christchurch 2018 conference venue later this year.’ and Canterbury Convention The new Marlborough Brilliant Business Bureau as bureau co-ordinator. Events Planner was launched recently and has Bureau manager Caroline Blanchfield grown by 25% through increased buy-in from says Ross brings a wealth of cross-over local providers. experience and transferable skills to the Mayor John Leggett says it’s great to new role. see progress already. ‘Six months on and ‘Working closely with Claire Hector- the benefit of having a dedicated business Taylor, she will be an exceptional development manager pushing Marlborough’s addition to our busy bureau team.’ conference and incentives sector is already In recent years Ross has held several delivering results.’ hospitality management roles in Destination Marlborough is also positioning Christchurch, including co-ordinating Marlborough as an ideal incentive destination the opening of the new Bunsen café for sales teams, valued customers or corporate at the Arts Centre. (More people news retreats. Attracting these small high-spending page page 12) groups to Marlborough is something the Nikki Roche from Destination region is working to grow. Marlborough with the new Marlborough Business Events Planner Marlborough’s national profile in the sector is increasing. This year’s CINZ Destination Marlborough’s conference planner has grown from three increased business events pages on Nelson and Marlborough to nine focus is paying dividends, pages of dedicated Marlborough content and imagery. Marlborough was also the destination says general manager cover story in Meeting Newz recently. Tracy Johnston. In June a delegation from Marlborough will participate in MEETINGS, a two- ‘In the last six months we brought 25 day trade show in Auckland which brings business event planners here to see first- together conference and incentive buyers hand how our region can successfully deliver from across New Zealand and Australia. business events.’ For the first time ever Marlborough will Johnston says the response has been host a group of eight Australian buyers for a Jessie Ross overwhelmingly positive, with many of regional visit prior to the show.

you before I would have saved months of Effective Communication to Help Spread the wasted time, I thought I was tech competent Knowledge. Easing but I’ve just learnt so much, after presenting ‘There is minimal education on technology at a conference or working in-house with and software use today, yet it is constantly small groups.’ changing. Everyone is challenged and there Mayo-Smith says these comments are so many diamonds of productivity the pain highlight the significant pressure that most they can learn. I speak at many executive feel – from business owners to managers assistant, association and industry There is unprecedented pain to executive assistants – dealing with the conferences as well as corporate ones and and stress in business today burdens of technology. ‘How do I manage 998 out of 1000 people would not be using hundreds of emails a day? How do I use the even the most basic time saving features in from increased workloads; cloud programme of Microsoft and Google their software. Event organisers tell me a information overload and to speed business processes? What apps are huge pain point is the endless repetition of constantly changing software there for my phone and tablet? How can I be typing the same type of email responses over and technology,’ says Debbie more efficient? Haw can I improve customer and over again. Yet there is the function - Mayo-Smith, one of New service and communication? How good is Quick Parts in Outlook (it’s in Word too) or Zealand’s most sought after social media for marketing?’ Canned Responses in Gmail that solves this Debbie Mayo-Smith has been nicknamed problem. This allows you to type something speakers and trainers. Ms Productivity, and over the years has out once and save it – preserving images, ‘This is why I hear comments like: you written 16 business books – from Conquer formatting, style. Think of the significant have just revolutionised the way I work, Your Email Overload to 101 Quick Tips to amount of time managing event emails this you have just changed my life, if I had met Create A Great Customer Experience to could save.’

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ACON0117 Meeting Newz Print A4 vf.indd 1 28/02/17 1:43 pm [ news

Hadyn Smith, NZ Institute of Surveyors; Hannah Keir-Smith, NZ Institute of Building; Marilyn Moffatt, NZ Institute of Quantity Surveyors

Yes, really they are eating bugs. Jamie Bidmead, Building Officials Industry of NZ and Katie Dartlett, Association of Consulting Engineers get peckish over a couple of locusts

Putting the bugs into events

Wellingtonians are proud Sir Richard Taylor spoke at the event, hosted Workshop. ‘Tourism has become a cornerstone to have the creative, Oscar- by Business Events Wellington and Te Papa to our business, we now have more than winning movie folk of Weta Venues, about the challenges and excitement 120,000 people a year come through our tiny, of putting together exhibitions such as Bug pokey little shop (Weta Workshop Cave).’ Workshop living in their city. Lab and Gallipoli: The Scale of our War. Siobhan Donaldson, Business Events Having one of the most famous Taylor also praised Te Papa as a Wellington business development manager, of them along to speak at a conference venue. ‘I’ve had the great was delighted that so many senior national function and personally guide fortune to attend many functions here and association representatives - chief executives attendees through the Weta- this is an extraordinary place to be part of and presidents - came to the event. ‘Seventy designed Bug Lab exhibition at an event.’ Just the sense that being in the percent of national associations are based in Te Papa Tongarewa, Museum building projects, a building that celebrates Wellington, and not all of them understand achievements of New Zealanders, as opposed what we have to offer here for their conferences. of New Zealand, was an added to a conference hall in other parts of the We wanted to develop relationships with these thrill for some 50 national world, was special, he added. people and show them what we can do here in association leaders recently. Taylor also threw in a plug for Weta Wellington,’ she says.

Emily Byrne TIA; Glenn Lust, Te Papa Sir Richard Taylor, Weta Workshop; Siobhan Donaldson, Business Events Venues; Kylie Robinson MTA Wellington; Elena Ford, Te Papa Venues; Andrew Cleland, Royal Society NZ

[8] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 news] Centre’s bookings heat up The New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC), Auckland, has booked another major conference for 2020.

It has secured the Tripartite Colorectal innovative technology and share the latest Annual Meeting with New Zealand based research in the field. The Annual Meeting professional conference organiser The will incorporate topic-specific symposia, Conference Company. The four day Tripartite expert panels, workshops, presentations, and Colorectal Annual Meeting will be held in New meet the professor breakfasts. Zealand for the first time and the conference The news followed the announcement will draw 1,200 delegates, generating an that the NZICC had secured its first major estimated 3,000 room nights and $2 million conference bookings, the 35th APAO Congress economic benefit to Auckland. and the IAPB 11th General Assembly, to be Callum Mallett The Tripartite Colorectal Annual Meeting held in 2020 for a total of 6000 delegates. brings together six colorectal organisations Callum Mallett, NZICC general manager that momentum is gathering with bookings from the United States, United Kingdom, operations, says that securing these at an early stage. Australia and New Zealand to showcase international conferences at the NZICC shows NZICC is set to open for business mid 2019. Changing roles at XPO Exhibitions

XPO Exhibitions has had a number of personnel changes across its trade show portfolio.

After 10 years with the company, exhibition manager Rob Lavender has moved to the Bay of Islands to run a B&B at his lifestyle block in Kerikeri. Tony Waite, XPO’s national event and sales director says that with the change Donna Swain Emma Nightingale came several opportunities within the team. Donna Swain has moved from a role within the NZ Gift & Hardware team to be exhibition manager for buildnz / designex (Auckland and Canterbury). Litesha Buffett is now lead exhibition manager for NZ Gift & Homeware Fairs, where she is supported by the recently promoted Emma Nightingale, now sales executive, NZ Gift & Homeware Fairs. Leroy Chai, who has been with XPO for nearly five years moves to the role of operations executive. (More people on the Litesha Buffett Leroy Chai move page 12).

+ + +

meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [9] [ News

PCOs back to where it began Marlborough correction

The January – February issue of Meeting Newz had misleading figures concerning accommodation in Marlborough. We indicated that Tracy Johnston, general manger Destination Marlborough, had referred to one hotel having 134 rooms. The correct figures are: Scenic Hotel Marlborough has 54 rooms and along with neighbouring hotel Chateau Marlborough with their 80 rooms provides a combined 134 hotel rooms within walking distance Barry Neame, PCO Association; Martin Winter, to the Marlborough Convention Gold Coast Tourism and Adrienne Reading, Gold Coast Convention Centre (assisted by Centre and adjacent ASB Theatre Commonwealth Games mascot, Borobi the koala Marlborough. The mistake was ours and we It’s back to the future for the PCOA (Professional apologise for any confusion. Conference Organisers Association) conference this year when it returns to the city where it all started 10 years ago. SKYCITY – Staging More than 400 meeting professionals will focus on future opportunities and are expected to attend the event at Gold examine industry growth and development. partnership Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre It will address the challenges faced by from 26 to 28 November along with 60 the dynamic conferencing, events and SKYCITY Auckland Convention Centre, trade exhibitors. meetings industry. has announced its continued partnership, PCO Association president Barry Neame Martin Winter, CEO Gold Coast Tourism with Staging Connections, which remains announced the conference destination at says having the conference return to the as the venue’s dedicated in-house AIME (Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Gold Coast on its 10th anniversary will be AV supplier. Expo) in Melbourne recently and says this a Segway to the Commonwealth Games Staging Connections has worked with year’s theme of MEETING Beyond Tomorrow in 2018. SKYCITY for 15 years.

Te Puia site developments

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[10] Tmeetinge Pnewzui [mara apr]si 2017te developments

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Wānanga Precinct - National Carving and Weaving Schools Whare Kai / Restaurant / Café

A WORLD-CLASS PRECINCT FOR STUDENTS, TUTORS AND VISITORS TRANSFORMING THE TE PUIA DINING EXPERIENCE News] The Conference Company opens Sydney office

New Zealand’s biggest convention and event organiser, The Conference Company, has opened its first dedicated off-shore office in the heart of Sydney.

Managing director and president of the global conference map, and the investment International Association of Professional in Australia represents a major push for new Jan Tonkin Congress Organisers (IAPCO) Jan Tonkin regional and international business.’ says the Castlereagh St office, headed by The Conference Company is an conferences and events. Asia Pacific manager Stephen Noble, is a accredited member of IAPCO, one of only 21 ‘We work closely with potential hosts and significant investment for the company. global companies in the World PCO Alliance industry bodies in both Australia and New ‘Face-time with clients and our industry and a member of the International Congress Zealand because tendering for international partners is critical to the success of our and Convention Association. Tonkin is a conferences requires significant cross-party business, so investing in Sydney bricks and member of the Professional Convention cooperation to land a successful bid in a mortar was a logical next step as we continue Management Association and recently globally competitive market,’ she says. to develop our international connections,’ addressed its Convening Leaders Conference The Conference Company has been Tonkin says. in Austin, Texas. operating in Australia since 2008 and ‘We are presently experiencing a strong Tonkin says the Australasian market is establishing a physical presence in Sydney, growth phase following the announcement reaping the benefits of increased investment with its infrastructural advantages, would of Auckland’s International Convention in the sector, which relies on a multi-agency open up more Australian, Asia-Pacific and Centre, which has put New Zealand on the approach to secure valuable international other international opportunities.

meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [11] [ people on THE move

Kelvin Chak Julia Edward has joined the EventSmart team as a full has the newly created position of sales time admin and warehouse assistant. Chak and event executive based in Auckland. joins the company after a stint as business Edward joins Team Up Events having development manager at Hotel Grande spent the last six years as a member of Auckland Airport. He also has experience is the New Zealand rowing elite squad. wholesale travel. A double Olympian competing at both the 2012 London and 2016 Rio Olympics, Edward was also a back-to-back world champion in the lightweight women’s double sculls in 2014 and 2015. Throughout her career Edward has gained experience in the Kate Drury has joined CINZ as its new MEETINGS corporate and public sectors, most notably acting as a youth exhibition manager. This follows the ambassador for Honda, and also sharing her story through a departure of Emma Searle to London. number of speaking engagements. At Team Up she will assist NZ Drury has more than 17 years’ experience businesses to transform their teams into world class operators. in the fields of advertising, design and marketing communications in Auckland, Melbourne and London. Drury has her Natalie Reid own consultancy business on Auckland’s North Shore and will is the new director of sales and marketing work with the CINZ team on delivering the event. at Pullman Auckland. Reid has 16 years of experience working in hotels in Australia, London and Auckland, including eight years with Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Chanelle Du Rand most recently The Langham Auckland will become conference and events sales for the last four years as director of manager at the Rutherford Hotel, Nelson. conference and events. Du Rand recently moved to New Zealand from Johannesburg where she has worked in five-star hotels in hotel operations, Nigel R. Edwards events and catering management. has returned to Millennium & Copthorne Hotels NZ after spending 10 years in Asia predominantly in Shanghai with both M&C Asia Stephanie Purdom and IHG. has been promoted to the role of He brings a wealth of experience back conference manager at Distinction to Auckland to open the new M Social. Hamilton Hotel. Purdom’s previous role was in the reservations department while the property was under former ownership. Mike Anderson joined The Events Group in February as team building and operations manager. Anderson, who was a Junior All White, Anna Edie has played semi professional football is general manager Crowne Plaza overseas. Since then he has had extensive Queenstown. Australian-born Edie, coaching experience. He also brings a 33, takes the helm at Queenstown’s wide range of operational experience from lakefront hotel after eight years with a variety of sectors. Anderson has worked InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), most with The Events Group team on a casual basis over the last three recently as executive assistant manager at years and already has experience in a wide range of events. InterContinental Sydney Double Bay.

MEETINGS ON THE MOVE

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[12] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 Personalit y]

Dorothy Collis with James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor general manager Steve Martin recalls mixing with Elton John and the cash-splash days of the ‘80s

meeting people and to think on your feet with the challenges they throw at you. ‘Every day has been a fresh new one, clients never ceased to amaze me with their last minute emergencies,’ she says. The most important considerations for managing events, Collis believes, is having a ‘can do’ attitude, attention to detail, and to remember a client’s special requirements from the last event they held with you. ‘I believe every client should be treated as the only one of that day.’ The pace of the job has sped up significantly since 2000, she says. ‘Digital enhancements in the industry command and expect instant responses. Conferences and meetings are booked at such late notice, even larger ones. Decisions are made as company directions change. You really are Lessons on call 24/7.’ Collis singles out a lunch and formal reception she hosted for the Sultan of from a long Brunei in 2013 as her most memorable event. ‘I’ll never forget sourcing items such as a throne, having an endless budget for career flowers and staging, and then being paid in brand new notes on the day, counted onto In 1972, Dorothy Collis my desk in $100 bills.’ Her other top memories include a two saw off 3000 applicants hour morning tea with Elton John and staff for a receptionist job softball games with Kenny Rogers as well as meeting Audrey Hepburn, Billy Joel, Rod at the then new James Stewart, Brian Adams and Tina Turner. Cook Hotel (now James At a recent farewell function, Collis also For the past 18 years Dorothy has been shared hotel anecdotes of days gone by. Cook Hotel Grand conference and events manager and in These included an after-hours bar hidden in Chancellor). That was that time – not surprisingly – she has seen the carpark to keep international hotel staff huge changes. in the hotel; an era without credit cards 45 years ago, and she’s Yet, in dealing with people there has when everything was paid in both New only just leaving the always been one constant. That, she says, Zealand and foreign cash and the heady ‘80s is change. ‘I love the constant change when people enjoyed massive entertainment building now. hospitality brings – you really have to love budgets and expensive fine wines.

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meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [13] [ social scene

Jaime Beetson, Nastassia Jennifer Donaldson, Jodi Preston- Dykman, Jennifer Griffiths, Thomas, Dawn Manaton, Kim van Caroline Wilson, New Zealand Duiven, all The Conference Company Trade and Enterprise Games in the Garden

From black jack to badminton, roulette to lawn bowls – SKYCITY Auckland Convention Centre held a function to mark the new year, giving its clients, suppliers and other business partners Trying their hand at a spot of Welcome to Games in the garden – a chance and network and dish out badminton… Claire Hooton and Esther Thorburn and Sally Tau, both the prizes. Megan Parlane, Bunnings The Kitchen c/o SKYCITY Buyers Getting updated The Conventions & Incentives boogie New Zealand business events sector update in Auckland was held at the Air New Zealand Customer Innovation & to beat in Collaboration Centre. Hamilton

Chrissy Johnstone, Air New Zealand; Leah Sharren, Hauraki Blue Charters; Chirs Hughes, Air New Zealand; Olivia Lynch, CINZ

Leigh Lewis, Scenic Hotels Group; Jane Paape, Johnson & Laird Management; Sarah Jackson, Sudima Hotels & Resorts Amanda Graham, Hamilton & Waikato Business Events; Raewyn Tse, Conference Innovators; Janet Matheson, Events & Conferences; Denise McRae, Claudelands Conference & Exhibition Centre

Hamilton & Waikato Business Events team hosted buyers to the Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival in February. The weekend included taking in the Marley All Stars Concert and delicious catering Amy Griffith,A uckland Convention Sharon Auld, CINZ; Maxine Wallis, Bureau (ABC); Heather Shaw, The Events by The Verandah. The Langham, Auckland Group; Kimberely Mackay, ACB

[14] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 social scene] What’s trending to Home at shape events? Horwath A presentation was staged earlier this year by Auckland Convention Bureau and HTL’s Tourism New Zealand called ‘Five Trends Horwath HTL had its annual get- Shaping the Future of Events’. It was held at together at its Auckland offices for the Rakino Room, ANZ Viaduct Events Centre clients and friends of the firm early in Auckland and featured speaker Michelle March. Director Stephen Hamilton Crowley from the Professional Convention introduced the Horwath team and had a Management Association [PCMA]. few choice words about some key issues – including targeted rating of Auckland accommodation providers. Leonie Ashford, Tourism New Zealand; Michelle Crowley, PCMA; Lisa Edser, Auckland Convention Bureau

Siobhan Donaldson, Positively Wellington Tourism with fellow Wellingtonian Jo Darby, Venues Paul Walker, Convention Management Wellington and South Island-based Claire Hector- New Zealand; Janine Carson, Sam Taylor, Christchurch & Canterbury Convention Bureau Kitson, both Horwath HTL

Jessica Vandy, Tourism New Zealand with Karen Franken from Auckland Convention Bureau

Michelle Crowley, PCMA; Tania Adolphe, John Farrell, Horwath HTL; David Comery, TMS; Jan Tonkin, The Waipuna Hotel and Conference Centre; Conference Company; Jason Hill, Auckland Tourism Events and Nicky Tilsley, TMS Economic Development

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meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [15] [ Taranaki Famil

Not to be overlooked By Ruth Scott

until Shelley Eastwood from Heritage Hotel Surf’s up at the Devon for Rob Davies, The The philosophy of the Taranaki Devon Hotel; Terri Van Schooten, Verve – region can be summed up Management approached me about the the Event Agency; Corrina Pittwood, The possibilities available here and it sparked an Devon Hotel; Shelley Eastwood, Heritage in a simple statement says idea. We need to keep our conferences within Hotel Management; Debbie Paardekooper, Avenues Event Management; Janette Lewis, Blair Withers from Withers New Zealand, while all the time ensuring Altus NZ and Peter Tennent, The Devon Coachlines: ‘Environment first, each one is fresh for our delegates.’ Hotel. Front - Lisa Chambers, Bupa Care Eastwood says meeting planners often Services; Heidi Buchmann, Soltius; Ashley community and then business.’ Astells, Avenues Event Management; Tiffany overlook New Plymouth. ‘It’s great for Henderson, In-House Lawyers Association of Event organisers experienced this groups to look at provincial cities like New NZ and Melissa Perkin, NZ Bar Association approach when they joined The Devon Hotel Plymouth. It’s a competitive conference and Heritage Hotels on a two-day famil to destination in regards to affordability and vehicle launches, weddings, gala dinners New Plymouth recently. They also received a more can be done with the budget.’ and exhibitions. ‘We stock a wide range taste of Taranaki hospitality. of equipment and accessories including The eight-member delegation from Discover the Devon tablecloths, tabletops and chair covers which Auckland and Wellington was on a fact- helps keep costs down,’ says Davies. The finding mission. The group stayed at The Devon Hotel Devon Hotel has three landscaped garden Heidi Buchmann from Soltius was seeking and feedback was positive on the recently areas and eight smaller break out rooms, a accommodation and conference space for opened conference centre. General manager heated swimming pool and spa, off-street 160 as well as an off-site dinner venue for Rob Davies says the soundproof space has parking for 60 vehicles and renowned a two-night conference in February 2019. capacity for up to 750-theatre style and 400 Marbles Restaurant. ‘I hadn’t initially considered New Plymouth for a formal banquet and has been used for The 102-room property joined the Heritage

Lisa Chambers, Bupa Care Services; Janette Lewis, Altus NZ and Heidi Buchmann, Soltius at Pukekura Park

Trying on for size at Lushington on Devon Street are colleagues Ashley Astells and Debbie Paardekooper, Avenues Event Management

[16] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 Taranaki Famil]

Collection two years ago and owner and Crossing the Te Rewa Rewa former New Plymouth mayor Peter Tennent Bridge are Ashley Astells and says the hotel is synonymous with New Debbie Paardekooper, Avenues Event Management; Melissa Plymouth and Taranaki. ‘The Heritage Group Perkin, NZ Bar Association; is a good fit for us. It’s a quality brand, Tiffany Henderson, In-House with properties well placed throughout the Lawyers Association of NZ and Heidi Buchmann, Soltius country. Our business has grown, which in part can be directly attributed to being aligned to Heritage.’ Tennent says the MICE (meetings, incentive, conference, exhibition) market is growing exponentially. ‘Our facilities are now as good as you get and the teams both here and in Auckland are committed to ensuring we connect with the decision makers and follow through on delivery.’ The Devon has conference enquiries out to 2021 with confirmed bookings well into 2019. For art’s sake

Tapping into Taranaki’s art community, Eastwood arranged a programme focused towards local artists. Ringcraft Moana holds jewellery workshops tailored to conference delegates and partner programmes. The studio caters for groups of up to 22 at any Withers Coachlines provided the transport accommodate 150 to 160 delegates. ‘We one time and classes include bracelet making throughout the famil. The company is well try to look for non-traditional areas for and Mt Taranaki Titanium pendant classes. versed in arranging partner programmes to conferencing while considering a region that The group also headed for cocktails and suit as well as providing transfers in a range is not on the main track.’ Supporting these canapés with acclaimed photographer Fay of luxury vehicles from BMWs, minivans and regions is also important to Perkin, who says Looney at her gallery. Eastwood alludes 49-seater tour coaches. the association’s business can inject $50 to to the ‘arts trail’ as being a huge part of Okurukuru winery was well received by $60k into the local economy. Taranaki. ‘We wanted to show that there are the famil participants as an off-site venue ‘Last year’s conference was the first time plenty of options for delegates. From surf option. Located 15 minutes south of the we built in an activities component and it lessons, mountain biking, and a round of golf city, the cliff top estate has ocean and city worked really well. We have a wide range of or boarding a boat, it can be done here.’ views as well as expansive grounds and a ages to cater for; from late 20s through to Sticking with the arts theme, the Len Lye burgeoning vineyard. The winery can cater 70 plus. The team building activity proved Centre and adjoining Govett Brewster Art for up to 500 cocktail, with separate private to be a great leveler as it took everybody Gallery lend themselves to private functions. dining options in the Tasman Room for 80 out of their usual environment and The long foyer of the Len Lye Centre has had banquet-style, including access to a private encouraged mixing.’ 300 guests for cocktails and is regularly used lawn area, or 150 guests seated in the newly for fashion shows, wedding ceremonies and refurbished Barrel Room. corporate events. The 60-seat theatre offers Wine lovers can sample the locally grown flexible auditorium space for performances or and produced pinotage and pinot gris varieties guest speakers and even has a concert grand that Okurukuru bottles, and keep fingers Are you piano sitting in the wings. A gala dinner for crossed that the test batch of gewürztraminer up to 165 people can be set up in one of the vines will perform in the challenging volcanic larger gallery spaces. soil and sea air conditions. ready for Build it and they’ll come What’s on offer? your next Blair Withers says Jetstar commencing Janette Lewis from Altus NZ was on the event? its services to New Plymouth has been one lookout for venues with a seaview. ‘The New of the best things for the region. ‘The extra Plymouth Golf Club has the capacity (120 – Find out how we can help: capacity, frequency and the competitive 200 buffet style) and has the stunning views www.meetings.co.nz prices has helped put New Plymouth on the – so this is a definite possibility. conference map. We are seeing more business ‘It’s a bonus that the expansive deck is people coming to the region, which generates protected from the prevailing winds and awareness of what we have here. For flying all the doors open up for that all important 31st May - 1st June 2017, times, we are 40 minutes from Auckland and indoor/outdoor flow.’ ASB Showgrounds, Auckland Wellington and 70 minutes from Christchurch Melissa Perkin from the NZ Bar Association on the direct flight.’ was looking for conference options to

meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [17] [ green desk

AVT says LED lights are becoming more popular due to their environmental benefits

By Julie Cleaver Is sustainability Buzzwords like ‘eco’, ‘green’ and ‘sustainable’ still in fashion? are thrown around constantly in almost Cerelia Schipper from Audio Visual new equipment (without diminishing the every industry, often as Techniques (AVT), an event audio visual quality of the products). solutions company, says conferences can be a trendy marketing ploy exceptionally damaging to the environment Hotel sustainability rather than a serious due to the power used to run lights and the planet-saving scheme. plastic used for just about everything else. Also involved in the enviro-scene is The Therefore she says AVT has been trying to Langham Auckland, a brand that is well change its company policies to limit waste. known for its leadership in hotel sustainability. But according to various players in the ‘On the venue side we’ve observed a push The Langham Auckland has participated in the MICE industry – including an audio visual towards environmental awareness – drinks EarthCheck programme for 10 years and been company, hotel meeting manager, property served in reusable glass water bottles, snacks recognised with a Platinum Certification. developer and a professional conference and sweets served in glass jars rather than Natalie Reid, director of event and organiser – clients are increasingly asking plastic or paper cups. conferencing at The Langham Auckland, says for more environmentally and socially ‘Traditional lamps are being phased out clients are becoming more aware of the green sustainable practices surrounding their events. in favour of LED which is also less harmful options available at the hotel. As a result, many companies have altered their to the environment due to the significant ‘In the Auckland boardroom we have a practices to benefit both their back pocket and difference in lifespan.’ plasma screen that is interactive. It can turn the planet, proving that hosting sustainable Schipper says some suppliers within into a whiteboard and you can save your notes events is a real concern for many, not just a the AV industry are now using recycled or directly onto your documents, which therefore fashion statement. sustainably sourced components to construct means you no longer require flipcharts and need to take the paper notes back to the office. Conference organisers can bring in a USB stick with their documents that connects directly into the plasma screen. No need to bring in a laptop so power and energy consumption is reduced,’ says Reid. However, Reid says the industry as a whole has a long way to go before it can truly pat itself on the back. ‘I think the meeting industry is a little bit backward and there is a lack of information and standards to set a benchmark on how green conferences can become.’ Reid believes that in the future the influence will mainly come in the design A temporary campground is in phase when new conference centres are place while Camp Glenorchy, being built, considering the natural light a fully-sustainable incentive and HVAC [heating, ventilation and air destination, is being built conditioning] systems.

[18] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 Green Desk] Camp Glenorchy

Also in the way of sustainable accommodation is Camp Glenorchy, an incentive destination that will be Net Zero Energy (generates as much energy as it uses in a year) and take part in The Living Building Challenge – a rigorous building standards authority that is the highest standard for sustainability in the world. Michelle Trapski, director of Pounamu Holdings (who is organising the project construction) says guests will have an opportunity to learn about sustainable living by discovering the buildings’ power and The Social Enterprise World Forum happening in Christchurch water saving innovations, as well as seeing this year encompasses all the impact of their own energy-consumption elements of sustainability choices through an interactive iPad mounted in each cabin room. sustainable as possible. We are aiming rather than producing thousands of tickets,’ ‘Therefore everything at the site needs to to have 80% of suppliers from a social adds Lowsley. be sustainable as well as visible so it can be enterprise background. Being suppliers that Although this event is special in that the taught,’ she says. reinvest surpluses in social/environmental content is for social enterprises and therefore When the site is complete, it will be purposes. Benefits of social enterprise include related to sustainable business practice, landscaped in native plantings and able to hold innovative responses to societal issues, new Lowsley says in the past few years she has 70-80 people in two and three-room cabins. employment opportunities, and sustainable observed a general shift towards going green. It will also be able to host 60-70 delegates income generation.’ ‘I’ve been in the industry since 2009 and theatre style in a large classroom-like space. Lowsley says the forum is also investing I’ve definitely noticed that across the board The rooms are expected to be finished by this in sustainable initiatives such as material committees and delegates want to see more summer, and the configurable meeting room being printed on recycled paper, an app (to sustainable events with less wastage. Countless by early 2018. reduce paper consumption), having a waste delegates say they have cupboards full of Trapski says from a conference and incentive management plan (recyclables, landfill, satchels and programme books collecting dust, perspective, the company is hoping to attract compostable etc), and bikes being available for so it’s wonderful to be able to offer sustainable groups to New Zealand that have never been delegates to use to get between venues. alternatives.’ she says. here before, as well as local groups looking for ‘Instead of signage we will use clearly So although the industry appears to still somewhere different to gather. marked volunteers to point people in the right have a way to go, many clients and organisers ‘The facility can be used by special direction. The app will get our partners’ logos are moving towards a more environmentally interest groups as well as for groups of out there and we are also using QR codes friendly business model – showing that the people who are interested in both beauty on people’s nametags. That way delegates eco trend is not just a fad, but a statement that and sustainability,’ she adds. can scan into events they are registered for is here to stay. Camp Glenorchy is founded by two Americans, Paul and Debbi Brainerd, who The Langham Auckland, a leader in hotel sustainability Trapski says are lifelong sustainability advocates and philanthropists. All profits from the operation of Camp Glenorchy and Mrs Woolly’s General Store, a sister property next door, will go to the Glenorchy Community Trust to benefit regenerative projects in the community. She says the couple hopes to inspire businesses to think greener and also aims to attract long-term visitors to Glenorchy year-round. Social Enterprise Forum

Encompassing all areas of ethical organisation is the Social Enterprise World Forum, happening in Christchurch this September. According to forum organiser, Terri Lowsley (Conference Innovators), this event is taking all aspects of sustainability into consideration – from the paper brochures to the transport options. ‘We are trying to make the event as

meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [19] [ Industry Update Venue gains momentum A venue that is likely to gain momentum for corporate meetings was officially opened recently at Vodafone Events Centre in South Auckland.

Prime Minister Bill English was guest of Business events utilising the Momentum honour among dignatories that included Hub, overlooking Vector Wero Whitewater Maori edlers and charity trustees Park, will help support the six not-for-profit organisations that have free ‘container’ still manages to offer different levels of corporate groups can meet before or after space at the complex. (Vodafone Events community events for free.) a whitewater rafting session. There is also Centre is run by a not for profit organisation The Momentum Hub also has a small a barbecue pit area for lunch and evening that is completely self-sustainable but meeting room (capacity of about 20) where get-togethers. World Vet Congress for Auckland New Zealand has won the bid to host the World Veterinary Association’s (WVA) 36th Congress.

Are you Mark Ward and Anne Fecser

ready for Between 3000 and 4000 international continuing education and events. delegates are expected at the congress, which ‘The goal is to find a balance between your next will be held in the NZICC in either March or being a global event, and one that is April (the exact date is yet to be confirmed). appealing for New Zealand veterinarians. event? ‘This is a fantastic opportunity for us to ‘Hosting a world congress is important not showcase New Zealand and our veterinary just to the profession, but to the country,’ profession to the world,’ says Mark Ward, she adds. ‘Tourism New Zealand has been Find out how we can help: www.meetings.co.nz NZVA chief executive. ‘At the same time, very supportive, and is sponsoring travel New Zealand delegates will have exposure for myself and Lotte Cantley (NZVA CPD to what we know will be a stellar lineup of academic director) to this year’s congress international speakers.’ in Korea so that we can learn more about While the congress will be in the hands of what we need to be doing between now and 31st May - 1st June 2017, ASB Showgrounds, Auckland an international WVA conference organizer, 2020. TNZ is also designing our logo and the NZVA will provide expertise for social marketing materials, and we’ll be promoting functions, says Anne Fecser, NZVA head of the New Zealand congress in Korea.’

[20] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 convene 2017 preview]

Innovative programme gives organisers fresh opportunities A new venue, a choice of four exciting famil programmes, a

refreshed Knowledge Seminar programme and a myriad of prizes Flashback to last year’s Convene… the 2017 for buyers are just some of the exciting features of Convene 2017. version is on 11 April

Convene manager Allyssa Eastaugh says even more emphasis than usual has been placed on promoting the regions of the North Island and what they have to offer conference, incentive, meetings and Specialising in event organisers. quality Lake Taupo ‘Our four famils are designed to reflect this,’ says Eastaugh. ‘The trips accommodation include the South Auckland region, with highlights such as drinks at a with modern theme park. A lot of organisers will not have experienced this side of conference facilities Auckland, although it is so close to the airport.’ and relaxed dining. She says other famils will be visiting Taranaki, the Lake Taupo area, and Hamilton and Waikato.’ Details can be found at www.convenexpo.co.nz. All of the famils descend on the Vector Wero Whitewater Park for an innovative and fun welcome function on 10 April. The park is +64 7 378 8265 adjacent to the Vodafone Events Centre, where Convene 2017 is being [email protected] www.suncourt.nz

Austin’s has been a major player in Auckland’s catering and hospitality scene for over 20 years. Specialising in corporate events from banquets to major sporting events, Austins has experience creating an enormous variety of events. Recently opening the Momentum Hub which incorporates a pizzeria and Corona bar at Vector Wero Whitewater Park located next to the Vodafone Events Centre

09 302 9544 [email protected] www.austins.co.nz

meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [21] [ convene 2017 preview held on 11 April. Coast Tourism and The Salty Dog Inn (stand ‘This will be the first major business events 49) are offering a great holiday experience industry function showcasing the facility – accommodation in a suite with cooked and will be a great way for both exhibitors breakfast at the inn, a bottle of Mahurangi and buyers to really get into the swing of River wine, a bottle of Jones Road Apple Cider, Convene,’ says Eastaugh. a box of truffles from Chocolate Brown and a Vodafone Events Centre and Austin’s bottle of Mahurangi Olive Oil. Food Design Events are hosting the welcome A one night stay in a lakefront room with function, as well as the Convene Breakfast breakfast for two at the Millennium Hotel & which starts at 7am on 11 April. Resort Manuels is up for grabs on stand 117. Spoilt for Choice (stands 66 to 68) has two Knowledge premium hospitality packages to win. Suncourt Hotel & Conference Centre is offering one This year’s Jet Park Convene Knowledge night’s accommodation and dinner for two at sessions include sought-after Australian- Lake Bistro in a lucky business card draw. based keynote speaker and educator A welcome function at a Vector Wero Whitewater Park… why not? The event will Lynne Schinella. be one of the highlights of Convene 2017 Face to face She will address the breakfast on the subject Speak & Be Heard and then talk about SKYCITY Auckland Convention Centre is Eastaugh says that while the fun and Working With People You Just Don’t Get in giving buyers the opportunity to Walk the education aspects of Convene are obviously the first dedicated seminar of the day (11am Plank and Win in the venue’s virtual world. important drawcards, the opportunity to make to 11.30am). Attendees should go to stands 55 and 56 to see a number of contacts and source all business From 2pm to 2.30pm, Christina Duthil what it’s all about. events needs under one roof in one day (Balao Yoga) will speak on the subject Wellness Meantime Executive Gifts is remains the key reason to attend Convene. in Your Workplace. operating a business card draw on ‘Our format is all about doing business stand 5 to win a gift basket and bottle efficiently – whether this means actually Walk the plank of Champagne. closing a deal on the day or simply making Mantra Group is giving away two nights new contacts and renewing existing ones for Fun activities and the chance to win prizes of accommodation and breakfast for two at the benefit of future opportunities.’ are another aspect of Convene and this year Parehua in Martinborough. And Matakana www.convenexpo.co.nz

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[22] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 NO MATTER HOW BIG OR SMALL WE HAVE A CONFERENCE ROOM THAT CATERS TO ALL!

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The Rotorua-based operators on display will include hotels and accommodation Rotorua exhibitors – providers, event venues, luxury yachts and adventure tourism activities – all options that can be utilised for convention or incentive programmes. 40% more Destination Rotorua business events manager Craig Murray says the region is a diverse place with a vast range of conferencing and incentive choices. ‘Whether it’s walking among the treetops, rafting the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world or enjoying canapes in front of a 30m tall shooting geyser, Rotorua will wow any conference group,’ Murray says. ‘We boast over 80 activities and attractions and have solutions for all types of events, from intimate incentive groups to large 3000 plus delegate conventions,’ he adds. The redwoods in Rotorua can Murray also indicates that after a very be used as a dramatic function successful 2016, business is looking even setting for conferences better for the year ahead, with the destination already scoring some good wins for 2017. Rotorua will be better represented than ever before at At Convene, on 11 April at the Vodafone Auckland’s Convene Expo this year, with 40% more exhibitors Events Centre in Auckland, Murray says it than it showcased in 2016. This will give buyers a glimpse will feel as though guests are stepping into a redwood forest at Destination Rotorua’s into why the destination is gaining momentum and becoming stand. ‘We intend to showcase the natural a must-see destination for conferences and events. beauty of Rotorua.’

TRoPICAl FAnTASTIC FAR noRTh ConFeRenCe & meeTInG venue, The RAmAdA ReSoRT ReIA TAIPA BeACh WIll TICk All The BoxeS you need FoR A hASSle FRee evenT.

With tropical grounds, breathtaking sea views out to karikari Peninsula, fabulous food, newly renovated rooms and fantastic service we pride ourselves on true kiwi hospitality where nothing is ever too much trouble. • Studio, 1 and 2 bedroom units either poolside or beachfront will give your delegates the feeling they are away on a Pacific Island. Come visit us • Cafe/Restuarant and bar facilities • Function room on stand 48 at • Swimming Pool, Spa and BBQ area Convene • Tennis Court • Sky Guest Select

Relax by the beach, leave the rest to us www.ramadataipa.co.nz Ramada Resort Reia Taipa Beach [email protected] 22 Taipa point Road 09 4060656 Taipa 0800 142 TAIPA (82472)

[24] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 convene 2017 preview]

Taupo… an added bonus is spectacular scenery Big year ahead for Taupo This year nine conference and incentive suppliers will represent the Great Lake Taupo region at Convene. Karen Rainbow, business events and trade manager for Destination Great Lake Taupo, says the region’s strong presence at Convene is a testament to its booming MICE industry. ‘Conferencing in Taupo is looking to be a big year in 2017 again. Many of our main venues are already booked or receiving enquiries for some of the popular conferencing months, so I encourage those thinking of Taupo for their events to make enquiries early,’ says Rainbow. In terms of what the destination will be promoting at Convene, Rainbow says, ‘Our main message is that Great Lake Taupo offers a range of options for all budgets, just a short flight or drive from the main centres and with the added bonus of spectacular scenery, clean fresh air, no traffic, and good old fashioned Kiwi hospitality.’ As well as exhibiting at Convene, the destination will also host a pre-show famil in coordination with the Convene event team to showcase what’s on offer in the region. ‘We will show buyers how jet boats, fast cars and fishing can easily be incorporated into a busy conference programme, as well as showing some of the more unusual options for meeting venues,’ adds Rainbow.

Choose your AV partner carefully, choose the best Choose Vidcom

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meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [25] [ convene 2017 preview AREA arrives at expo

AREA, a new Wellington conference centre that opened in July 2016, will exhibit at Convene for the first time this year. Jill Steffert, the account manager at AREA, says the team is excited to showcase its new Wellington property to the market. ‘As a brand new conference centre, we thought that exhibiting at Convene was a must as it will be a great way to get the word out about our venue to Auckland corporates who are looking for meeting AREA’s lobby, located in Wellington’s CBD space in Wellington,’ says Steffert. The property is based in the new purpose-built five-star Boulcott and plenty of natural daylight mean our meeting rooms are light Suites North Tower. This building comprises of 62 apartments – a and have a spacious feel,’ adds Steffert. great option if delegates require accommodation. The venue offers six different spaces for conferences, ‘We like to think AREA is a little different than your traditional ranging in size from 100 to 30 delegates (theatre style). It has style conference facility. High ceilings with over a four-metre stud contemporary furniture and modern décor.

The company’s display will largely focus on promoting its newest Corporates in the caves event venue and restaurant, The Waitomo Homestead. This refurbished A private concert in the restaurant offers both open air and inside dining options for travellers caves is an incentive and large groups. option available at This latest development means the venue can now host events of Discover Waitomo up to 700 people. ‘We also have amazing new facilities, tailored event packages and event collateral to share with everyone involved,’ says Shannon Gillard, brand manager – tourism businesses at Tourism Holdings Limited. Discover Waitomo offers corporate packages that combine business with adrenalin, such as black water rafting adventures followed by dinner. Alternatively, private tours of the world-famous Waitomo caves are also available, as are cultural experiences from the local Tainui. After taking a few years off, this In terms of what the organisation’s stand will look like at Convene, year Discover Waitomo will once Gillard says, ‘we will have our stunning new brand imagery displayed, again showcase at Convene. a TV with our events and incentives brand video, events books and details to hand out.’

COME AND SEE US ON STAND 111 AT CONVENE 2017!

www.exhibitionhire.co.nz / ph +64 9 579 9884 / fax + 64 9 579 9885 / [email protected]

Affiliated Companies

[26] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 convene 2017 preview] Reaching their Peak

Team Up Events has launched a new interactive business game, Peak Performance, and will promote this (among other things) at Convene 2017.

Stu Robertson, managing director of Team Up says Peak Performance is another example of combining fun, technology, and business related learning outcomes into one amazing Peak Performance… a new offering from Team Up Events experience for participants. ‘At Convene 2017 we’ll be showing clients to create engagement and encourage more than just an entertaining get together,’ that there is a lot more to our range of participation, our range of events can deliver Robertson adds. ‘It offers long term value by Team Building events and programmes than value and benefit beyond “a few fun hours connecting the activity to real world business just fun. out of the office.” applications to instill an important message ‘While we use fun as a major ingredient ‘A high quality team building event is or idea in your team.’

meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [27] [ convene 2017 preview

Distinction Rotorua Hotel Steven Emery, director of business development at Distinction Hotels New Zealand says Convene is always a great tradeshow that is beneficial for business, which is why the company continues to come back. ‘Each year Convene proves to be a successful industry trade show for Distinction Hotels. The show continues to evolve and with the change of venue this year it should yet another great show,’ says Emery. He says Distinction Hotels will be promoting the recently completed first stage Distinctively of its extensive refurbishment programme at the Distinction Hamilton Hotel. This refurbishment programme will see Convene the construction of 120 new accommodation rooms, set to be complete by the end of 2017. Distinction Hotels is making a return to Meantime, the new Distinction Convene and this year will be exhibiting with Christchurch Hotel is also under construction, with an expected opening date the Destination Waikato regional stand. of March 2018. Lighting the Flame Karaka Pavilion Flame Tree Kitchen will be ease anything from a morning tea to a conference or formal dinner. promoting its professional ‘We relish a challenge and utilise a catering and venue partnership approach to deliver outstanding solutions across Auckland, events every time,’ he says. Famed for playing host to the both in its venue and offsite, international thoroughbred auctions at while also highlighting the Karaka, the Karaka Pavilion offers a venue Karaka Pavilion. with a real difference. ‘From its extensive Karaka Pavilion encompasses four main gardens, stables and informal indoor and event spaces under one roof suitable for Phil Christou, key account and sales outdoor spaces, to a contemporary formal groups from 12 to 600. A pristine lawn manager, says the company’s specialised lounge and dining area, or the 600 seat provides a foreground between the pavilion catering team is based across seven kitchens, auction ring, there is a space suitable for and the stables as well as an additional space enabling Flame Tree Kitchen to deliver with any event or budget.’ says Christou. when weather permits.

Whanganui is big enough to entertain and small enough to keep it real. Come and see us at Convene 2017!

TAKE A NEW LOOK

[28] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 Inspired New Zealand Conferencing

With a stunning collection of conference venues selectively located throughout the North and South Island, take delegates on a unique voyage through the incredible scenery of New Zealand with Peppers. Peppers provides a comprehensive solution to all your conferencing needs with dedicated conference co-ordinators, exceptional service, a range of accommodation, excellent conference facilities and a collection of conference experiences.

Peppers Carrington Resort, Northland Peppers on the Point, Lake Rotorua

Set on a 3000-acre luxury winery estate on the picturesque Overlooking the sparkling waters of Lake Rotorua this lakeside Karikari Penisula, Peppers Carrington Resort caters for up retreat caters for up to 34 delegates boardroom style, with local to 100 theatre style with a spectacular backdrop across the dining experiences, luxury lodge features and just 15 minutes oceanside championship golf course. from the city.

Peppers Parehua, Martinborough Peppers Clearwater Resort, Christchurch

Set amongst the vineyards, with sweeping gardens and With a superb backdrop of the shimmering lake and mountain panoramic views, this secluded estate off ers inspired local views, overlooking the Championship fairways, this picture catering accommodating up to 60 guests theatre style and is perfect conference destination caters up to 200 delegates and only 75 mins from Wellington airport. is only 7 minutes from Christchurch airport.

To enquire call 0800 444 586, or come visit us at Convene 2017, on stand 2, for your chance to win* a one night stay at Peppers Parehua, Martinborough.

*Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability and bookable directly with the property. Prize to be drawn 11/04/17. Voucher is valid until 11/10/17. [ convene 2017 preview

War Memorial Centre, Whanganui Whanganui makes a splash Whanganui is bringing a giant waka to Convene 2017.

Waka Tai Kotuku will be at Convene

‘From the moment visitors enter the infrastructure, outdoor activities and a Vodafone Events Centre, Whanganui will vibrant arts and culture scene, making be making an impact: a 14 metre waka, Tai Whanganui and its surrounds an ideal Kotuku, will grace the foyer,’ says Louise conferencing destination. Follett, conference and marketing support ‘Whanganui is a place where heritage officer at Whanganui and Partners, the meets modern connectivity and our presence economic development arm of Whanganui will demonstrate how meaningful we can District Council. make a conference or event. Buyers will get the opportunity to meet ‘The blend of these qualities with our with six Whanganui-based suppliers at internationally acknowledged position Convene. These groups are: the Royal as a community at the forefront of Wanganui Opera House, Whanganui War the broadband economy means that Memorial Centre, Cooks Gardens Event Whanganui venues work from a forward Centre, the Grand Hotel and Ki Tai, a river thinking perspective. We find creative based activity and a conference provider. solutions to make your event unique,’ Follett says the district has impressive she says.

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[30] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 convene 2017 preview]

Upgrade at Waitakere venue Heritage Collection Waitakere Estate The Heritage Collection Waitakere Estate in the Waitakere Ranges, 40 minutes drive from the bustle of Auckland city, has announced an upgrade of the conference centre with new carpets, chairs, tables and bathroom facilities.

The room has been reconfigured to comfortably accommodate 20 delegates U-Shape or classroom style and 30 theatre- style. Three break-out rooms are also available in the venue. The hotel is now set for events for up to 60 people theatre-style with three conference facilities and 21 accommodation rooms. The property is also available for exclusive hire. Set in a 29-hectare rainforest sanctuary with Waitemata Harbour and city views, this property offers a range of meeting venue options, superb dining and team building activities onsite.

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Enquire now about our great venue options www.motat.org.nz/functions +64 9 815 5801

meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [31] [ convene 2017 preview

The new Glam Camping Village Castaways’ Glam Camping available soon

Castaways is opening a Glam Camping Village for conferences and group activities with a Kiwi outdoor rustic feel and hotel standard facilities.

Bookings are being taken now for an There will be a minimum two nights stay composted onsite. anticipated May opening, says Castaways’ and a minimum 12 guests. Shine points out that the village owner Gavin Shine. Shine points out the village will aso have an is designed for all weather and year The village will have 12 tents with twenty outdoor kitchen with pizza oven, three plate round use. four bedrooms, each with split king beds BBQ, spitroast and gas elements. Conference groups receive full use of all and ensuite to each room – giving a capacity Other features include an outdoor bar area, facilities, breakfast, lunch and dinner, and of 24 (own room) or 48 (twin share). It will stone fire pit area, piano, guitars, table tennis, a range of equipment. also feature a 15metre x 9metre (135m2) and soccer table. Delegates can be actively involved with conference room marquee and a lounge/ The facility uses biodegradable crockery, meal preparation if they choose – making dining marquee of the same size. utensils, glasses etc and all waste is their own pizza for example.

NZ Marquee Events “Committing to the exceptional treatment of our customers and making every event more memorable”

Committing to the exceptional treatment of our customers and making every event more memorable

NZ Marquee Events Limited A: Level 10, 21 Queen Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand A: 75 Patiki Road, Avondale, Auckland 1026, New Zealand P: 09 579 8334 | M: 021 180 1051 | E: [email protected] | W: www.marqueehire.net.nz www.instagram.com/nz_marquee_events | F: www.facebook.com/nzmarqueehire

[32] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 convene 2017 preview] Red with a rocket New app

Event Solutions will be presenting a new event app at Convene and also offering a 15% discount voucher for any solutions with the company booked before 31 May. Managing director Claire Webber says the company’s apps provide a simple solution for building and maintaining apps using Event Solutions’ own native iOS and Android app. ‘With a feature-rich and intuitive design portal, clients can quickly add Greg Ward has revamped his popular pages, update content, upload images, ‘Almost Elton’ Sir Elton John comedy add tables and links etc using an easily Seeing red… the understood editor.’ tribute, with new costuming and a piano piano in Greg Ward’s colour change from black to bright red. ‘Almost Elton’ tribute She says Event Solutions provides app has changed colour users with local support and services, undertaking the initial build and then Ward styles his performance on the Rocket impress delegates and guests. handing it over once the app has been Man’s Las Vegas shows, playing and singing He recently teamed up with Wellington’s released to the app store. classic Elton in contemporary style. Chris Lam Sam – an award winning Webber says Event Solutions has had The show is just one of the strings in performer, musician and author – to create a long involvement with Convene and is Ward’s bow. He is one of New Zealand’s most two new shows, OperaOpera (opera, classical looking forward to the 2017 version. booked Master of Ceremonies, and with a music and improvised mayhem with two ‘We also have a new business wide range of performance options to call on 18th Century dandies) and One Night Only – development manager, Judith Zandbergen, he offers great ideas to enhance events and The Davy Shelton Story. and she will be at the event.’

Custom Stand Design & Build The impressive Karaka Pavilion offers one of the most unique venues in the country. From its extensive Hire Furniture gardens, stables & informal indoor/outdoor spaces, to a contemporary formal lounge & dining area, or the 600- Signs & Graphics seat auction ring, there is a space suitable for any event or budget. Portable Displays Flame Tree provides professional catering and venue solutions across Auckland. We pride ourselves on our Flooring & Wall Partition Hire flexibility to deliver events and catering in any location, in venue or off-site.

Phil Christou 021 346 874 [email protected]

09 307 9585

www.flametreekitchen.co.nz www.karakapavilion.co.nz

meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [33] [ convene 2017 preview

By Lynne Why do stories matter? Schinella

My Greatest Achievements you can spread to do the same. the word about what you’ve done. Everyone And stories can make the complex simple. will be talking about the new boss anyway Many of us need (or want to) use stats and so a few stories about where you’ve worked data in our presentations. We think it makes and your wins, discreetly told and relevant to us look smart and if we can get the audience the current team, will help build your positive looking at the slides it takes the pressure profile. Be careful... too many all about me off us as presenters. Wrong, wrong, wrong. stories and you’ll end up Nigel No Friends. Nobody actually cares quite as much about Speaker at Convene 2017 Stories have impact when helping people your fancy graphs as you. Craft a narrative through times of change. Everyone has had around what the numbers mean and you If you are in a role where times when change was forced on them and will get through to your audience every you need to influence others on reflection, it was a positive thing. I love time. And if you think that you can’t put then look no further than these stories of change because it can show numbers into a story, or you can’t present storytelling for the most you, the leader, at your most vulnerable and them in a way that’s engaging, take a lesson therefore human, plus has the added bonus from the master, the late Hans Rosling and powerful tool in your toolbox. of showing that change can often be a check out his TED talk, The Best Stats You’ve I’m not talking the stories in good thing, even when it feels so Ever Seen. the beer garden after a couple uncomfortable at first. The right stories, at the right time, with of savvy blancs. I’m talking Here’s one from me that’s close to the purpose, will accelerate connection and about carefully crafted stories bone. My son was expelled from one school engagement with your audience, large or in Year 10. Devastation. Because of that we small. And they all lived happily ever after. relevant to your audience found another school which his mother will Lynne Schinella is a speaker and facilitator which support your message. be paying off till 2080, but he now refers to who works with companies to help create that time as ‘the best years of my life.’ That happy, productive workplaces. www. Stories can help us establish our authority, choice took a slightly (did I say slightly!!!) lynneschinella.com.au. She’ll be speaking at particularly useful in a new leadership role. wayward boy and forged a young man I am the Convene 2017 breakfast in Auckland. Without doing a PowerPoint presentation of so proud of today. I would have paid double Follow Lynne on Twitter @lynneschinella

TEAMS | GROUPS | CORPORATES

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[34] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 convene 2017 preview]

resort

SAFE, RELIABLE, PROFESSIONAL conference on the cliff tops

A secluded destination conference venue located 70km from Auckland’s CBD featuring: Coming • Multiple private venues soon to suit groups from 6-120 The Village • Onsite accommodation for 2017 Conference up to 80 guests (twin share) Auckland Phone: 09 377 0773 Email: [email protected] under canvas. • Onsite Day Spa, Restaurant, Wellington Phone: 04 387 4600 Email: [email protected] A luxury glam camping Adventure & Team Building conference facility for up Christchurch Phone: 03 379 5888 Email: [email protected] Activities to 48 people (twin share). Queenstown Phone: 0800 789 789 Email:[email protected] Dunedin Phone: 0800 789 789 Email:[email protected] Ph 09 236 5161 | Email [email protected] For more information - www.castaways.co.nz www.corporatecabs.co.nz Experience Castaways Resort for your next conference.

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LED lsighctinrg e Setagning draping • Extensive range of quality products • Message printing and embroidery sound Fast, friendly reliable service projection LOCATION • ANY • Free, no obligation quote TIME ANY EVENT ANY 7) For information on how Executive Gifts 44 72 can work with you please contact: 0800 B(08I0G0 2 SCS.CRO.NEZ EN Barb Christie .AVEVENT 027 233 8022 or 021 074 2460 WWW [email protected] [email protected] www.executivegifts.co.nz

meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [35] [ convene 2017 preview At a screen Making a mark near you... with marquees AV Events has experienced significant growth and expansion, with new equipment, staffing and a new warehouse, says Kelvin Colling, account manager – senior technician at the company. NZ Marquee Events Ltd, exhibiting at Convene for the second time this year, is now offering ‘We now offer high quality 3mm LED screens of any size and shape,’ he says. ‘AV Events specialises in 3D large span marquees for up to 1500 people. drawings, which help our customers picture exactly what Managing director Sam Dolbel says a lot of emphasis has been put the AV and furniture setups look like within a given venue into health and safety, an area the company now prides itself as being or environment. a New Zealand leader in. ‘We have also seen the continued growth of our video, ‘We have years of experience in producing high quality marquee lighting and audio departments to be able create a one stop events for corporate clients,’ he says. ‘We understand that corporate shop environment that our clients enjoy. We also offer event events require a special attention to detail and we only work with photography which saves customers from having to book suppliers who share the same high standards as us.’ separate companies.’ NZ Marquee Events is also adept at providing solutions for weddings Colling says no event is too big or too small for AV and has a number of packages that can be used as a guide. Events. The company has handled roadshows, awards ‘From small private functions to huge weddings and corporate dinners, product launches, annual general meetings, trade events, we have the right marquee to suit any job,’ says Dolbel. He shows and more. ‘We offer our services both nationwide adds that customers should talk to NZ Marquee Events about furniture, and internationally.’ lighting, staging, flooring and various other needs and requirements.

Online Empowering tech-savvy event professionals with solutions that work

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[36] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 LTIMATE VECTOR WERO THE U CORPORATE PACKAGES -BUILDING Get ready for a challenging, invigorating and empowering AM team-building day. At Vector Wero Whitewater Park, our corporate TE packages are all about creating the ideal atmosphere for you and your team to work together – in the boardroom and on the water. We’ve tailor-made a uniquely New Zealand team-building experience, H! beginning with a powerful and moving welcome by our local Maori US kaumatua (elder), where you’ll learn the importance of laying down R and accepting a challenge in order to succeed in business. Then it’s on Our corporate packages are all about to goal-setting and highly motivating workshops from Richard Jeffery, CEO of Second Nature Charitable Trust, owner and operator of Vector creating a great atmosphere for your team Wero Whitewater Park and Vodafone Events Centre, and NZ’s most successful gold medallist, Ian Ferguson. to work together – in the boardroom and And to bring home the message of whakakotahi, or unity, you and your on the water. Whatever your industry and team will take an exhilarating paddle down our Grade 3-4 river, guided whatever your goals for the day, you’ll be by our expert, safety-trained staff, topped off with a spectacular drop down the world’s highest man-made waterfall. inspired, invigorated and in your element The day winds down with a hot shower, then celebratory drinks and together at Vector Wero. pizza at our Sunset Bar. Also take heart in knowing that for each team member that participates, one student from the wider community will attend the Trust’s water safety programme for free. Contact us at info@pacific.org.nz to book an unforgettable day for you and your team.

770 Great South Road, Wiri, Auckland P 09 976 7777 www.wero.org.nz [ convene 2017 preview

Event Impressions is seeing increased Bespoke décor in demand demand for bespoke décor and theming

With a distinct trend towards requiring bespoke themes and décor, Event Impressions has been putting emphasis on refreshing and reviving its product range. Director Jacqui Alexander says many organisers, particularly the young breed of decision makers, are looking for original warehouses. But we have also ensured that we recycled wood and adaptable in their use. interior designs. have sourced new drapes, new centrepieces, ‘We’ve presented them with elegant chairs, ‘We still have corporates and associations new styles and more.’ chairs with seat covers and bench seats. They who are working on more of a budget and Alexander says a popular new addition is are exclusive to us and they provide a great we can meet their needs from our three a rustic table style (50 of them) made out of new option for functions.’

For enquiries, please email [email protected] or phone 09 300 2901

[38] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 convene 2017 preview] Win a night and dinner at the lake people or conferencing for up to 300 then Suncourt Hotel and Conference Centre… offering a prize at Convene 2017 look no further than Suncourt,’ says Alanna Finnie, conference and functions manager. Forty out of the 52 accommodation rooms capture the magnificent lake and mountain views. ‘We also have an array of accommodation options to suit all types,’ adds Finnie. ‘Choose from studio rooms to one, two and three bedroom units. In summer guests can cool down in our outdoor swimming pool or warm up in winter in the heated outdoor plunge pool.’ Lake Bistro is a relatively new addition to the facilities. It has a panoramic view of Lake Taupo and a new menu featuring classic to contemporary cuisine. Suncourt Hotel is in the heart of the Suncourt Hotel and The Nukuhau Room at Suncourt Conference Centre will run central plateau and guests have views of Hotel and Confernece Centre Lake Taupo and the mountains of Tongariro a business card draw at National Park from Suncourt’s lake front Convene giving buyers the rooms. Shopping, cafes and nightlife are a chance to win one night’s short leisurely stroll away. accommodation and The hotel’s five conference spaces all feature natural lighting, air conditioning dinner for two in its new and free wifi. Lake Bistro Restaurant. ‘Whether you require a meeting for two

Celebrating

Rotorua Energy Events Centre Sharing our Maori culture with you and your delegates Offering a multipurpose facility for your business event Room configuration options to fit your needs up to 3000pax Affordable accommodation options within a 5 minute walk A dedicated Business Event team to assist with your planning. RotoruaNZ.com

Contact the team to find out how we can help you: [email protected] 07 851 8651

meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [39] [ convene 2017 preview Guide’s accolade boost for region’s business

Lonely Planet’s declaration Len Lye Centre and Govett-Brewster Art that Taranaki is the world’s Gallery (photo by Patrick Reynolds) best region to visit in 2017 is being leveraged by the area’s industry to attract more business events as well as leisure tourism. Lonely Planet focused on the Pouakai Crossing one-day walk on Mt Taranaki and the Len Lye Centre adjoining the Govett- Brewster Art Gallery in New Plymouth as well as heaping praise on local eateries. The gallery is the hub of a rapidly growing hospitality precinct that also includes the TSB Showplace event venue and a number of interesting small spaces. It is at the heart of a new product targeted towards the meetings, incentives, conference and events New Plymouth’s inner city and a guided ‘The upgrades to Yarrow Stadium will (MICE) sector by Cathy Thurston of Discover experience through Pukekura Park. extend the hospitality options around Taranaki, that includes a guided tour and ‘The region has a lot to offer the MICE existing major events, and expand the dining in the adjoining Monica’s Eatery. market,’ says Thurston. ‘By presenting ready corporate and meeting opportunities Discover Taranaki offers a similar tour of to go options we are aiming to make it easier available in the region,’ says Ron Murray, Puke Ariki Museum, an historic walk through and cost effective to deliver for groups of New Plymouth District Council manager of any size,’ she says. venues and events. New Plymouth District Council is also Also on the council’s action list is a recognising the potential of the conference major redevelopment at New Plymouth’s and event industry, with plans well airport with a new terminal housing both underway for two new corporate suites to be Air New Zealand and Jetstar connections. constructed at the city’s Yarrow Stadium. The airport saw passenger number growth Overlooking the region’s top rugby of more than 20% in 2016, to over 411,000. ground, the lounges will add versatile The redevelopment will incorporate larger hosting options for up to 160 guests. The corporate lounge space, parking for more new lounges are due to be up and running aircraft, streamlined passenger processing, in July, well ahead of the All Blacks – while the terminal looks set to continue the New Plymouth with the back drop of Mt Taranaki (photo by Rob Tucker) Argentina test on 9 September. city’s commitment to impressive architecture.

AN interactive business game New in 2017 Take on the role of Expedition Leader on a 20 Day Summit of Mt Everest. Manage resources, monitor conditions, and ultimately guide your team to the top of Mt Everest and then safely back to base camp. An emotionally gripping tablet based interactive business simulation which enhances leadership skills and team dynamics through experiential learning.

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[40] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 npeventvenues.nz | tsbshowplace.co.nz

COME AND SEE US AT CONVENE ON STANDS  Stop and reflect on where your next event should be… Taranaki – for unique conferences and events in the #2 region in the world.

www.taranaki.info Email: [email protected] [ Industry Update

Make it Mahana for meetings, functions The Mahana Cellars

Mahana Estates in the The Mahana Cellar Door and Kitchen The venue features high vaulted combines a tasting room, lawn and ceilings and large glass doors that open to Nelson region is well courtyard. Exclusive lunch and dinner the courtyard. known for its organic, packages are available for up to 60 guests, Also available at Mahana is the Secret dry grown wine from while larger group numbers can be catered Cellars, suited for intimate events of up to to in the Mahana Cellars, with a capacity of 40 people. the Moutere Hills and up to 200 people. ‘The Cellars and The Secret Cellar in Waimea Plains but ‘The Cellars, on the ground floor of our the winery offer distinct and exclusive four level gravity fed winery, is built into environments for any event large or small,’ it has also gained a the hillside with a ‘living roof’ of tussock Pendlebury adds. reputation as a function and is distinctive in its architectural design,’ Mahana also has day conference offerings and events venue. says Claire Pendlebury, hospitality and in the Cellar Door and Kitchen, while cocktails events manager. on the lawn are popular. Specials in Christchurch

Peppers Clearwater Resort has a special discount BreakFree on Cashel, Christchurch is promoting a residential conference deal of $199 in a City Urban King room, including a full-day delegate package and breakfast. And Peppers Clearwater Resort, Christchurch has winter special rates from $190 for a bed and breakfast package for conference delegates from 1 May through to August 2017.

[42] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 industry Update]

‘In Christchurch the height is 2.9 metres with 343 square metres of function space Sudima’s elephant available – so it’s enough to get an elephant and her family through the doors, or maybe just a vehicle if you don’t have an elephant in the room on hand.’ Higgins says that the hotel redevelopment and upgrade of accommodation rooms is fully complete. ‘We now offer a total of 246 accommodation rooms along with 10 conference spaces ranging from smaller boardrooms that cater for 10 people to larger event spaces able to cater for 340. ‘Our economy rooms under went an upgrade in the last quarter of 2016 and in early February we re-opened these at a superior accommodation level. An additional 58 rooms are now back in the inventory. The lobby area at Sudima ‘This has been a welcome addition, Christchurch Airport especially to the conference market, with more rooms now available and the ability to Sudima is telling conference organisers to ‘Ask me about the offer superior twin share configurations to elephant.’ The promotional catch phase will be on fliers distributed conference organisers also.’ at trade shows, including the upcoming Convene Expo, and is Leigh says that in Rotorua the Sudima designed to emphasise the amount of height space available in is continuing its efforts of attracting the (particularly) Sudima Auckland and Christchurch Airport Hotels. association market. ‘Sudima is the largest hotel in the region and is within walking distance Leigh Higgins, director of sales – corporate, for larger pack in and pack out requirements. to the Energy Events Centre. We work closely says the main conference rooms at the two ‘In Auckland there is 3.2 metres in height with the team at EEC along with Destination hotels have large ground floor accessible and a total square footage of 300 square Rotorua, which has been active in driving space. ‘They have drive in access and are great metres available. business to the region.’

The centrepiece specialists

Showroom: 17/46 Ellice Rd,Glenfield (09)4419470

meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [43] [ Aime Review

The New Zealand stand at AIME From ‘beyond imagination’ to reality – NZ’s opportunity

Around 60 hosted buyers heard Jan and friendly; a country that is safe. An address by one of Tonkin, managing director at The Conference ‘But I’m a practical conference organiser New Zealand’s most Company explain the country’s unique so I need to know just how that sense of selling proposition (USP). something beyond imagination can be respected professional ‘As I travel I am always intrigued by captured and turned into reality. I thought conference organisers how New Zealand and New Zealanders are about how to best express what is so special described by others,’ she says. ‘A country on about the way business events are delivered (PCOs) was a highlight the edge of the world; a country of breath- in New Zealand and the words “together, at the New Zealand taking beauty; a place where the wine convivial, open, engaged, collegial, and food are fabulous; a place to try new accessible” came to mind. stand at AIME this year. activities; a country where people are open ‘But none quite resonated for me quite as well until I had a conversation with Lisa Gardner from Tourism New Zealand when she said ‘everything is close.’ ‘My company has the good fortune to be working with the organisers of the International Union for Health Promotion and Education’s World Conference coming to Rotorua,’ Tonkin says. ‘On paper it may look like a challenging location for 2000 plus delegates. But the Rotorua business events team were not put off for a moment. They listened carefully to what our client wanted to achieve and then looked to see how they could facilitate planning in so many ways – always staying true to the locale – a sense of place. ‘They brought local government to the table, they introduced us to those locally who will tell the story of health education Callum Mallett and Sarah Burlin, initiatives that have succeeded despite the New Zealand International odds, they came up with creative ways of Convention Centre with Tanya using the venue, they opened doors for Goodall, Panalytix discussions with local Maori about their

[44] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 Aime Review] participation and they described how we we can get to a place that works for both beautiful island for wine-tasting, ziplining, can deliver social events that, while for large of us.’ beach walking. numbers, have a boutique feel about them Tonkin also emphasises the closeness of ‘For the practical meeting planner being and are incredibly true to the region. experiences. able to make things happen so easily and ‘When I think of any number of conference ‘New Zealanders are open to sharing their knowing our delegates are in good hands is locations throughout the country I know I can expertise as I witness time and again with just the best feeling.’ depend on highly creative theming specialists technical tours and field trips coming to life. Time-poor meeting planners so appreciate who really do work magic and will happily Doors are opened, introductions made and one step to solutions and New Zealand excels talk with cultural performance groups, other itineraries planned in no time and delivered in creating these, says Tonkin. entertainers and caterers. I so enjoy seeing with enthusiasm by hosts. ‘Tourism New Zealand’s Conference our clients in lively planning sessions with ‘A survey of international delegates at Assistance Programme is particularly all the industry – everyone is thinking of the a global dairy industry conference we valuable. It is offered to any conference event holistically rather than each working organised showed that field trips were a key with over 200 international delegates, which independently. For a conference organiser, reason for registering. makes it very accessible. Not only is funding that is the secret ingredient. ‘Access to activities is easy. Only 40 available through that programme but ‘Contracting is a civilised process. There minutes drive from Auckland’s centre introduction to experts to help with bidding is an openness – tell me what you need, tell you are walking in rainforest. The same and marketing. The bureaux nationwide are me what matters, let’s discuss and see how amount of time on a ferry takes you to a equally helpful.’

Michael Shah, The Langham Auckland and Craig Hassell Conference Images advises meeting managers to book early. ‘We have high demand from August through to October in 2017/18/19, but there is plenty of availability at other times of the year.’ Auckland expanded its footprint within the New Zealand stand at AIME with a second stand and overhead digital screen to amplify the space. Anna Hayward, manager Auckland Convention Bureau, acknowledges that, for the first time, accommodation is expensive Kiwis kick goals at event in the city. ‘Auckland is a growth city,’ she says. ‘It is 11th on the RGI Crane Index, ahead of cities Strong enquiries, bookings on the floor and a like Dubai and New York. Five years ago Kiwi-style breakfast all led to a successful AIME there were about three to five cranes in the city, now there are 64.’ 2017, according to New Zealand exhibitors. Hayward says Auckland is about at its peak of demand vs supply. ‘Our occupancy Michael Shah, director of sales and day conference for 250 people in July 2018 rate is at 86%, annually we have 2.4m marketing at The Langham Auckland, says and it will be busy following up leads and visitors injecting more than $7b into the the New Zealand breakfast at AIME was preparing proposals. local economy.’ fantastic this year. ‘This comes off the back of a record July A proposed 3000+ rooms will come into ‘New Zealand has it (the breakfast) to December 2016 period where we were up the market over the next three to five years exclusively now and we spoke to new people $1m compared to the same period in 2015,’ when hotels such as Sofitel So, Ritz Carlton who attended,’ he says. she says. ‘We’re getting a good business mix and Park Hyatt are completed. In terms of appointments, Shah says buyers of multi-day conferences, dinners and day came with specific business. ‘So that is money meetings filling the gaps. New product in the bank. We had predominantly Australian ‘There’s a real buoyancy in Auckland but buyers and this show has been more about the challenge of the accommodation supply New product heightened the interest in corporate rather than association for us. We and demand is affecting conferences. We are quotes for Millennium Hotels and Resorts have written business – a 150 delegate, three- seeing more of the big corporates booking at AIME. day conference in September 2018.’ twin share rooms. Alison Smith, national director of sales, ‘This half of the year (January to June) conferences and incentives New Zealand High interest will be lighter because of the Lions Tour and and Australia says she has at least 11 quotes World Masters Games – we’re having trouble for residential Australasian conference for ‘We were busy,’ reports Gillian Officer, satisfying the accommodation component. Grand Millennium Hotel in Auckland. Smith director of sales - conventions and outcatering May is looking stronger than it would usually was also promoting MSocial, on Auckland’s at SKYCITY Auckland. ‘We had genuine as conferences slide into the shoulders of the waterfront, that will open in the second interest in people considering Auckland – major events.’ quarter of this year. ‘We’re taking bookings we’ve already confirmed a residential multi- Looking ahead through to 2019, Officer for the third quarter.’

meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [45] [ Aime Review Kiwi buyers check own country and beyond Jessica Hibbert, Camilla Taylor S2N and Lucy Heald, LH Events take time out at the end of the second day at AIME

products I didn’t know about as well as product we haven’t used in a while. ‘For Australia, Brisbane is hot. It is up and coming and for one of our conferences that alternates between Australia and New Zealand, Brisbane is very competitive with its pricing. It has funky spaces, and I’m glad I experienced Brisbane by attending ConveneQ last year.’ The Gold Coast was a focus for Lucy Heald from LH Events who has a group heading there. But she also looked at other options for 2018 such as Port Douglas and Cairns, as well as New Caledonia. Krystal Bradnock from BCD Travel tries to New Zealand buyers say get to AIME every second year. they took the opportunity ‘I’ve had a focused AIME and have gotten to find out more about Camilla Taylor from S2N had a 70/30 a lot out of it this year. I’ve mainly looked split of Australian and New Zealand at places I’m unfamiliar with to meet people their own country’s appointments. and build up new relationships. Being product at AIME – as ‘It was good to meet with New Zealand in Wellington, we don’t always get the well as using the expo to product at the beginning of the year, sales calls. looking at the year ahead,’ she says. ‘I’ve looked at Japan, Seoul, and then I discover opportunities in ‘Overall, my selection of appointments went to Hobbiton which I would recommend Austraia and beyond. was beneficial and I’ve learned about to my inbound clients.’ Regional destinations shine Alison Smith, of Millennium Hotels and Resorts, received plenty of interest in the regions, including Queenstown, Rotorua and Bay of Islands, from clients from further afield.

‘Rates are driving groups to the regions where they can book accommodation for under $200 a night in the high season,’ Are you she says. It’s this pressure on main city venues and accommodation availability that drove ready for more conference business to the regions in 2016 for Heritage Hotel Management. And your next the trend looks set to continue according to Dylan Rushbrook, general manager sales event? and marketing for the company. ‘Improved air connections have also helped,’ he says. ‘The regions are in a good Find out how we can help: Melissa Couch, Heritage Hotel www.meetings.co.nz position to get the displacement from Queenstown; Jarrad Thessman, ASN Queenstown and Auckland when they Events and Rachel Clifford, Real Journeys are full.’ some conferences. Rushbrook says the company is getting ‘The Devon New Plymouth and Rutherford return business, but to a different region. Nelson in particular are scooping the pool 31st May - 1st June 2017, ASB Showgrounds, Auckland ‘The complementary destinations of for larger events right now,’ confirms Shelley Nelson and New Plymouth meet the North Eastwood, director of sales, conference Island – South Island requirements for and incentives for Heritage Hotels.

[46] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 Aime Review] Christchurch books business early

Christchurch & Canterbury Convention Bureau booked ‘a big piece of incentive business’ with its first appointment at AIME, bureau manager Caroline Blanchfield says.

‘We are new destination in every form. From a business events perspective, Christchurch is The banks of the Avon well and truly on the map. River, Christchurch ‘We are using the city centre as a conference venue, and clients are excited about this. The Biology Symposium in 2021. We’ve been ‘Pre-earthquake, Christchurch held 42% whole city is pulling together as a convention talking with healthcare professionals who of all conferences coming in from Australia bureau – the bureau is strong. Our membership want to bring their conference here. and 24% from New Zealand. We have a track is back up to pre-earthquake numbers.’ ‘Although there has been real interest from record.’ Waving the flag for the Christchurch a couple of good bids at AIME, what we are In terms of the proposition between Convention Centre, due to open in 2020, doing is re-introducing Christchurch back into Auckland and Christchurch, McIntyre believes was general manager Rob McIntyre. ‘There the international marketplace. There’s a lot of both cities can benefit from association is pent up demand for Christchurch,’ he says. education that needs to be done. Christchurch conference rotations. ‘We already have two conferences booked – is in huge positive rebuild phase and there is ‘We also think that we will pick up satellite the International Association of Bridge and still more infrastructure to be put in place over conference from the bigger New Zealand Structural Engineering in 2020 and the SCAR the next three years. International Convention Centre.’

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meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [47] [ West Coast

Getting there is half the fun… the Tranz Alpine surrounded by snowy peaks at Springfield

By Kathy Ombler

As Jim Little, Tourism West Coast chief executive says, it’s the untamed wilderness Keeping and ‘real Coaster things like a dinner at the it real Kumara Hall with the Kokatahi Band’ that delegates enjoy. ‘The best months for us are April to Take a big old brewery, a brand new cycle trail, a hoe September, when tourism on the Coast is down in an old miner’s hall with the Coaster’s Kokatahi quieter and the weather more settled. We can host events of up to 500,’ he adds. Band (bush ballads and Irish, playing since 1910), and Little says there are plenty of team an old wild coastline. Add big mountains, rainforests, building options along the coast, while one of the world’s most scenic rail trips and that activities such as the cycle trail, off road rides in the rainforest and new ‘floating friendly laid back West Coast vibe and you have the golf’ fun at Ross, are great offsite activities makings of a memorable conference event, wherever for groups. ‘We can also cater well for small, high end on the West Coast you might chose to meet. incentive business, in particular at Franz Josef,’ he adds. The only truly luxury property in the region is the five star, 100 room Te Waonui Forest Retreat, set on the bush edge in Franz Josef township and specialising in personalised executive retreat and incentive business. The 100-room hotel has meeting capacity for 50 guests. General manager, Richard Bungeroth, says much of Te Waonui’s success as an incentive destination can be attributed to how the hotel team works closely with other Franz Josef operators. ‘Heli-hiking and glacier flights are guest favourites, while others engage in activities such as mountain biking, hiking, rafting, kayaking, lake cruises, natural hot pools and rainforest walks. They also enjoy treatments in our Te Waonui Forest Retreat’s Amaia Spa,’ he says. Having both fine weather and rain day On yer bike plans when operating in the glacier country

[48] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 Host your next conference on the beautiful West Coast

With five great locations, where else would you want to be! Whether you are searching for a place to facilitate business or want to offer a memorable incentive reward to staff and clients, Scenic Hotel Group can offer your group the versatility of 5 hotels from Franz Josef to Haast, in this magnificent region. Ranging from 3 star comfort at Heartland Hotels, outstanding 4 star Scenic Hotels, Suites and Resorts to 5 star luxury at Te Waonui Forest Retreat, we will ensure complete comfort and real kiwi hospitality.

The West Coast of the South Island, is one of New Zealand’s most enticing and dramatic regions. Fun seekers will delight in the area’s unique range of offerings from pampered luxury to adrenalin packed adventure activities. Our experienced team can create an itinerary that caters to your individual needs and goals.

For bookings and enquiries call 09 377 5767 or visit us online at scenichotelgroup.co.nz [ West Coast

Te Waonui Forest Retreat... set on appointed to handle the increasing number the bush edge in Franz Josef of bookings and work alongside clients, says Forrest. ‘With the recent addition of full mobile reception and extension of our complimentary wifi, the West Coast Events Centre now has all the offerings of a city venue set in a truly, West Coast venue.’ Forrest says another West Coast innovation is the ‘mobile conference’, incorporating several of the character-filled, heritage venues. She says recent national conferences have met in multiple venues around the Grey region, encompassing Shantytown, Greymouth and historic Kumara, while field trips, entertainment and partner programmes have explored the wider region. A key Greymouth venue is Monteith’s, the family brewery founded on the Coast in is essential and the Te Waonui team are he adds. 1868. The brewery today has retained all its fully versed in rolling with Mother Nature’s (Note that the TranzAlpine service is classic, heritage ambience, at the same time punches to keep their groups entertained at scheduled to reopen in April, after fire upgrading and tweaking to meet conference all times, he adds. damaged bridges on the line in February.) group requirements, says Nick Rogers, MBC Bungeroth says groups need to factor in a Experience commercial manager. four day return travel period from gateway Events Centre ‘Our experiences range from functions to port Christchurch to Franz Josef. ‘The brewery tours with groups to private tastings travel is all part of the experience. Whilst On the coast, a leading conference venue with the Monteith’s brewer. Everyone is given accessibility can be an initial challenge that comes with a world of interactive history a tasting tray and for our premium tours and visitors will not be disappointed in taking is the West Coast Events Centre (WCEC), at all conference delegates we give everyone a “leap of faith” to venture a little off the Shantytown Heritage Park. A major rebrand a personalised Monteith’s bottle. Most guys beaten track for an unbeatable experience.’ last year, launching the WCEC, has been have always wanted their names on a beer Jim Little says an inspiring option for successful in raising profile in the conference label! On the tour we also match the beers groups coming to the Coast is to actually and event market, drawing attention to with foods from our Brewery Kitchen. This start their event in Christchurch. ‘It’s easy Shantytown’s more than 45 years’ experience year our menu has been redesigned to to bring your delegates to Christchurch, in hosting events, says chief executive, showcase classic local food, for example then start your conference on board the Andrea Forrest. West Coast whitebait, Canterbury lamb, TranzAlpine. You can call it “Meeting on The WCEC has two main event spaces; Blackball salami and Tasman Sea fish, such the Move” - everyone is together as they Miner’s Hall (up to 250 banquet) and the as Hapuka sliders or Monteith’s beer battered pass through that stunning scenery across Welshman’s Conference Centre (up to 250 turbot with fries,’ he adds. the Southern Alps.’ theatre) along with intriguing, character- ‘Our conferencing business is up Derek Batchelor-Cook, KiwiRail filled breakout spaces such as the 1886 considerably with groups, including national domestic trade manager, confirms that Interdenominational Church, authentic and international tours, now visiting the groups can hire a carriage on a scheduled Masonic Lodge and a Victorian-style brewery daily. Overall our visitation is up TranzAlpine service or, with advance classroom. Services include onsite catering, 50% in the last year.’ notice, the entire train. ‘Conference fully serviced bar, and huge car park. Rogers says conference sizes at the organisers thus have the ability to start If delegates need a break from the serious brewery can range from 12 to 80, and private their event while travelling, instead of stuff, there is the Shantytown experience to functions from 30 to 200. waiting for delegates to drive or coach explore; goldmining, steam train rides and, Lake Brunner Resort, overlooking world to the venue. A carriage can be themed old-time photo opportunities, for example. class trout fishery Moana Kotuku/Lake and bespoke catering can be organised,’ A dedicated events manager has been Brunner, is just 30 minutes from Greymouth.

Lake Brunner Lodge

[50] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 West Coast]

Monteith’s Brewery is a Jim Little… West Coast is venue in its own right an untamed wilderness

The hotel has recently completed a major and gives groups a chance to meet the since re-opening in 2012. Co-owner, Kerrie refurbishment which ‘takes it back to its former, locals.’ Fitzgibbon, says up to 62 guests can be now classic pioneering style’, says general manager As well, the Lake Brunner village accommodated in a mix of hotel rooms, Phillip Barnett. community hall can host up to 100 guests. self-contained, purpose-built ‘Miners ‘The original hotel stands on the rise where Lake cruises and guided fishing adventures Cottages’, up market apartments in the old the glacier came to a halt, looking out over are available and several stunning forest bank, and other village cottages. the lake and mountains. Inside, the hotel walks leave from the village, says Barnett. ‘We host lots of functions; it’s all about has a real West Coast lodge style about it – ‘For team building and offsite adventures chilling out, with live, old style music in with its old cane fishing rods, trophy heads we have underwater caving, ziplining, keeping with the character here. Our Gazebo and historic photos. A meeting room caters rafting, off road bikes and mountain biking can host up to 50 for a function, and if it’s a for groups of up to thirty, while a private all within 30 minutes’ drive,’ he adds. sit down meeting we can accommodate up dining area seats up to 40. ‘Alternatively the In historic mining town Kumara, the to 30 in our Hector’s Room.’ main Kingfisher Bar and Restaurant, which beautifully restored Theatre Royal Hotel Hosting meals for cycle trail groups opens out to a large balcony and undercover has been drawing a mix of clientele; small has become an ideal off-site or partner garden bar, caters for double that number conference groups, cyclists and locals, programme activity, she adds.

TranzAlpine rail journey Christchurch to the West Coast and meet on the way. On the Coast there are many meeting venues, team building activities and function venues with a difference! Contact West Coast Tourism 03 768 6675 and visit www.westcoast.co.nz

meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [51] [ Waikato Powerful possibilities

Eight successful bids through Tourism New Zealand’s Core Education Conference in Conference Assistance Programme (CAP) in the past full swing at Claudelands year, steady success in the corporate meetings sector and a number of new and refurbished venues and university, with the larger ones at Claudelands.’ accommodation providers are all helping to put a Graham says the host committee for the 2018 event presented the idea of holding the spring in the step of Waikato – Hamilton operators. conference outside of the USA and Canada for the first time and it is expected to attract about Amanda Graham, manager Hamilton & at the University of Waikato in June 2018. 800 attendees. The University of Waikato has Waikato Business Events says the latest ‘We have been working hard to find bid a renowned Maori and Indigenous Studies winning bid through CAP is the NAISA champions at the University of Waikato and School representing both innovation and (Native American and Indigenous Studies that is where a lot of our success is coming tradition in regards to teaching on ethnicity Association) Conference, which will be held from. Many of the events are being held in the and indigenous identity and culture. Graham says the region is also repositioning itself in the market through the tagline Powerful Possibilities and also using the message Big City Solutions, Small City Heart. ‘As a second tier destination, New Zealand’s fastest growing city and the closest city to Auckland – Auckland International Airport is only an hour and a half easy drive from Hamilton CBD – we are a perfect choice for organisers wanting an exceptional delegate experience at a slower pace.’ New faces

Claudelands Conference and Exhibition Centre, under the H3 banner, is also taking a fresh approach with a new team marketing the venue. Denise McRae, Claudelands Conference and Exhibition Centre; Daniel Dense McRae has taken the role of director, McGregor, Good George; Maya Storey and Shayne Forrest, both Hobbiton business development and marketing, Movie Set; enjoy some conviviality at the Good George Brewery while Melissa Williams is the new business

[52] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017

[ waikato

400 taps as well. But the best place to trying a tasting glass (or a pint) of the various beers and ciders is in Hamilton, where the Good George Brewery began and where it has developed its tours into a Hamilton attraction for leisure visitors and conference groups alike. Daniel McGregor, brew enjoyment coordinator at the brewery, says groups can hold a function around the bar or in the adjacent courtyard and up to 30 participants at a time can head off for the guided tour. The brewery also has a couple of great meeting rooms – The Hunting Lodge (which is also the new tasting room) – and another area just off the brewery’s admin area. With the hobbits Sam Immers, The Verandah; Amanda Graham, Hamilton & Waikato Business Events Hobbiton Movie Set has made its presence felt not only with independent travellers development and sales manager there. than the main centres at the moment.’ and tour groups, but also in the realm of ‘This means we’ve got some new eyes on She says a number of large conferences are conference functions. the business,’ says McRae, ‘and we look at it coming to Claudelands, as well as the WINTEC Shayne Forrest, marketing manager, says as having to really work for the region. People Graduation Ceremony for over 2000 students. delegates can be welcomed to the set by a need to want to come to Hamilton if they are fiddle and/or flute player dressed in costume, going to hold an event at Claudelands.’ Good George have a welcome drink and break out into She says for many corporates and smaller groups for the tour. They end up at associations Hamilton is still a new option. Craft brewery Good George now has a the Green Dragon pub or in a marquee where ‘This is a good time to come to the region presence in 700 retail outlets around New the night continues. because we are more competitively priced Zealand and is on anything between 150 and ‘They can have the express tour, which

CREATING CONNECTIONS

Ideally located in Hamilton’s CBD. Six meeting room options 300 on-site car parks Broad range of entertainment options Seven restaurants and bars

07 834 4989 I [email protected] www.skycityhamilton.co.nz

[54] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 functions ad 2017.indd 6 6/03/17 10:52 am Waikato] lasts about 45 minutes, or they can have the detailed tour that obviously takes a bit longer.’ He says that while the Lord of the Rings and SKYCITY Hamilton’s new Hobbit books and films are extremely popular, the Matamata location has taken on a life of features act as drawcard its own. ‘We have a lot of people who haven’t actually read the books or seen the movies but who want to see how a piece of rural New for conference market Zealand was turned into a movie set.’ Bowl and Social Forrest says smaller corporate groups have the option of purchasing a table for one of the venue’s popular banquet tours (they sell out fast though). Distinction Hotel

What has been the Distinction Hotel in Te Rapa since February 2016 (it was formerly the Kingsgate) is taking on a new lease of life and added more quality accommodation and meeting options to the region. Fifty five of the 147 accommodation SKYCITY Hamilton’s recent investment in its rooms have now been refurbished and by food and beverage hub and new Bowl and the end of the year 125 of them will have Social entertainment facilities is paying off the new look. General manager Carla Denmead points for the company’s convention centre. out that the refurbished rooms have been completely stripped back. ‘Everything is The combination of conference, dining to offer. We would highly recommend it new, even the walls.’ and entertainment is proving to be a and would go back there in a heartbeat,” She says the Distinction is the largest popular choice for small to mid-size groups. says Campbell Arnotts office manager hotel based conference option in the city SKYCITY Hamilton general manager Amanada Gibens. and can cater for 600 at an event. Michelle Baillie says significant investment SKYCITY Hamilton is home to a casino, Although it is known as a corporate hotel, in the property over the last two years has eight restaurants and bars, Bowl and it is also attracting the inbound market and delivered value for the conference market. Social - Hamilton’s only 10 pin bowling is regularly used for weddings. ‘Working closely with conference alley, a dedicated conference space and Although Te Rapa does have plenty of organisers, we can develop creative 300 onsite car parks. The SKYCITY dining shopping and dining options, Denmead packages that incorporate experiences precinct offers casual and fine dining says that having the delegates at Distinction outside the conference room, such as team options including Coffee Post cafe, The means they are unlikely to wander away building at Bowl and Social, a classy pre- Local Taphouse, Eat Burger, Spanish tapas into Hamilton central. That way the group function event at Marble Room, a casino restaurant La Parrilla, and the sophisticated will stay together and interact during learn-to-play experience with funny money, Marble Room. the event. or a themed gala dinner in our function centre. And with a range of amazing food By the Lake outlets onsite, lunch and dinner don’t have to be from a conference buffet,’ says Baillie. The Verandah, by Hamilton Lake, is a As well as the dedicated conference facility Are you venue in its own right, with a conference for up to 600 guests, SKYCITY Hamilton room capable of holding 300 and a number offers varied dining and entertainment of other indoor and outdoor areas available options in the SKYCITY dining precinct and ready for for functions (fireworks on the lake anyone?). the recently refurbished Bowl and Social However the arrival of catering coordinator tenpin bowling facility. The conferencing, your next Sam Immers has also allowed the business to exhibition and banqueting space can be branch into outcatering. tailored for any sized group and boasts event? As well as being a preferred supplier to river views and an extensive outdoor area. Hamilton’s Ventura Inn, the outcatering arm In August 2016, food company Campbell Find out how we can help: has already secured relationships with some Arnotts held its two day annual conference www.meetings.co.nz of the larger (and smaller) firms around the at SKYCITY Hamilton Convention Centre. Hamilton district. ‘Everything was easily accessible and ‘The corporate side of the catering business flowed well. We made great use of pretty has food that is easily eaten, practical and much all of the facilities that were available 31st May - 1st June 2017, is not going to make a mess. Of course it’s to us, including the conference areas, ASB Showgrounds, Auckland also nutritionally balanced, tasty and well restaurants and bars, and bowling and were presented,’ says Immers. really impressed with everything they had

meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [55] [ waikato

it from New Zealand.’ La Valla Estate Van Staden says La Valla ‘doesn’t do ordinary conferences’ and even if the client When Bernie Jackson and her requests a ‘meat and veg’ type event they co-owners of La Valla Estate will get something a bit different. But where bought the property a few years the venue really comes into its own is when ago they had no pre-conceived imagination can run free. Jackson says a recent Women in Aviation ideas of what to do with it. 50th anniversary dinner saw the venue come The site was derelict at the time but had David van Staden and up with an aircraft setting, with the La Valla previously been everything from a teachers’ Bernie Jackson of La Valla staff dressed as air crew and serving off training college for Catholics, through groups in for weddings and corporate events. trolleys. Old movies were showing and an to a retirement village and a ‘naughty General manager and executive chef (he evacuation card was placed on the tables boys’ school. prefers the title cook) David van Staden has alongside menus. ‘The place has a lot of history and it’s all established a vegetable and herb garden La Valla has a number of theatre and about memories. So we decided to open it to onsite and says he is working as much as meeting spaces, a gym and climbing wall and the public and the only viable way to do that possible towards a farm to fork solution. plenty of outdoor areas. was as a function centre,’ she says. ‘If we can’t grow it ourselves we will get ‘On a nice day it’s not unusual to see Now the venue has nine accommodation it from the village (Tuakau), if we can’t find people sitting outside with a white board rooms and works closely with nearby it there we will source it from the region, and bare feet, and that’s the way we like it,’ providers (notably Tuakau Hotel) when it has and if we can’t do that at least we will get says Jackson.

Any organisers thinking ‘bunks and shared bathrooms’ when they hear the words campus College accommodation, a site inspection of the Waikato Tainui will change their views. setting with These are 55 hotel standard, mainly single occupancy (double bed) and ensuite rooms, hotel room initially designed for long stay writers and other academics. Every 15 rooms have a shared lounge, kitchen and dining area so standards events can be self catered or catering can Mereaina Herangi Waikato Tainui College be arranged through the college with its on- site chefs. she says. is already having Events manager Mereaina Herangi Herangi says conferences of about 50 success with local day points out that the college is easy to reach people are the ‘sweet spot’ for the venue, but off the main highway between Auckland groups of 120 can be catered for in terms of meetings and residential and Hamilton (in Hopuhopu) but just far functions and day meetings. conferences but is now enough off to have delegates in a quiet self- The entrance – reception area is ideal for spreading the word contained area. dinners and/or cocktail parties, while there ‘The college is really conducive to retreats are also dining and bar areas that can be used beyond the region. and that has been our bread and butter,’ privately as well as outdoor courtyards.

[56] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 Waikato]

500 in the infield of the velodrome, but Avantidrome is also an ideal place to Home of Champions hold meetings and workshops in one of the Avanti Lounges,’ says Andrea Woodford, marketing and communications coordinator. In partnership with the onsite Bikery Café, the team at Avantidrome can also take care of groups’ catering needs. Cambridge is in the heart of Waipa district, known as the Home of Champions and there is some new quality accommodation being developed within easy walking distance of the town for incentive groups wanting to take advantage of the Avantidrome and other facilities. Kelly Rd Cambridge Lodge will open in April 2017, adding 22 rooms to the town’s inventory. Manager Merryn Lala says the lodge Avantidrome – meeting is committed to delivering ‘genuine spaces and adrenalin pumping ‘Have a Go’ options excellence’ to fit with the region’s theme Conference groups utilising and reputation. the Avantidrome in But the big point of difference is the ‘Kelly Rd will celebrate the Waipa’s high opportunity to ‘Have a Go’ – a programme performance culture, particularly in sports’ Cambridge will find rooms which gets people onto the velodrome, big three – equestrian, cycling and rowing, with great views over the complete with helmet, bike and coach. as well as many others.’ track (and quite possibly ‘It is a great option for people no Kelly Rd’s accommodation will a famous Olympian or two matter how experienced or inexperienced consist of one and two bedroom they are.’ suites and studio apartments, set in a will be training at the time). ‘We can host a conference dinner for sheltered courtyard. fresh Approach

For the very first time you’ll find three of H3’s top business event offerings in the one spot at Convene 2017. Discover the perfect space for your next event at Hamilton’s award-winning Claudelands Conference & Exhibition Centre or impressive FMG Stadium Waikato, and chat to hospitality experts Spoilt For Choice about how to really ‘wow’ your guests with their exclusive VIP event packages. Come see us at stands 66-68 at Convene 2017, or contact us on 07 958 5950 or [email protected] for more information. h3group.co.nz

meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [57] [ Cinz Column Get the most out of exhibiting – send in your hunters

It is a topic that is taking some significant who will be present and what information real estate in industry publications both here they need to have on hand to answer the and in Australia. Many learned industry questions, and many setting up their stand professionals speak of the value of a one- on the morning the exhibition opens. to-one meeting and the ability to begin a Add to this the behaviour on the exhibition relationship that goes beyond an email or floor. The lack of being present takes many a Skype session. Reconnecting at various forms: simply not being there is one, events often cements these relationship and followed by long, engaging conversations from relationships come the opportunities. with fellow exhibitors, and of course the I agree, we can’t underestimate the value of habit of answering emails, head down on the face-to-face meetings. laptop or phone instead of eyes up. Include I have been an exhibitor at many events leaving expensive collateral on the stand at and always made sure I worked the room at the end of the show and poor follow up to the networking function, made my presence potential customers and the money spent on By Sue Sullivan known and left with at least one new contact attending an exhibition is wasted. who may, just may, bring some business. Chief executive Over time the business I worked for reaped Conventions & Incentives the rewards of our tradeshow attendance. New Zealand (CINZ) That is not to say that I did not frequent the bars or the parties, I did with my colleagues Kia ora. on many occasions. But I did make sure the next day, I was on the stand well before the This time of the year show opened, ready to go. sees my focus turn to We know attending exhibitions comes at a real cost. It is not a cheap exercise to take CINZ MEETINGS 2017. a stand, fit it out to represent the business, Having just returned and have a staff member or two attend, in some cases coming from out of town. from AIME in Melbourne This is expensive and you as the exhibitor it seems timely to talk want value for money. A good exhibition organiser will do their utmost to ensure that about exhibitions and the exhibitor gets a return from the numerous maximising the value opportunities for networking and business discussions and, where appropriate, media Flashback to MEETINGS 2016 of exhibiting. are present to engage and share the stories widely. This is something that we at CINZ My point is, because attending exhibitions take seriously, we want our exhibitors at is expensive, make sure the right people MEETINGS to see that return on investment are representing you, that they are well and be there ready to exhibit with us the prepared and know who the targets are, that Are you following year. the deadlines are met and they have stories So to the exhibitors and their approach prepared well in advance to be told. Most to the exhibition. It seems rather obvious to importantly be present, look sharp, work the ready for many of us that the key aspects of a good room, keep the eyes up, and engage. exhibitor include the preparation, being We often talk about hunters and farmers. your next present both physically and mentally during An exhibition is a place for the hunter – the exhibition, completing the post event someone who has fire in their belly, wants event? report and, of course, the follow up. Cover to win and make a difference, loves forming these aspects well and in time you should relationships, is happy to stand out from the see a result. It might not be immediate, but crowd, knows what the competition is up to Find out how we can help: www.meetings.co.nz it will come. and can talk about the real uniqueness of It sounds rather obvious, one would think, what they are selling. however it is not. I continue to be astounded We can’t all be hunters, we need farmers at the lack of preparation by exhibitors. too. But as we come up to exhibition season The number of appointment requests not - send out the hunters! 31st May - 1st June 2017, ASB Showgrounds, Auckland completed by the due dates, not providing clear concise information that the media will Nga mihi access, not understanding the type of buyer Sue Sullivan

[58] meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 speaker’s corner] Speaker’s corner A new column highlighting a popular entertainer / speaker available to conference organisers now.

This issue: Te Radar – MC, Satirist, Speaker, Writer, TV Personality

How did you start in the up afterwards and say things such as they’d entertainment industry? always thought history was boring, or that I couldn’t hold a tune at Primary School, they would now read more, or visit their (still can’t to be honest) so for the school local museum is great. production of Treasure Island I wasn’t I also love awards nights, and the allowed in the choir. This was a bit of a opportunity to help people to celebrate shock because literally everyone else was. excellence. I always get a little emotionally They decided I should be the narrator, which involved because you know that no matter turned out to be fantastic as the role was how big or small the award, people have essentially the star of the show. It was just usually done so much to deserve it. reading allowed but I guess I happened to be very good at it. Ironically, it’s exactly What’s one thing you’re not what I do now a lot of the time, for awards negotiable on? nights, and other events. When people ask Asking what I might at first think is a what I do I say I read aloud for a living. stupid question. Or an obvious one. I’ve There’s a little more to it than that, but it’s discovered over the years that what seems not far from the truth. to be the question that surely someone had thought of and dealt with often hasn’t What parts of your job do you find been. Better to ask than find out later that most rewarding? something goes wrong at someone’s event I find performing my history shows because a simple thing slipped past. ‘Eating the Dog’ (about New Zealand history) or ‘Antarcticana’ (about the history What did you want to be when you of Antarctic exploration) in little halls were a kid? around New Zealand hugely rewarding. It’s I wanted to be a war correspondent and a chance to regale people with hilarious go to Afghanistan. This was the 1980s and tales. Not only do they get to laugh, they I’d always been a fan of journalists who learn something at the same time. I love travelled to places like that and portrayed sharing the stories, and to have people come the human side of tragedies, or scandals and cover-ups, and whose work changed the course of events by revealing truths that others may not have wanted exposed. Are you What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you? I decided to become a comedy war ready for correspondent. I reckoned that I’d most likely be totally inept at being an actual your next one, and I’d also realised early in my career that the work I loved the most used humour event? to entertain and entice people into reading or watching stories about things they may not have otherwise read or watched. So I Find out how we can help: www.meetings.co.nz used the humour of my inability to be a real journalist to tell stories about East Timor and the Arab Israeli conflict.

What kind of things make you laugh? 31st May - 1st June 2017, ASB Showgrounds, Auckland Generally inappropriate things. My own ineptitude is a great source of amusement. Pomposity is hilarious.

meetingnewz [marapr] 2017 [59] LET’S MEET NEW ZEALAND IIIIIII II III IIIIIIIII 31st May - 1st June 2017, ASB Showgrounds, Auckland II I II II I II I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

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APPLY ONLINE NOW ... www.meetings.co.nz/hostedbuyerprogramme Limited places available. Applications close on 3 April 2017.