MAY/JUNE 2018
The industry showed off its silly side at the Meeting Newz stand at Convene North 2018, which took place at Vodafone Events Centre in April. Head to page 22 to read our Convene coverage and page 6 to check out some more silly photos from the Meeting Newz photo booth. Back row: Amanda Graham, Business Events Waikato; Doug Cockroft, NZ It’s about the big picture Oracle Users Group and Sharon Leonhardt, Traveltraits Working together as a region is vital for success, according Front Row: Jo Perry and Barbara to Amanda Graham, business events manager Hamilton Dunne, Ballance Agri-Nutrients with Jody McGinity, Hamilton & Waikato & Waikato Tourism, who says putting the region first will Business Events ensure the best possible experience for delegates.
‘The Convention Bureau works with training (delivered by Tourism Marketing right venue with the right suppliers for that operators to encourage working together as a Solutions), business events seminars with particular event. region. We encourage our operators to look at industry guest speakers, and our annual ‘The bureau works for our partners, but the big picture, be passionate about, and talk Business Events Showcase, which this year we also work with the buyers to make sure about the region before their own products,’ will be held on 23 August. that they are matched with the best suppliers she says. Graham says at a high level, the bureau to fit their objectives, budget and delegate ‘We do this by facilitating four networking wants to bring buyers into New Zealand, demographic,’ she explains. and update events a year, business events then into the Waikato, and then into the ...continued on page 2
THE CONFERENCE, INCENTIVE & EXHIBITION MAGAZINE www.meetingnewz.co.nz [ EDITORIAL / NEWS
Contents Note from the editor...
FEATURES Pacific Islands 12 Pride of place Waikato 26 Southland 32 The best part of being an editor is being or uncomfortable situation. This upset me able to talk about real issues, real people because I was one of those people. Otago 36 and real problems that face the world, It bothers me that people say horrible and discuss how those real things affect things that are no longer accepted in our AND THE REST our industry. society and people keep silent out of fear. News 4 Whether it’s racism (more on this on page That calling someone out for being out of 42), sexism (see our January issue), animal line and offensive to an entire group of Social Scene 6 and 24-25 rights (check out our July 2017 issue) people is somehow worse than the repugnant Convene North wrap 22 or whatever, every single person in this thing that was actually said. People on the Move 31 industry has a responsibility to be better. This happens on a bigger scale often. Big The conference and events industry was news last month was Australian rugby star summed up to me in my first ever interview Israel Folau’s vile comments on social media INDUSTRY COMMENT with a PCO. ‘We are professional party about gay people going to hell unless they Editor’s Note 2 planners. Big parties, mind you.’ When you repent their sins, and his New Zealand wife, Editorial: Racist NZ and our attend a party, you have no control over netball great Maria Folau, supporting his industry’s responsibility 42 the types of people you may meet and by stance on Instagram. the end of the night you hopefully would It took awhile for public figures to come Stu’d Up 45 have met people different from your usual out publicly and condemn them. I applaud Letter from Sue Sullivan, CINZ 51 echo chamber, learned a few things and those who have (here’s looking at you Matty left with a slightly more open mind. The McLean, you’re amazing), and I’m inspired by same goes when you are planning an event. them. But why have others not spoken up? Every event involves partnerships with a Why are we all so afraid of calling people huge variety of operators - accommodation out for the gross, antiquated, uneducated, meeting newz is registered as a magazine providers, entertainment, AV, catering... the harmful things that they say? and is published by ProMag Publishing Ltd. Level 1, 20A Morgan St, Newmarket, list is long. And with these partnerships I wasn’t the only person who looked at PO Box 60154, Titirangi, Auckland. come people from all walks of life, with all my feet when I heard these slurs on this Internet: www.meetingnewz.co.nz different backgrounds and beliefs. famil. There were Phone: 09 307 3782. Fax: 09 307 3784. It upset me on a recent famil when I exchanged glances, Group Editor: Shannon Williams heard a PCO call someone gay and a ‘fag’ there was silence. email: [email protected] as a joke, as a way to make fun of them, Next time though, Journalist: Sam Worthington then crying PC police. This wasn’t the only there won’t be [email protected] Publisher: Stu Freeman thing that upset me. though. It upset me silence from me. email: [email protected] that people laughed. It also upset me that Circulation & Advertising Production: those who didn’t find it funny didn’t say Patrea Robson: [email protected] anything, instead looked away or looked at Shannon Williams Administration Manager: Marg Patten their feet, careful not to create an awkward Group Editor email: [email protected] Advertising Manager: Heather Lowrie Phone: 021 599 929 continued from page 1... It’s about the big picture email: [email protected] Design & Production: Gary Covich Graham says it is important operators big picture. It is very helpful to chat to people email: [email protected] learn about each other’s products, which in in a similar position, realise that everybody Printing: Image Centre turn will strengthen the regional proposition has similar challenges, and benefit from the Distribution: Western Mailing and facilitate cross-referral. experience of others,’ she explains. ISSN: 1172-5893 ‘We are all working together to offer the ‘Operators need to learn about what is buyer the best possible experience in the going on in the region for the purposes of Waikato. My ideal is that buyers receive the assisting and adding value for the time-poor same high quality service from all Waikato buyer and facilitating cross-referral. venues and suppliers, that we are seen as a ‘Buyers can tell when a region and friendly, professional place to do business, operators are working together. Yes, we have where the buyer and delegate experience is competition, but generally speaking we are our first priority.’ committed as a region to finding the best Graham says networking is also solution for the client and delivering great important, because of the opportunities it delegate experiences.’ creates operators. Head to page 26 to check out more wise ‘It is easy for operators to become focused words from Amanda Graham and some news on their own products and lose site of the from the region in our Waikato feature.
[2] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 INTIMATE MEETINGS SPECIAL SMALL $ 199INCL. GST Accommodation rate SPACES when you book a meeting of 10 or more FOR BIG IDEAS WITH GRAND MILLENNIUM AUCKLAND
At MEETINGS 2018 Day Buyers Lunches a team of Millennium Executive Regardless of the size of your meeting, we will chefs from our hotels around New Zealand are re-creating one of the menus accommodate you and your delegates. from Chef Greg Singian - the Executive Chef at Grand Millennium Auckland. With 14 conference rooms, including intimate boardrooms Meet the regions and savour the culture with Manaakitanga - warmth, catering to small groups, make Grand Millennium Auckland your first choice for your next event. generosity, respect, and kindness. DATES AVAILABLE: Visit www.meetingsnz.co.nz to view all Millennium Hotels and Resorts latest specials, including our great rates for intimate meetings. Friday 1st June – Friday 8th June 2018 Monday 11 June – Sunday 17th June 2018 Monday 2nd July – Sunday 8th July 2018 www.meetingsnz.co.nz Wednesday 22nd August – Friday 31st August 2018 New Zealand 0800 4 633 846 Saturday 1st September – Wednesday 5th September 2018 T +64 9 366 5633 Australia +61 4 2117 3325 Terms and Conditions: New Business Only. Subject to Availability at the time of booking. E [email protected] Minimum Catering Numbers of 10 guests or more. [ NEWS
Aviation Display Hall
Auckland’s Museum of Transport and Technology is urging event organisers Never too early to start thinking about their end of year function to plan ahead plans, even though the holiday season might be than the Aviation Display Hall, home of New ‘This dynamic open space is the new home a while off yet. Zealand’s aviation stories and one of the of The Mind Lab by Unitec, pioneers of digital world’s most unique aircraft collections.’ and collaborative learning. It features reliable, ‘Securing the perfect venue is arguably The display hall, which is equipped to host high-speed internet and a contemporary the most important aspect of organising a up to 500 guests for cocktails or 350 banquet industrial design incorporating spectacular Christmas function,’ says MOTAT event sales style, has hosted a range of events, award graffiti murals.’ executive, Raewyn Dooley. ‘All the best ones ceremonies and gala dinners. ‘Just imagine Suitable for product launches, cocktail can book up quickly.’ welcoming your guests with a glass of bubbles parties and corporate dinners, the Innovation Dooley says irrespective of function size, under the wings of the Avro Lancaster Bomber Hub caters for up to 200 guests in cocktail MOTAT has a venue to suit, from its Aviation before ushering them down the runway, style or 100 for a sit-down dinner. Display Hall to the colonial Cropper House, or complete with custom lighting, to dine Alternatively, for a venue with a colonial the contemporary Innovation Hub. beneath the hulk of the Sunderland Flying history, Cropper House and its recently ‘If you want to avoid yet another staid Boat. Complete the evening with music and constructed all-weather terraced area is an corporate affair and are on the hunt for dancing against the backdrop of the museum’s option for groups of between 40 and 120 something distinctive, then look no further heritage aircraft collection.’ people. Guests can enjoy picturesque views than us,’ she says. For a more intimate, modern venue, over Western Springs Lake from the upper ‘For larger events, you would be hard Dooley says event organisers should consider floor of the building and there is a lawn pressed to find a more impressive venue MOTAT’s newly refurbished Innovation Hub. area downstairs. C&I buyers eXplore Central North Island Meeting planners were among a broader mix of more than 200 buyers who attended this year’s eXplore trade show at Auckland’s Eden Park in April. Thirty five first-time exhibitors and over 50 new products were part of the 105-strong contingent from Hamilton, Bay of Plenty, Hawke’s Bay, Coromandel, Ruapehu, Taupo Lee Watkins catches Tongariro Lodge’s GM, Guido Paseri with a and Rotorua. fishing net at eXplore Tongariro Lodge’s conference and events sales manager, Lee Watkins says business Good news for corporates is the new ‘Instead of a 45-minute drive from Taupo, events have doubled over the last year for Motuoapa Marina that has opened up the guests can disembark vessels at Motuoapa, the 50-room property – and Auckland makes southern part of Lake Taupo to larger vessels which is only a 10-minute drive from up 50% of this sector. such as the big Chris Jolly boats. the lodge.’
[4] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 This is Melanie. She likes that Heritage has a range of unique venues throughout New Zealand.
Let us take care of all the details of your next business event so that you can focus on the meeting and greeting.
Meet with Shelley and the team at Phone MEETINGS 2018, 30 - 31 May at +64 9 979 7525 the ASB Showgrounds, Auckland, Email: and chat through all the ways we [email protected] can help you create an effortless Visit: and memorable business event in heritagehotels.co.nz/events/conferences one of our 15 iconic destinations nationwide. HHM 202 05/18 HHM 202 [ NEWS So silly
We had our own bit of fun at our Meeting Newz stand at this year’s Convene North expo. From silly hats to giant sunglasses, a whole bunch of you came to see us to show off your silly side.
Back row: Maxson Nunes, Millenium Hotel & Resorts Manuels Taupo; Alanna Finnie, Suncourt Hotel & Conference Centre; Garth Oakden, Tongariro River Rafting; Ashleigh Crighton, Millenium Hotel & Resorts Manuels Taupo; Karen Rainbow, Destination Great Lake Taupo and John McNaughton, Wairakei Resort & Chateau Tongariro Hotel Middle: Simon Cox, Suncourt Hotel & Conference Centre; Gillian Taplin, Great Lake Centre; Maggie Sando, Destination Great Lake Taupo; Di Christie, Hilton Lake Taupo; Lee Watkins, Tongariro Lodge Anna Ziegler and Front row: Simon Jolly, Chris Jolly Outdoors and Cairo Barlow, Wairakei Resort Soraya Hebert, 212f & Chateau Tongariro Hotel
Claire Webber, Event Solutions
Ashennafee Rickus and Eilish Third and Kalena Gabrielle Turner, Restaurant Finlayson, Momento Association of New Zealand Travel Group
Kerry-Lee Cunningham, Crowne Plaza Auckland; Holly Mathieson, IHG New Zealand and Raeesa Essa, Holiday Inn Auckland Airport
Erin Herbert, Courtney Turton and Aimee Grant H3
[6] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 Earn up to 70,000 LE CLUB ACCORHOTELS REWARDS POINTS on events held before 31 August 2018*
Discover more at accorconferences.co.nz
CAROLINE PLATINUM MEMBER
DANIEL PLATINUM MEMBER
Conditions apply. [ NEWS Can NZ’s tech sector thrive around the events industry?
New Zealand needs to be leading the way in the events industry when it comes to utilising interactive technology, according to business development manager at cievents Simon Coxhead. Before joining cievents, Coxhead worked as an event manager in the AV industry, and says facilitating all the digital tools and training was a highlight in this role. Simon Coxhead (left) with Mark Ferguson, 212f (centre) and Adam Leslie, Event Travel He says the events industry is utilising Management (right) on a recent famil to digital technology now more than ever. Hamilton Island, Australia ‘With everyone having some platform of social media, I’m seeing an influx interactive technology, creating seamless such as the NZICC and the foundations of the of innovative requirements with digital approaches to event delivery and that we see Christchurch Convention Centre - this will technology,’ he explains. ‘Most clients our own technology sector thrive around our stimulate large growth in New Zealand. now require a solution around interaction travel industry,’ adds Coxhead. ‘This coupled with world wide events over through web design or app technology - this Besides technology and digital innovation, the next few years such as the America’s Cup is something we as event professionals at Coxhead says seeing all the growth happening - I am excited to see an influx of people to cievents embrace. in the industry right now in New Zealand is our shores that will in turn promote further ‘I personally want New Zealand to be at what excites him. events and travel - this will help us prove the forefront in the hospitality industry using ‘Seeing the growth of larger event locations New Zealand is a world-tier destination.’
EXPERIENCE ONE OF AUCKLAND’S MOST UNIQUE VENUES
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[8] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 VENUE SNAPSHOT]
PROFILE
They were among the factors that made Clyde and Farida Cooper fall in love with the district in the early 2000s – Plume blooms ostensibly as a ‘two days a week’ hang out. This would eventually lead onto an investment in the form of a vineyard for conferences and olive estate (Runner Duck Estate), Plume Restaurant and Matakana’s relaxed country village Plume Café. atmosphere, its access to beaches, Now the Coopers are developing Plume Villas, which they point out will enhance the appeal of the region for corporate walking and cycling tracks, restaurants, groups by enabling residential retreats, staff events and parties wineries and cafés and its famous and conferences. Farmers market have long been ‘We haven’t really pushed conferences until now,’ says Clyde, a magnet for holiday makers and ‘but we do get groups fairly regularly who hold two to three day lifestylers from Auckland and beyond. meetings here.’ The leading Matakana restaurant has a conference room, which can take about 70 delegates, plus a smaller meeting area/break out room designated as the wine library for 12 to 14. ‘People have told us that if we had accommodation here they would be far more likely to hold a conference with us.’ That has led to the 12 accommodation villas (five one- bedroom, six two-bedroom and one three-bedroom) development, set to be up and running in July. Built as semi-luxury, highly specified accommodation, the villas include exposed macrocarpa trusses on the ceilings for the one bedrooms, oak overlay floors, an exterior mainly of cedar and spacious tiled bathrooms/ensuites for each room. They have king beds that can be divided for a twin share option. Architect Chris Bassett says the villas are designed to sit in the landscape with a relaxing pallete and an attractive outlook. ‘We didn’t want them to be too urban,’ he adds. The Coopers say the development gives corporate groups a new option just an hour’s drive from the city, but with the peace and Plume at Matakana is adding villas to quiet of the country. Added to that are the benefits of ample free its already strong parking and the accessibility of walking and cycling tracks and offering of restaurant, conference space and other team building options. Plume Villas can be found on their landscaped gardens website www.plumevillas.co.nz
Venue Snapshot: • Located just out of Matakana, 50 minutes drive from central Auckland, six minutes from Warkworth • 12 new luxurious villas, ideal for overnight corporate retreats, conferences etc • Five single bedroom Tui suites, six two-bedroom Kingfisher suites, One three-bedroom Kiwi suite • Rengarenga conference room for up to 80, adjoining Wine Library for breakouts and separate meeting for up to 12 delegates • For larger gatherings, Plume can network with local accommodation providers to host overflow requirements beyond Plume Villas room capacity. • Plume Restaurant seats up to 90 people across its indoor and outdoor areas • The Nest is an outdoor covered dining area and can seat up to 15 people at a time for special occasions
meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 [9] [ NEWS
Auckland City
Auckland attracts AI
Auckland will play host to the International Conference conference brings great opportunities for Auckland and New Zealand’s scientists to on Autonomous Agents and Multiagent Systems showcase their world-class expertise to an influential international audience, and to (AAMAS), which will come to the city in 2020 for the build important global relationships,’ says first time in its nearly 20-year history. head of ACB, Anna Hayward. ‘Following hot on the heels of a series of More than 500 delegates from around the agent technology and provide a single, high- major recent international business event world are expected to attend the five-day profile forum for research in theory and wins ACB has assisted with, this is further conference in April/May 2020, delivering practice. great news for Auckland and New Zealand’s more than 2400 visitor nights and nearly The New Zealand bid team was led by visitor economy.’ $900,000 in economic value to the region. Dr Quan Bai at Auckland University of Tourism New Zealand’s manager of AAMAS is the largest and most influential Technology (AUT), and Professor Michael business events and premium, Lisa Gardiner global conference focused on agents and Winikoff from the University of Otago – adds, ‘Attracting globally renowned multi-agent systems – key elements of with support from Auckland Tourism, Events conferences such as this one supports Tourism artificial intelligence which are widely and Economic Development’s Auckland New Zealand’s strategy to grow the value of applied in robotics, smart mobile systems and Convention Bureau (ACB) and Tourism international tourism to New Zealand. decision support systems. New Zealand’s Conference Assistance ‘They benefit the economy and support The conference will bring together Programme. sector growth, including the creation of high researchers and practitioners in all areas of ‘Securing another significant international value jobs for New Zealanders.’
LOWER HUTT’S NEW MEETING PLACE • Brand new, purpose built, multi-million dollar events centre located in the heart of Lower Hutt, Wellington • Flexible and multi-purpose event spaces with a maximum capacity of 1,200 people • On-site catering and a speciality café • Early bird opening specials, enquire today OPENING MID 2018 – BOOK NOW! www.lowerhutteventscentre.co.nz 0800 MY LHEC
[10] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018
[ PACIFIC ISLANDS Denarau designed to please with Sheraton, Westin mix
Kayaking and snorkelling at Sheraton Resort & Spa Tokoriki Island Sheraton Fiji swimming pool and Flying Fish pool bar
plenary venues and breakouts. Other outside options include the croquet The convention centre itself has a capacity lawn, Westin beachfront and the pro shop of up to 1000 delegates in a banquet setting. lawn at the Denarau Golf & Racquet Club. Across the three resorts of Sheraton Fiji A new facility now available is the Wet- Resort, Sheraton Denarau Villas and The Edge Restaurant, which has re-opened with Westin Denarau Island Resort & Spa, the an extended and enclosed beachfront deck. Fiji SPG hotels offer 717 guest rooms. Also Overlooking Nadi Bay’s waterfront, adjacent available are 16 restaurants and bars, six to the Sheraton Denarau Villas’ horizon pool, Marriott International’s swimming pools, an international standard the Wet-Edge is ideal for a light lunch or offering at Denarau golf course, grass and synthetic tennis courts, casual dinner. (plus Sheraton Resort two lawn bowls greens, helicopter services, Organisers seeking a five-star island water sports and more. meeting or incentive will find a suitable & Spa, Tokoriki, Fiji) Outdoor venues include the popular Sandy setting at Sheraton Resort & Spa, Tokoriki provides plenty of choice Point, a beachfront venue ideal for welcome Island. The resort has a new meeting venue and flexibility for groups and farewell dinners themed in the traditional for up to 100 guests and four dining and large and small. ‘Bula’ style. entertainment venues. The chapel at Sheraton Denarau Villas At The Westin Denarau Island Resort & Spa, the Senirosi Ballroom (along with a versatile courtyard) provides a meeting venue for up to 150. Leon Thomson, executive assistant manager, says the courtyard provides a ‘blank canvas’, which can be presented as per the event planner’s imagination. ‘We recently conducted a large strategy meeting in that venue and the courtyard was used in the most unconventional way – as a play zone for the delegates to refresh and be inspired during the coffee breaks and bring renewed energy into the next session.’ For larger conventions and events, Denarau International Convention Centre and Sheraton Fiji Resort’s Golden Ballroom are situated adjacent to each other and can be combined for uses such as pre-function space, exhibitions,
[12] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018
[ PACIFIC ISLANDS
Beach Resort is also suitable for incentive and reward programmes where families are invited Hotel, resort choice means to travel with the delegate. Meantime, Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s business events well covered Hotel & Bungalows remains the largest hotel in Samoa with 174 refurbished rooms and suites. The hotel features two swimming pools and Feast, Samoa’s largest all-day dining restaurant with four live cooking stations. The conference centre at the hotel is capable of hosting up to 300 people banquet style in the Sheraton Ballroom, with multiple meeting room capability. All conference spaces have natural lighting and a 360-degree view of either tropical gardens or harbour. The venue is located in the heart of Apia, with easy access to a variety of top cultural experiences for delegates. Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Hotel & Bungalows
Fairy garden set up at Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort Having both a hotel and resort property Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort, located five on the island means minutes away from Faleolo International Airport, is ideal for incentive groups and has Sheraton Samoa can recently added to its range of team building offer solutions for groups activities. These include pool paddleboard seeking a myriad of warrior games, beach lawn relays and South Pacific Ocean Kayak Racing. different experiences. The kids club means that Sheraton Samoa
Your Special conference & event awaitS You at
Welcome to Crown Beach Resort & Spa on the sunset coast of Rarotonga. Our Resort features one of Rarotonga’s dynamic Functions & Events Centre featuring a culturally themed function room with a total of 18 x 11meters of well-appointed space. Find out about our wide range of Accommodation, Food & Beverage, Spa and Concierge services that we have on offer. We Contact our Functions & Events have an on-site team of Event Planning Specialists dedicated to make your team on; +682 23953 or event a successful one. Find out how we can bring your Event to life. email us on [email protected]
[14] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 No two experiences are the same at Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay.
Meetings are more than just tables and chairs. We put people first to bring your vision to life in ways you never imagined.
Be inspired by the possibilities.
FIJI MARRIOTT RESORT MOMI BAY Savusavu Road, Momi Bay, Viti Levu, Fiji P (679) 670 7000 I E [email protected] www.fijimarriott.com [ PACIFIC ISLANDS Pacific’s Riviera and more It’s the Pacific – but not as many conference organisers and delegates from New Zealand know it.
New Caledonia has been gaining ground in incentive and other business event numbers out of this country and Australia, but Suzanne Kenyon, manager of NewCal Events, says people are still often surprised Cheers to New Caledonia say (front by what they find. row) Vanessa Tjemplon, Aircalin; Sally Pepermans, New Caledonia ‘People often say that they didn’t expect Tourism; (back row) Suzanne New Caledonia to be so French – the cafés, Kenyon, NewCal Events; Rachael the restaurants, the language and the Bailey, BNZ; Mark Ferguson, Soraya Hebert, both 212F; Camille sophistication,’ says Kenyon. ‘It really helps to Monvoison, Marriott set New Caledonia apart and some people say it reminds them of the French Riviera – right Sheraton New Caledonia Deva’s more a library and armchairs and wooden tables – on your doorstep.’ traditional meeting spaces include the Poméa overlooking the lobby, reception and bar. However, Kenyon says the destination also boardroom, ideal for private lunches and New Caledonia’s airline, Aircalin, actively retains Melanesian and Pacific cultural aspects meetings of up to 18 people. For larger events, targets the group market and emphasises its which further set it apart. the resort has a ballroom and a flexible pre- full service, plus availability of business class, The addition of Sheraton New Caledonia function area in the form of Le Foyer. and free carriage of sporting equipment (check Deva Spa & Golf Resort about three years Meantime, for more of a city experience, for any limits and restrictions). ago gives groups a new dimension to New Le Meridien Noumea Resort & Spa combines Aircalin’s sales executive New Zealand Caledonia and adds to a Marriott selection a French touch with Melanesian couture, Vanessa Tjemplon, says that groups can that already included Le Meridien Noumea art, cuisine and music. The resort has five utilise the normal commercial service and Le Meridien Isle of Pines. meeting rooms (including the James Cook or organise a charter. Incentives and Camille Monvoison, Marriott’s senior Ballroom for 80 delegates) and a beachfront conferences who have delegates keen to look business development manager New restaurant, Le Faré. around the destination after the event may Caledonia, says the choice is like having Meeting and event facilities have an be inclined to charter one way and make use three destinations in one. abundance of natural lighting and the resort of regular services on the return. ‘More and more groups are using Sheraton offers free wireless high speed internet (by Sally Pepermans, who represents New Deva pre or post and this can include a round request) in those areas. Outdoor and pre- Caledonia Tourism in New Zealand, says the or two of golf,’ says Monvoison. function spaces are available as well. organisation is taking a personal approach to The property is also well equipped for entire Le Meridien Ile des Pins (Isle of Pines) is more conference and incentive organisers, holding programmes, with NewCal Events always keen likely to be utilised for high end incentives private meetings, updates and lunches with to utilise the resort’s various spaces (dinner on and corporate retreats out of the New Zealand key people in market. This works alongside the the golf course anyone?) for special functions. market. It includes the Mezzanine space – with occasional larger get-together. New Pavillion for Shangri-La’s Fijian Resort & Spa
The Pavilion can seat up to 650 people addition to our Ratu Makutu Events Centre, Shangri-La’s Fijian banquet style and up to 750 people for a making our conference and events space reception. The resort previously had a similar singularly one of the largest not just on the Resort and Spa, Yanuca marquee that was destroyed by a cyclone at Coral Coast but on an island in Fiji,’ Nand says. Island, Cuvu has the end of 2012. Nand says the resort can set up events acquired a new marquee ‘The Pavillion is a welcome addition to specially curated to the requirements of PCOs our meetings offerings as it offers a range of and corporates. Top choice locations around to cater for its ever options for groups who want to hold meetings the resort include the Marau Village (seating growing conference or a dinner event at this venue. It is also a up to 250 and ideal for Fijian-themed nights), groups and weddings great wet weather option for larger events,’ says the Lagoon Beach area and the beautifully director of sales, Shashita Nand. manicured nine hole golf course. segment. Installed late ‘Since the installation we have had a number The Pavilion is part of Shangri-La’s Fijian last year, the 810sqm of our larger groups opting for the Pavillion Resort & Spa’s event facilities that includes marquee offers a myriad for their gala dinners and awards nights; it is the premier Ratu Makutu Events Centre, Davui of choices for events. perfect for such occasions. We are fortunate to Hall comprising two separate meeting rooms, be able to use the outside relaxation areas as secretariat room and the Ratu Malutu Events part of this event space.’ The Pavilion is a great centre executive boardroom.
[16] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018
[ PACIFIC ISLANDS Make it Momi Resort in Crown position for Rarotonga events Sheraton SAMOA An ideal position on the sheltered sunset coast of Rarotonga, a dedicated conference and function room, and a reputation for fine dining Distinctively Different, at Flambé and a la carte and themed nights at Oceans Resort and Bar all add up to make Crown Collectively Powerful Beach Resort & Spa an attractive island option. The resort specialises in creating an environment for private businesses, government departments or companies to conduct seminars, training sessions, performance reviews and full conferences with a range of services and facilities. The conference room caters for between 10 and 100 people and Taking advantage of the beachfront has air conditioning, a courtyard lounge and dining area, plus LCD location at Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay projector and surround sound PA system. Crown Beach also has additional break out rooms that can be used Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay has opened up for private workshops and small group programmes. a previously untapped area of Fiji to event The resort is known for its Island Night buffets, enjoyed by groups planners, with over 1500sqm of indoor and and independent guests. outdoor meeting and event space. ‘Island Night is the highlight for many of our international guests’, says Sierra Glade, general manager of Crown Beach. On Viti Levu’s south west, 33km from Nadi International Other theme nights at Oceans Restaurant & Bar include Ribs, Steak Situated in the heart of Apia Airport, Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay is the only over-water & Fish with salad, and a Carvery Roast Buffet. with direct access to local accommodation on Fiji’s mainland. The resort has 36 sites and shopping Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay also has a dedicated events and standalone island- conference centre. The Grand Salon Ballroom can accommodate themed luxury villas, at our doorstep! events of up to 400 people theatre style or split into three rooms with five acres of for smaller groups. botanical gardens The conference centre also features 1100 metres of outdoor that meet a white pre-function space set around a garden, and an island boardroom sandy beach. that can accommodate up to 55 theatre style. It is 10 minutes from Meeting and events planners can take advantage of outdoor Rarotonga International spaces such as North Point or Fish Bar, or even have exclusive Airport and a further 15 use of Vonu Beach seating more than 500 people. minutes to downtown Avarua.
With unlimited venues surrounded by tropical beauty, a guaranteed statement event awaits you!
For more information, visit our websites at: www.sheratonsamoabeachresort.com www.sheratonsamoaaggiegreyshotel.com
[18] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 Or send us an email at [email protected] Sheraton SAMOA Distinctively Different, Collectively Powerful
Situated in the heart of Apia with direct access to local sites and shopping at our doorstep!
With unlimited venues surrounded by tropical beauty, a guaranteed statement event awaits you!
For more information, visit our websites at: www.sheratonsamoabeachresort.com www.sheratonsamoaaggiegreyshotel.com Or send us an email at [email protected] [ PACIFIC ISLANDS
Scenic Resort Matavai meetings a new Matavai Nuie Niue experience
Matavai Conference Centre Niue, adjacent to Scenic Matavai Resort, is seeing solid enquiries coming through for meetings and conferences, says general manager Mathew Brettell. Outlook good This is on top of a strong weddings market and weekly flights November to March. for Tonga attracted by Matavai’s spectacular clifftop Matavai offers special delegate packages position and sweeping ocean views that and a modern service that includes a dedicated make for an unbeatable backdrop to any event coordinator, technical equipment and special occasion. full banquet / food and beverage offerings. With flexible spaces, the conference Accommodation includes the Scenic centre can serve multiple purposes under Matavai Resort Niue and the Scenic Matavai one roof, from smaller meeting spaces and Apartments and Villa, just 1.5 kilometres away. breakout areas to larger scale dining and The resort itself has 56 rooms. entertainment activities. However, the conference centre also works Scenic Tonga Brettell says the beauty of Niue is its with other accommodation providers on the compact nature and exceptional ‘can island – which includes cottages, homestays, Scenic Hotel Tonga has been do’ attitude. ‘Conference organisers, like motels and private bungalows. recovered from a cyclone wedding planners, are encouraged to stretch There is also a surprising selection of food battering earlier this year and their minds knowing that there is a whole outlets, from the resort’s own restaurant is back up and running and island full of possibilities to deliver a fresh through to restaurants, cafes and bars – many new perspective on any event or occasion,’ of them with views across the sea. performing well, says general he adds. Delegates will find plenty to do in Niue – manager Katie Silcock. Niue itself is easy to reach from New diving and snorkelling, whale watching and ‘From a community perspective we Zealand, with Air New Zealand operating two fishing are all options along with golf, sea are continuing to show our support flights a week April to October (peak season) tracks and walks, and caving. and recently held a cyclone relief event. The day was a mix of Tongan and international families who enjoyed a market style event with local arts, crafts and beer, market food and children’s activities.’ At the time of going to press some accommodation businesses in Nukualofa were still closed or running with loss of inventory. However Silcock says the season ahead looks positive and she is encouraging groups to look at Tonga for a meeting or incentive with a difference. She says that Haapai and Vavau, both well known for whale watching were unaffected by the cyclone.
[20] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018
[ CONVENE NORTH
Convene North: Let’s get inspired
The impressive Waikato stand at Convene North 2018
The annual event drew in business This year’s headline speaker was Michelle Convene North event planners, conference organisers and Dickinson, aka Nanogirl. incentive planners and connected them ‘This year’s programme was designed to 2018 was held at with suppliers, venues, activity operators, really inspire our visitors and show them the Vodafone Events accommodation providers, and more from kinds of events they can put on, and we had around the North Island. such a wide variety of exhibitors to help them Centre in Auckland Ally Eastaugh, Convene Group, says this with their event planning needs,’ she says. year’s programme was packed throughout Next year’s event will head back to on 10 April. the whole day, with networking events, a Auckland’s CBD. Convene North 2019 will be ‘street market’ lunch, and speaker sessions. held at the Aotea Centre on 9 April. Getting formal with Jet Park
Jet Park Hotel and Conference Centre pulled out all the stops at Convene, showcasing its degustation menu at its stand.
‘Showing our degustation menu to our clients today gives them an idea of what we have to offer, and doing this at Convene is a great opportunity,’ says Jabez Lobo, Jet Park Hotel and Luana Walker, Siemone Rawson, Conference Centre. Miriam Asolupe, and Amanda Watts, all Auckland Museum
[22] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 CONVENE NORTH]
Dave Sutherland, founder Whoa! Breaking the fast at Studios; Riley Callander, chef and Ben Bayly co-owner Convene 2018 of The Grounds at Whoa! Studios Convene North 2018 kicked off with a breakfast by Austin’s Food Design, with Dave Sutherland from Whoa! Studios putting on a presentation to get delegates inspired for the day. Speaking about the concept of ‘being there and back again’, Sutherland related his journey from the corporate world, to becoming an entrepreneur and then coming back again with Whoa! Studios’ foray into corporate and charity. ‘One day after having a really good career at IBM I just got bored,’ he says. Sutherland then went on to start a business, and sell it, before kicking off his Whoa! Studios journey. One of those groups, in fact one of the very first groups, was ‘I embarked into the unknown. It’s that sense of adventure, it’s being Make a Wish. ok with risks. We grew organically had a bit of fun and sold. I decided ‘What kept me going was that core desire to give back to the to go and do something quite different, but didn’t know what,’ he says. community and make a difference. We were close to opening and ‘I knew I wanted to give back and when I got this big pay out I I met the new head of Make a Wish Foundation and I knew that decided I didn’t need all of it. I had a fascination with the creativity of we wanted to find these families and create some joy in their lives,’ the film industry and I was always the fun guy for the kids. Sutherland says. ‘I also used to think corporate and fun were two separate things, but ‘It became my mantra. Despite these 17-hour days and challenges they’re not, it’s really just innovation. We’ve got something to offer and pressure we did it. We opened in December and we had all these corporates by way of creativity and experiences.’ families be given a meal, a show and some love from a random While Whoa! Studios is a place for families to go and have fun. It’s stranger that didn’t know them from a bar of soap. also a place for families to enjoy good quality food, and it’s also a ‘If you’re ever doing anything figure out what your deepest location for groups of people to connect. motivation is and whether it’s strong enough to carry the test of time.’ Best on show There was a great range of stands at this year’s Convene North, with many impressing the judges. However, there were definitely some standouts: Best stand at Convene 2018 – The Grounds at Whoa! Studios Runner up Best Stand at Convene 2018 – Naumi Hotels Best Visitor Experience at Convene 2018 – Rose Tinted Glasses Best Stand Creativity at Convene 2018 – Destination Great Lake Taupo
LED lsighctinrg e Setagning draping sound projection LOCATION ANY TIME ANY EVENT ANY 7) 44 72 0800 B(08I0G0 2 SCS.CRO.NEZ EN .AVEVENT WWW
The Grounds restaurant at Whoa! Studios as a function space
meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 [23] [ SOCIAL SCENE Gold Coast connects in AKL Both new and familiar favourites from across the ditch were in Auckland recently as part of Gold Coast Connect. Hosted in Grand Mercure Auckland’s funky laneway, PCOs, incentive operators and corporate travel managers received an update on new developments on the coast as it headed into what was a very successful hosting of the XXI Commonwealth Games.
Samantha Collingridge, RACV Royal Pines Resort and Jo Meredith, HOT Events
Jackie Coyne and Camilla Taylor, S2N and Lynette White, Orbit and Shannon Rebecca Gollan, Meriton Suites Broadbeach & Southport Soraya Hebert, 212F Thwaites, Business Events Gold Coast (centre) meets Debz Apera and Kelly Gilkison, both Total Event
Kim Herd, Venture Travel and John Bond, Dreamweaver
Auckland Conventions, Venues & Events’ Lorena Marshall had a great time hosting some clients to the Mamma Mia musical at Bruce Mason Centre. Marshall hosted the group upstairs in the Hauraki Gulf Bar and Rangitoto Balcony, Whoa Mamma complete with a pinkish/orange sunset. They Pictured are Gill Johnston, North Harbour Club; Nicky Remke and friend, enjoyed a cheese platter, salmon and drinks Tom Dick and Harry Event Management; Chelsea Johnston, North Harbour Club and Lorena Marshall, Auckland Conventions, Venues & Events before heading to the theatre at 8pm for the show.
Convene North kicked off with a bang in Auckland this April, with exhibitors and buyers getting together to enjoy the Welcome Welcome to Convene Function event the night before they got into business mode.
Elizabeth Maxwell, ESP Ventures Ltd; Anne Bickers; Cordis Maggie Guy, Event Solutions; Shayne Forrest, Ali Smith, Millennium Hotels and Auckland; Suz Baker, Eventionz; Pip Lloydd, Copthorne Hotel Hobbiton; Claire Webber, Event Solutions; Amanda Resorts; Ally Eastaugh, Convene Group; & Resort Hokianga; Maxine Wallis, Cordis Auckland Graham, Hamilton & Waikato Tourism Jacqui Alexandra, Event Impressions ProMag. We’re out there
[24] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 SOCIAL SCENE] Taking it to the streets Convene Group introduced a new concept at its Convene North event in April - a street market networking lunch. While choosing between a number of different food stations (including a gigantic dessert buffet) delegates were put into groups via a special coloured dot and asked to chat with people they wouldn’t normally network with.
A dramatic welcome Knowing Naumi at the Naumi Auckland Airport Hotel function from at big function Brittany Coleman and Georgia Chandler
A hip hotel needed a funky opening party, and that’s what happened at Naumi Auckland Airport Hotel in April.
Jenny Mcmeekin and Brooke Mcintosh both Bluegates Real Estate
Naumi Hotels CEO – Australia and New Zealand, Gaurang Jhunjhnuwala with Craig Cunningham, Southern Hospitality Ali Mendi, Naumi; Clara Perego, Grace Walley, both Expedia Farewell and welcome Community groups and leaders, conference and meeting colleagues and corporate clients were all in the mix when Richard Jeffery was farewelled (and David Comery welcomed) as CEO of Second Nature Trust at Vodafone Events Centre recently. JT Kemeys, PwC catches up with David Hancock from Destination Wairarapa
Sir Noel Robinson of Richard Jeffery… ‘I’ve never enjoyed working with someone so much.’
Guests at the Vodafone Events Centre to farewell Richard Jeffery included Michael Shah, Cordis Auckland; Sarah Prue Daly, New Zealand International Hillman, TMS Marketing Solutions Limited; Alan Trotter, Peni Dodrolagi, Vodafone Events Centre; Paul Convention Centre has a chat with Shelley former chief executive Conventions and Incentives NZ; Tania Hailes, Find A Venue; Anthea Poihipi, Peek Eastwood, Heritage & CityLife Hotels Adolphe, TMS; James Chatterley, Event Dynamics Exhibition Design and Display
meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 [25] [ WAIKATO
Te Parapara Garden, Hamilton Gardens
Claudelands Conference & Exhibition Centre
Thirty international airlines fly direct to Auckland from 43 destinations around the world. There are 122 flights per week into Auckland from Australia.’
2. Accommodation Ten reasons to choose There are over 1700 rooms available in Hamilton city sleeping over 3,600 people, plus more across the wider region. Hamilton & Waikato Distinction Hamilton Hotel in Te Rapa is undergoing an extensive upgrade across its rooms and suites, the Sudima Hotel is Waikato is famous for river – the mighty Waikato,’ she says. developing its conference and event facilities, Graham spoke with Meeting Newz about while Novotel Tainui is also refurbishing Middle Earth movie magic, the top 10 reasons event planners, PCOs and accommodation and building an additional underground wonders, incentive organisers should consider the 40 rooms at its central city site. legendary surf beaches, Waikato region for their next event. 3. Conference Venues a tea estate, international 1. Getting here is easy Graham says buyers are often surprised by award-winning gardens Hamilton’s central North Island location how much the region has to offer when it and more. provides easy access from other North Island comes to conference venues. ‘They can choose locations – Auckland, Rotorua, Taupo and the from large scale conference and exhibition Bay of Plenty are within an easy commute. venues, boutique lodges, accommodation It’s for these reasons Amanda Graham, ‘Hamilton Airport is a 20-minute drive with on-site conference facilities or even business events manager, Hamilton & from the central city and services 150 retreat-style getaways and quirky offerings,’ Waikato Tourism, says the region is bursting flights weekly, with 4700 seats each way per she says. with opportunities for business events and week to three direct locations – Wellington, ‘Claudelands Conference & Exhibition incentives. Christchurch and Palmerston North. There Centre boasts theatre capacity for up to ‘The Waikato, and its metropolitan hub are 51 flights per week between Hamilton 6000 delegates, nine breakout spaces, a of Hamilton, is situated in the central North and Wellington,’ Graham says. combined 10,000 square metres of indoor Island – an area renowned for nature-based ‘Auckland Airport is the international and outdoor exhibition space – meaning it tourism, rich agricultural land, a proud gateway to the Waikato region. Hamilton is can accommodate conferences of all sizes Maori heritage, and the country’s longest an easy drive south from Auckland Airport. and styles.’
Lyrica performing in the 4. Middle Earth Magic Cathedral Cave, Waitomo Glowworm Caves ‘A destination for any Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fans, Hobbiton Movie Set is one of the few places on Earth where you can stroll
Timber Trail
[26] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 WAIKATO] around a permanent movie set made famous 8. The Great Outdoors by the movies directed by New Zealander Sir ‘The Hamilton & Waikato region is known Peter Jackson,’ Graham says. for its rolling hills and wide-open spaces, ancient bush clad mountains and natural 5. The Wonders of Waitomo attractions,’ she says. Underground adventures await visitors to ‘Home to three of New Zealand’s Great the Waikato, Graham says, with the world- Rides, the Hamilton & Waikato region boasts renowned Waikato Caves being found in hundreds of kilometres of trails to discover, the region. ‘Subterranean wonders, millions offering riders an up-close look at our of years in the making, create a playground picturesque scenery and fascinating past. unlike any other, punctuated by the twinkling ‘Raglan is the region’s great chill out spot lights of thousands of glowworms.’ and is a popular destination for a laidback seaside escape – try kayaking, stand up 6. Cuppa Tea? paddleboarding, give surfing a go, or take ‘Renowned as the world’s purest tea, a sunset cruise on the harbour with fish ‘n’ Zealong is the country’s only tea estate,’ chips,’ Graham explains. Hobbiton Movie Set says Graham. ‘The organic plantation grows ‘Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari is a selection of Oolong teas and visitors can also a haven for native wildlife and plants,’ Tainui waka observed the river’s strong pull watch tea-pickers while taking a tour of the she adds. ‘It is the largest ecological ‘island’ into the sea. premises, before indulging in a tea-inspired on mainland New Zealand. Many native high tea or lunch.’ protected species such as kaka, kiwi, kokako 10. City of the Future and tuatara live and thrive at the mountain.’ Located in Hamilton, Ruakura is set to 7. Gardens with a Difference become New Zealand’s freight hub of the Hamilton Gardens is the Waikato’s most 9. Home of the Maori King future. Located within the Golden Triangle, visited attraction with over one million The Hamilton & Waikato region has been the proposed 480-hectare inland port visitors each year. ‘Telling the story of gardens a significant area for Maori for hundreds of development will have access to inter- through themed garden collections, Hamilton years since the great voyaging Tainui waka regional road, rail and air transport. Tainui Gardens explores different civilisations and (canoe) made landfall in Kawhia more than Group Holdings, the developer, estimates that creates historically important garden styles 800 years ago. Maori place names tell the the hub will generate 11,000 jobs and inject from the farthest reaches of the world,’ story of the region, with Waikato meaning $5m into the region, covering an area larger explains Graham. ‘flowing water’ named after the people of the than the Auckland Central Business District. Creating connections at SKYCITY Hamilton
Mystery Creek Unique, Creative, Dynamic
Festivals - Events - Trade Shows SKYCITY Hamilton Function Centre - Conferences - Gala Dinners is offering a day delegate package, priced at $59 per person. T: 07 843 4497 E: [email protected] www.mysterycreek.conz The all-inclusive option is designed to offer a cost-effective full- day package, and includes venue hire and set up, audio and visual equipment hire, onsite car parking and more. SKYCITY Hamilton is situated in the heart of Hamilton city, overlooking the Waikato River. The venue provides a dedicated function team, and the flexible function centre can cater for small and large groups, up to 600 delegates. There are 300 car parks, with a range of entertainment options. On site catering is available, and chefs can create a customised menu to suit theme, budget and dietary requirements. The SKYCITY Hamilton team can assist with theming, room decoration and entertainment options.
meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 [27] [ WAIKATO
on site at Claudelands and restored for use as a function space. The new refurbishment, which is expected A grand affair to get underway this month, will include repainting the interior, improved lighting, and new furnishings to better reflect and enhance the character of the space, says Denise McRae, director business development and marketing, H3, who operates Claudelands, as well as FMG Stadium Waikato, Seddon Park and Founders Theatre. ‘The work will ensure The Grandstand remains regarded as a premium celebration space.’ The Grandstand can cater for up to 120 people cocktail style, or 90 people for a banquet. McRae says a relaunch of the venue is expected to take place in late June.
The Grandstand exterior
Claudelands’ much-loved Built in 1878 in Cambridge for the character venue The Cambridge Jockey Club, The Grandstand moved to Claudelands in 1926 after being Grandstand is set to get a purchased by the Hamilton Racing Club. In makeover this year. 2009, it was relocated to a different position The Grandstand’s current interior
Riding on Timber Trail 40 people. We provide all services, and a range of activities, in a beautiful, remote location where people can get away from it all, recharge and focus on the important things,’ says director Bruce Maunsell. The lodge accommodates up to 50 guests in 20 bedrooms, offering a true wilderness experience with a touch of comfort. Maunsell says guests to the lodge include cyclists who are riding the two- day Timber Trail, of which the lodge is situated at the midpoint. ‘But many other non-cycling guests choose to stay simply to enjoy a true getaway, or perhaps do some walking on the tracks around the lodge, or to see the abundant birdlife in the wilderness of the Pureora Forest,’ he On the trail says. Timber Trail Lodge is owned by a consortium ‘The lodge is also ideal for multi-day of 27 King Country locals and other Kiwis group gatherings and we’ve started to receive great reviews from our larger and has a strong focus on sustainability. groups that are staying at the lodge for corporate retreats and team building. Opening just over a year ago, the lodge, caters for cyclists and hikers on the Timber ‘We work closely with other local which is located in the centre of Pureora Trail, and is also becoming a popular venue operators and have a very popular all- Forest Park in the central North Island, is for business retreats and special events. inclusive package that makes it easy completely off-grid, and aims to demonstrate ‘Timber Trail Lodge is ideal as an off-grid for visitors to plan their Timber Trail environmental sustainability in practice. It venue for team meetings and events for up to experience.’
[28] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 WAIKATO]
Waitomo facilities and activities, with three fully tailored packages that can be suited to A truly Kiwi offering the size of an event. Easily accessible to Auckland, Hamilton and Rotorua, Waitomo is ideal for standalone events or as an addition to an event held in a nearby town or city. ‘Delegates are really spoilt for choice at Waitomo, with a wide range of once- in-a-lifetime activities and team building experiences,’ says Knipmeijer. Waitomo has a rich tourism and cultural history. As a region it is one of New Zealand’s original tourist destinations. At the heart is the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves, a magnet for both domestic and international visitors, and often placed on top destination lists around the world. ‘If you are after diversity, there are a number of other caves in the Waitomo area that are not Set amongst native New Zealand bush in the heart of the North to be missed when visiting the region,’ says Island, the iconic Waitomo Caves is a bucket list destination for Knipmeijer. most visitors to New Zealand. The very reasons so many visitors Waitomo offers three package options to come to explore this special place are the same reasons it is groups - the Waitomo Activity Package, the Waitomo Cultural Package, and the Waitomo ideal for events and incentive activities. Entertainment Package. That’s according to Vincent Knipmeijer, visitors and the destination. ‘These three packages are our most food and beverage manager, Waitomo ‘If the market is looking for something popular options, but if you have something Group, who says Waitomo is a ‘truly Kiwi special, something that is different to different in mind our team can work with offering’, and the packages offered to groups everything else - well, that’s us,’ he says. you to design your event package to suit are designed to create a connection between Waitomo offers a wide range of venues, your event needs.’
07 834 4989 | [email protected] www.skycityhamilton.co.nz
meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 [29] [ WAIKATO
giving us the ability to cater to anything from a 100-person industry dinner to a 50,000-person festival. From the Mystery Creek Pavilion to the Convention Centre to the Bledisloe and Heritage Village, we have the perfect space to meet your requirements.’ Natzke says that while Hamilton is known for its agriculture and technology, Mystery Creek is not industry-specific; any kind of conference or event can take place on the property. ‘The amount of space we have here means the options for events are endless, and we have multiple venues to suit all different event sizes. Our size here means those large conferences have plenty of space, while New Zealand Symphony product launches or training for conferences Orchestra at Mystery around agriculture and technology have Creek Events Centre Mystery Creek: We’re endless space for those large machines to be on display on a very open platform. The site is private and contained,’ he explains. more than just Fieldays ‘And for gala dinners or smaller meetings, we have venues to suit those too. We really Located just over 15 minutes Agricultural Fieldays event. want our clients to recognise the value they from the centre of Hamilton, And while Fieldays remains its can get out of an event here.’ cornerstone event, there is much more to Natzke says seeing the different kinds Mystery Creek Events Centre Mystery Creek, says David Natzke, key of events that take place at Mystery Creek is situated on 114 hectares of accounts and sales manager. is really inspiring. ‘We work with a lot of natural surrounds beside the Not only does the site play host to people who have a great vision, and we Waikato River. Equidays and the Transport and Heavy love helping people see what they can do Equipment (THE) Expo, Natzke says the in this space to achieve that vision,’ he says. The site is owned and operated by the not- property has become a versatile space, ‘Everyone knows Mystery Creek, everyone for-profit New Zealand National Fieldays able to be ‘transformed into a thriving knows Fieldays; it’s iconic. But we are open Society. Formed in 1968 by a group of like- event city’. the rest of the year too. We live and breathe minded and passionate farmers, the society’s ‘Our goal is to let the industry know that this place and we want everyone to know mission is to advance agriculture in New we are more than just Fieldays,’ he says. we have this amazing platform to offer the Zealand, primarily through its annual NZ ‘We offer both indoor and outdoor space, events industry.’
‘Our current commercial accommodation ‘Distinction Hamilton in Te Rapa inventory is at capacity during peak periods, is undergoing an extensive upgrade as the international tour market has pushed across its rooms and suites, the Sudima ‘We are into Hamilton from Auckland, which leaves Hotel is developing its conference and limited accommodation for conferences,’ event facilities, and Novotel Tainui is she explains. refurbishing and building an additional missing ‘We are missing out on lucrative multi- 40 rooms on its central city site,’ she says. day association conferences, even though Graham says as well as association and we have the best conference and exhibition special interest conferences, Hamilton is out’ centre in New Zealand at Claudelands, which also missing out on the very lucrative is capable of holding large conferences for high-end multi-day conventions that over 1,500 people and Claudelands Arena can demand five-star accommodation as a Amanda Graham, seat 6,000 delegates for a plenary session. minimum before choosing a host region. business events ‘We also have the scale for large outdoor ‘Introducing new premium manager Hamilton & exhibitions, tradeshows and indoor commercial accommodation would Waikato Tourism, says conferences at Mystery Creek Events move us up a notch in the high- Centre, which tip the region to capacity for value destination stakes. There is no Hamilton is struggling commercial accommodation during Fieldays shortage of demand, however we need to meet quality each year.’ investors to help develop these assets,’ accommodation Graham says the bureau does acknowledge she explains. requirements for the region’s current operators who ‘Together as a region, we are are ‘stepping up’ to help address hotel working hard to attract investment for conferences. accommodation needs. accommodation.’
[30] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 PEOPLE ON THE MOVE ]
Ashennafee Rickus Alana Bicknell is events and sponsorship coordinator at is head of sales for Venues Wellington. the Restaurant Association of New Zealand. With extensive experience within the UK She comes into the role with a background events market, Bicknell returned to New in event coordination and administration Zealand in 2012. Previously conventions from previous positions in Australia, and and functions sales manager at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa was most recently internally promoted Tongarewa, she joined the Venues after a year with the Restaurant Association Wellington sales team in 2016 with focus on attracting and managing the reception desk. Already familiar and involved in many securing multi-day Australasian conference business in her role of the association’s events, she transitioned fully into this events role as senior sales development manager. starting on 30 April. Shelley Bascand Charlotte Allen is business development manager for the is event and administration assistant at Lower Hutt Events Centre. Bascand was Convene Group. Allen comes to Convene born and raised in the Lower Hutt, and Group after graduating from AUT where has worked for more than 10 years in she majored in event management/ sales and marketing in various roles for marketing and public relations. She has The Bolton Hotel, Wellington Central. recent work experience in events and Bascand is tasked with taking Lower Hutt hosting at Mekong Baby and completed to the rest of New Zealand, attracting conferences, exhibitions, her co-op module through wedding planning and event specialist tradeshows and banquets.. company, K Inspire Events, along with a collection of volunteer roles including Arts Week and the 2017 VMAs. Sunil Malik is general manager of the Lower Hutt Events Anthony Gradiska Centre. Malik has spent more than 45 years is head chef for Gibbston Valley Winery in the hospitality and conventions industry Restaurant. Gradiska has moved down to and started his career as a management Central Otago from Auckland, where he trainee with five-star luxury hotel, The Taj has held senior positions in several New Mahal Palace Hotel, Mumbai. He has spent Zealand establishments such as Molten the last 29 years at the Adelaide Convention and The French Cafe. Centre, where he held the position of deputy Gradiska is developing the new kitchen CEO for the past 16 years. garden at Gibbston Valley. On his first day after service he picked up the shovel and cracked into it. His goal is to have at least one ingredient grown in the garden in each of his dishes. Gary Jarvis is chief operating officer for Heritage Hotel Management, after being Melissa Shaw promoted from group operations is the general manager for Sofitel manager. Reporting to Graham Yan the Wellington. Shaw’s career with Sofitel CEO, his responsibilities will include began back in 2005 at Sofitel Brisbane all hotel operations, plus sales and Central and eventually brought her to marketing. Jarvis joined Heritage Hotels Wellington. Another addition to Sofitel in 2006 at Heritage Auckland as executive assistant manager, Wellington’s team is the new head chef, taking up the role of general manager of Heritage Christchurch Roy Giam. His cuisine boasts international in 2007. He returned to Auckland in 2013 to join Heritage Hotel flair and cutting edge techniques, delivering Management’s executive team as group operations manager, a role sublime dining experiences to guests. he held for five years until his promotion to COO.
Veronique Delattre Juan Gomez is general manager for Pullman is food and beverage manager for Crowne Auckland, effective as of April 2018. Plaza Queenstown. He joined IHG in 2012, Originally from France, Delattre’s and has spent the last five years working hotel career spans 20 years, including in InterContinental Wellington’s Lobby major international stints working for Lounge. ‘I’m delighted to lead my team AccorHotels in the United Kingdom, to offer dining experiences at threesixty Russia, Poland, Vietnam and Malaysia. restaurant, to guests as well as conference delegates and business groups.’
Send your people news to: [email protected]
meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 [31] [ SOUTHLAND
Southland, the ‘breadbasket’ of farming-related conferences
Southern charm
In a region that is rich in farming along with 4500 sheep. Motorworks and Dig This.’ innovation and agricultural Low says ILT Stadium Southland is just Historically, perceptions of distance and one of the many venues in Invercargill the associated costs have been barriers to success, it is of no surprise that that demonstrates the ability of the city considering Invercargill as a conference Invercargill has become known to accommodate conferences of all styles destination, says Low. as the ‘breadbasket’ of farming- and size. ‘These barriers are easily overcome related conferences. ‘Strong industry partnerships with venues, when the affordability and accessibility operators and accommodation providers of city services are realised. Anywhere in That’s according to Warrick Low, tourism across the region have contributed to the Invercargill can be reached within five to 10 and events manager, Venture Southland. growing awareness of Southland as a minutes’ drive - including the airport.’ ‘From the World Shearing and Wool preferred conference destination,’ he says. ‘A variety of accommodation options Handling Championships to Young Farmers However, Low warns the industry to not be are available from the premium Ascot Park and the Rural Women Conference, Southland fooled into thinking it’s all about meat, milk Hotel and Conference Centre, to boutique venues, operators and accommodation and wool conferences. accommodation such as The Lodges,’ he adds. providers have rolled out the welcome ‘Invercargill has also recently hosted a Low says Invercargill offers extensive pre mat for the rural sector over the past year,’ variety of sector meets including Freshwaters and post conference opportunities with great he explains. on the Edge, NZ Family Budgeting, Property proximity to bucket list attractions found on ‘The World Shearing and Wool Handling Managers Conference and the CATE Stewart Island and in Fiordland, the Catlins Championships was not only a first for conference. As the classic motoring capital and Queenstown. Southland, but also for New Zealand showing of New Zealand, Invercargill was the perfect ‘If the world class facilities, friendly that Invercargill’s facilities can match it with fit for the National Mustang Convention Southland locals, and potential for post the best in the country.’ and the recently held Jaguar conference. conference jaunts have not yet convinced Hundreds of spectators and participants Conference attendees were spoilt for you then also keep in mind…fresh from all over the world flocked to ILT choice in the motoring activities on offer bluff oysters and Southland’s delicacy, Stadium Southland for the championships at Transport World, Motorcycle Mecca, cheese rolls.’
ILT Stadium Southland has Real rural at Stadium Southland some big events on its roster this year, having hosted the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards this May, as well as hosting the FMG Young Farmer of the Year Awards this coming July.
The FMG Young Farmer of the Year Awards will see the venue accommodate up to 1200 guests. Nigel Skelt, ILT Stadium Southland general manager, says the venue will continue with the rural theme it has used after hosting the 2017 World Sheep Shearing and Wool Handling Championships. ILT Stadium Southland is the largest indoor conference and exhibition space in Southland, and hosts around 70 events per year. Stadium Southland
[32] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 SOUTHLAND]
as there were other rooms available, which allowed us to have breakout sessions, and Plaudits for Transport Bill’s Shed was the perfect size for our awards dinner,’ says McCrostie. World’s ‘dream team’ Being part of a hub of attractions, there are also options provided for off-site breakout sessions such as team building exercises at Dig This - New Zealand’s only heavy equipment playground located just around the corner from Transport World. McCrostie says the conference ran without a glitch and as a busy executive assistant, her job was made easier with a designated, on-site event manager on hand throughout the entire planning process as well as The key success factor to throughout the conference and awards successful conferences and events evening itself. Allied Concrete event at ‘All of our technology requirements were is ‘people, people, people’. Transport World met. The IT guidance we received from Mike, Transport World’s on-site technician was That’s the word according to Allied encompassing venue set in the surrounds very helpful,’ she explains. Concrete executive assistant Megan of the largest privately owned transport McCrostie, who recently booked a two-day collection of its type in the world. With nine Catering conference and awards dinner for 100 staff at spaces including fixed and flexible areas Transport World in Invercargill. with retractable walls, the venue is suitable Transport World partners with the culinary ‘The event staff there are absolutely brilliant for small business meetings through to large masterminds from Mash Catering. Owned – they made it all so easy. We now refer to events for up to 1000 people. Guests can and operated by former chef-to-the-stars Rachel, Marie and Adam as the ‘dream team’. select the best fit for their event, from theatre Mat Jackson, Mash Catering has a team of They were very obliging and attentive and to boardroom and cocktail to banquet, with highly qualified chefs and front of house committed to meeting our needs,’ she says. large staging also available. staff dedicated to providing exceptional food The ‘dream team’ runs the all- ‘The venue was great for our conference and service for all types of events.
The Ascot Park Hotel is your one-stop shop “Fit for purpose spots and for conferences: keen to make it happen, Invercargill made our • Multi-use facilities covering intimate 50th an easy decision” groups to large functions with 600 attendees. James Goodwin Southland Young Farmers Chair • Variety of accommodation options on site: Hotel, motel & apartments.
Invercargill – play We specialise in making your conference hosts to the 50th FMG or event a spectacular success. Young Farmers Event Contact Nikki Buckley T: 03 211 3765 (DDI) 5th – 8th July 2018 E: [email protected] W: ascotparkhotel.co.nz
meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 [33] [ SOUTHLAND Trust invests $2.1m into Ascot revamp
A recently renovated guest room at Ascot Park Hotel Invercargill’s Ascot Park Hotel will The trust has approved extensive upgrades to 53 of the hotel’s 116 rooms, with 13 completed to date and another four currently in the undergo a $2.1 million renovation construction phase. following investment by the Ascot Park Hotel general manager Bryan Townley says the significant expenditure involved reflected the trust’s long-standing Invercargill Licensing Trust. commitment to reinvesting in its portfolio of businesses. ‘It really gives everyone here a positive shot in the arm because every time you redevelop something it shows faith in the future of the business,’ says Townley. Townley says guest feedback on the new rooms had been excellent. ‘Before we launched into this project we took the time to create a prototype room to garner feedback as to what works and what doesn’t from a guest perspective. As a result, we’ve now been able to design a room that really does surpass guest expectations and that’s fantastic,’ World Sheep Shearing & Woolhandling Champs Southland Home Show he explains. ‘People are travelling a lot more nowadays and they have a higher expectation of what’s acceptable in terms of standard. It’s our job to make sure we deliver on that and continue to evolve, not only as a hotel, but as an industry.’ much more than a venue To develop contemporary rooms with a luxurious feel, Townley enlisted award-winning interior designer Lynne Gray, of Gore. ‘It is a complete transformation. We made the decision to gut each ILT Stadium Southland is Invercargill’s most flexible room back to a bare shell and rebuild from there with the aim of venue. Full of unique spaces, we are capable of hosting a future proofing and getting them right up to spec.’ wide range of events including conferences, exhibitions and concerts. The bathroom of a recently renovated guest room at Ascot Park Hotel The venue boasts one of Southland’s largest dining and exhibition areas.
FOR MORE INFORMATION 03 2199310 | www.stadiumsouth.co.nz | [email protected]
Simply Nigella Joseph Parker
[34] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 Cea
memiTRANSPORT WORLD a
Introducing Invercargill’s premier conference, function & attractions destination.
STAND-OUT FEATURES An all-encompassing venue with nine A range of equipment available for hire. unique spaces. Outstanding food and beverage service. Spectacular fixed, and flexible areas Modern technology and dedicated IT with retractable walls. service technician. Capacity to accommodate all numbers, High speed, complimentary WIFI. from small to major functions. Extra-large, convenient access for large Range of styles to suit, from theatre to scale props etc. boardroom and cocktail to banquet. Easy access to accommodation.
Our events team encourage all potential clients to get in touch to learn about our rooms, rates & pricing. With options to suit a range of budgets, our experienced team is happy to work with you to ensure you have the best Le ca oday space for your TALK TO US next special INVERCARGILL - NEW ZEALAND event. T 0800 151 252 UNIQUE BREAKOUT ACTIVITIES E [email protected] W transportworld.nz [ OTAGO
Otago Daily Times dinner event Five-star first Dunedin’s CBD is set to welcome its first five-star boutique hotel, as the Wains Hotel gets ready to relaunch late this year after Dunedin’s a refurbishment.
going big Already occupying a much-loved heritage building in Dunedin, Wains Hotel is situated at 310 Princess On the back of some big success and confidence in Dunedin, the Street and dates from 1862. As city is proactively seeking out larger-scale conferences, says Bree the oldest hotel in Dunedin, it is a Jones, acting destination team leader at Enterprise Dunedin. heritage building steeped in history. The hotel is located in the CBD and ‘Previously we sought to attract For the year ending December 17, despite takes advantage of Dunedin’s business conferences within that 200-500 pax space,’ number of conference and convention delegates district and retail shops. she says. ‘Now we are proactively seeking being down for New Zealand, Dunedin had ‘With its blend of solid stone, out the big ones on the back of the success a percentage growth of 44% on the previous extravagant carvings and luxurious and confidence of Dunedin Venues’ event year. And despite the number of conference materials, the hotel is sure to impress delivery and the collaborative approach the and convention delegate days decreasing for on arrival. The revamped Wains Hotel city takes to securing these events.’ the country, Dunedin had a percentage growth will cater for those looking for the Jones says Dunedin has secured a number of 46% on the previous year. ultimate in boutique hotel experiences,’ of larger international conferences, most Jones says a big event for the city this year says general manager Sally Reiber. notably the World Congress of Herpetology was Tourism Rendezvous New Zealand (TRENZ), An investment of more than 2020, which is expected to bring in 1000 which attracted approximately 1500 delegates $3 million will be spent on the delegates to the city over six days. from more than 29 countries, held in May. refurbishment covering all areas of the Air connectivity and additional ‘TRENZ is the largest event held in Dunedin hotel, which provides 50 guest rooms accommodation capacity over the past this year. Not only does it put our city on a over seven levels. couple of years has strengthened the city’s global stage but it highlights our ability to host ‘Its design has embraced not only ability to deliver, Jones adds. large scale business events.’ the history of the hotel but also the early culture of the city and its Scottish links, and the gold rush era of the 1800s,’ Reiber says. Rail still a popular choice The completed hotel will include a restaurant, bar, gym and meeting facilities. Refurbishment is due to be completed by late 2018. ‘This is extremely exciting news for Wains Hotel and Dunedin City. This boutique level of hotel product It is been 30 years since Dunedin In 2015 Dunedin Railway ran its first ever has been long awaited, and we look Railways’ first tourist train, and it rail tour out of Dunedin – a five-night, six- forward to welcoming our guests to remains one of the most popular day tour from Dunedin to Greymouth and the refurbished hotel later this year.’ due to its success, a second trip in 2016. Both tourist attractions in Dunedin. tours were sold out. Dunedin Railways then Dunedin Railways is the operator of the looked further afield and organised a tour out Taieri Gorge Railway. The Otago Excursion of Christchurch – six nights and seven days Train Trust had been running public taking in southern delights with stopovers in excursions on the Otago Central Railway Dunedin, a trip through the Taieri Gorge and since 1978 but began to recognise the a trip out on the Otago Peninsula, followed potential of the area to tourists. In 1987 the by travel to Invercargill with a trip to Stewart company became known as Taieri Gorge Island. These journeys are becoming more and Railway and the first four-hour trip ran, more popular with another two tours out of Artist’s impression of Wains Hotel guestroom becoming a regular feature in Dunedin. Christchurch about to commence.
[36] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 OTAGO]
Welcome function, keynote speaker, gala dinner and... murder?
Dunedin Pipe band warm up before welcoming guests at a gala dinner at Larnach Castle
Larnach Castle is now clues to solve the ‘who dunnit’ mystery in offering murder mystery New Zealand’s historic castle,’ says Deborah nights – ideal for conference Price, marketing and public relations organisers looking for manager, Larnach Castle. Larnach Castle has also just finished something a bit different. celebrating 50 years of private ownership by the Barker Family. It is one of New ‘For those who are looking for a conference Zealand’s longest standing private dinner with a twist, Larnach Castle has conservation projects. The year finished on partnered with a provider of ‘Murder a high when it was announced the castle has Mystery’ evenings. Imagine an evening of been recognised as a Landmark property by intrigue and hilarity as your group gathers Heritage New Zealand.
meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 [37] [ OTAGO Dunedin’s dedicated duo Scenic Hotel Group’s two hotels in Dunedin continue to prove a force in the conferencing and business events industry in the city.
Scenic Hotel Southern Cross is Dunedin’s largest hotel, located in the heart of Dunedin and providing guests with modern styling, convenience and quality service. The hotel boasts nine function rooms, and is large enough to cater for business groups, Scenic Hotel Southern Cross events and conferences, yet personal enough to provide individualised service. Conference 13.5km away. from its Princes on Dowling Restaurant and facilities include the larger Heritage and Meanwhile, Scenic Hotel Dunedin City Lounge Bar. The restaurant and bar can Cargill rooms on the ground floor as well as features an award-winning design, spacious provide a fast and easy out-catering solution a variety of meeting facilities located at the guest rooms and modern facilities. Its meeting for any meeting, exhibition, product launch, conference centre on the fourth floor. facilities offer street-level access. The mid- party or office shout. The hotel has 121 Its location in Dunedin means the city sized fully air-conditioned conference venue, accommodation rooms. centre and The Octagon are close by, with the Highland Room, seats up to 50 people Scenic Hotel Group works in partnership Otago Museum only 1.8km away, Speights theatre style. Conference organisers can take with Dunedin Venues to service all large Brewery 280m away, and Larnach Castle advantage of the catering options available conference and event delegates to Dunedin.
Planning an event with a difference? Tūhura Otago Community Trust Science Centre offers extreme icebreakers – dare to ride the slide!
To receive our 2018 venues pack, contact our Venues team on: 03 474 7476 [email protected] www.otagomuseum.nz/venues
[38] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 Located just two blocks from the Octagon, our central hotels offer convenient venues that cannot be matched. SCENIC HOTEL DUNEDIN CITY is centrally located and just two blocks from the Octagon presents a contemporary, award winning hospitality and meetings offering that is also a showcase of local art and design. With a dedicated meeting space with a capacity for up to 50 delegates theatre-style, Scenic Hotel Dunedin City is also the venue of choice for executive meetings and special occasions. On site meeting planners make remote planning simple and successful.
SCENIC HOTEL SOUTHERN CROSS is Dunedin’s most established hotel with a long and proud history of hosting visitors from around New Zealand and the world. With flexible meetings spaces across nine rooms, Scenic Hotel Southern Cross can accommodate up to 120 delegates theatre-style and is a favoured venue for seminars conferences, interviews and receptions.
For booking and enquires call 03 474 6013 or visit us online at scenichotelgroup.co.nz [ OTAGO
A Kai Tahu cosmogenic creation story, weaves through the centre, whakapapa, or providing a framework based on both creation story, weaves through the centre science and matauraka Maori to interpret the interactives and explain the natural world from the two different knowledge bases,’ he explains. The whakapapa was provided by renowned Kai Tahu historian Tahu Potiki. ‘The whakapapa sets out the creation of the universe, in accordance with Kai Tahu traditions, which has correlations with how science explains the beginning of the universe’ says curator, Maori, Rachel Wesley. The museum’s new name, Tuhura Otago Something special Community Trust Science Centre, reflects the dual knowledge bases of scientific understanding and Matauranga Maori After four years of planning and Gallery and Perpetual Guardian Planetarium, (Maori knowledge) to explore and explain five months of construction, which were both completed in December 2015 the world we live in. Tuhura Otago Community Trust during stage one of the project. Tuhura is Te Reo Maori, meaning to discover Science Centre opened its Otago Community Trust chief executive or explore, and maintains the whakapapa, or doors last December. Barbara Bridger says the new development connection, back to the original Discovery will strengthen and build upon the science World. It invites visitors to be curious, to engagement work the museum already discover and to explore questions large and The $2.5 million redevelopment of Otago undertakes across Otago and beyond. ‘Tuhura small; about the universe, life and ourselves. Museum’s former Discovery World Tropical Otago Community Trust Science Centre will be ‘The name reflects dual views of the world Forest was supported with $500,000 in something very special for the people of Otago we live in, so whether we as a community funding from the Otago Community Trust. and visitors to our region.’ know the science centre by the name Now home to over 50 new hands-on science Museum director Ian Griffin says the venue ‘Tuhura’ or just as the ‘Science Centre’, it’s interactives and a refreshed Tropical Forest has taken a bicultural approach to explain the inclusive of the different approaches that we butterfly house, Tuhura will also encompass natural world and its forces. as humans take to understand our world and the digitally interactive Beautiful Science ‘A Kai Tahu cosmogenic whakapapa, or our place within it.’
confer in warmth & style at WAINS HOTEL DUNEDIN
our great value pp* Day Delegate Package $50 includes… • a brilliant location • room set up • audio visual equipment • free wifi • lunch, morning & afternoon teas • complimentary parking & accommodation for the organiser
www.cpghotels.com 310 Princes Street , Dunedin 9016, New Zealand phone: +64 3 477 1145 email: [email protected]
*some conditions apply
great events can also be hosted at CPG located hotels… [email protected] Picton, Wellington, Rotorua, Auckland
[40] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 RESIDENTIAL COONFERENCE
OFFER AT SOFITEL WELLINGTON
$299* PER ROOM PER NIGHT
VALID UNTIL 30 SEPTEMBER 2018
Surrounded by lush botanicals and ideally positioned in Wellington’s business and government hub, your event at Sofitel Wellington is guaranteed to elegantly unfold into a truly memorable experience.
• Accommodation in a Superior Room • Buffet breakfast • Day Delegate Package
BOOK AN EVENT AND EARN LE CLUB ACCORHOTELS MEETING PLANNER DOUBLE REWARDS POINTS!**
*Conditions: Valid until 30 September 2018, subject to availability. Not available over special events. Minimum 20 delegates. New bookings only. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with another special offer. **Conditions apply.
CONTACT (04) 472 2502 [email protected] 11 BOLTON ST, WELLINGTON
WELLINGTON [ OPINION Racist New Zealand and our industry’s responsibility By Sam Worthington
Tāmati Wāka Nene Eruera Maihi Patuone
With famed Kiwi director Maori word correctly has influenced how I what is being presented, especially with Taika Waititi shining an identify with my culture for as long as I can the haka. remember, and not in a good way. Basically, we need to take the time to international spotlight on On the world stage however, things are understand and listen, instead of just ‘book- the racism that exists within different. People come from all around the ending’ our events with a traditional opening our country, I thought it was globe to see a pukana in person or watch our and closing and throwing a Kapahaka group important to take a look at war dance, our haka. in to spice things up in Kapahaka groups Basically, we need to take the middle. our events industry, and the are on hand to the time to understand and Yes, when we compare part it plays in abating racism perform at events listen, instead of just ‘book-ending’ our country’s race and engaging Maori culture in and we welcome our events with a traditional relations to Australia or opening and closing and throwing an organic and fair way. important foreign South Africa there are visitors and celebrities a Kapahaka group in to spice things significant differences… I have brown hair, brown eyes and brown with a Powhiri. We up in the middle. and I guess if the skin. I apparently don’t look Maori, probably greet these guests in a esteemed broadcaster Spanish some people guess, or maybe even traditional Maori embrace, a hongi. We cook Duncan Garner says ‘we aren’t as racist as Middle Eastern. But I am. I am a direct them hangi and they visit our marae. that’ then we must be fine. descendent of Ngapuhi rangatira Tamati In this industry we have an important But, nah. Like The Project’s Kanoa Lloyd Waka Nene, and his brother, my great-great- platform that can be used to nurture our pointed out recently, there is no metric scale great-Grandad Eruera Maihi Patuone. I am country’s indigenous heritage. But it needs for racism – we are either racist, or not racist. of both Ngapuhi and Tainui whakapapa. to be done right. In an industry that has a lot of sway, and As an adult this information leaves me in At a CINZ conference last year, I had the a global reach, we have a responsibility to awe. As a child and as a teenager, it left me privilege to hear Karl Wixon of the New honour this privilege. Before your next event embarrassed. Zealand Story speak about ‘brand Maori’ and stop for a moment and ask yourself – could I Growing up part Maori in New Zealand our industry’s ‘dial-a-haka’ mentality. be doing more? wasn’t something I was ever proud of, but Wixon’s words were wise, and powerful. to be honest I never really had the chance He told the audience that we need to move to be. I lived (and still live) in a sea of ‘wife beyond the expected ‘pop-up book’ haka, Love our industry beater’, ‘dole bludger’ hongi, hangi and and ‘free university’ I am of both Ngapuhi and pukana version of commentary? references, where Tainui whakapapa. As an adult this Maori culture that strangers, friends and information leaves me in awe. As a seems to be the default See more industry even family all made child and as a teenager, it left button. insights on our website proud impossible. me embarrassed. He explained that www.meetingnewz.co.nz Society taught me instead of using Maori from a very young age that it was only ‘cool’ for protocol and entertainment only, we to be Maori when the All Blacks did the haka, should get back to the basic principles of or when we got a day off for Waitangi Day. engagement, partnership and co-design. He The laughter and snide comments made by said we should also be mindful of what is my peers whenever someone pronounced a being felt or inferred by the audience by
[42] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 NEWS]
‘Wyndham Garden has been experiencing Wyndham Garden steady growth across South East Asia and we are excited to open our first property under the flag in New Zealand,’ says Barry opens in Queenstown Robinson, president and managing director of international operations, Wyndham Wyndham Hotel Group’s Wyndham Garden brand has debuted Vacation Ownership. in New Zealand and the wider South Pacific region with the Wyndham Garden Queenstown is the opening of a 75-room hotel in Remarkables Park, Queenstown. company’s second hotel in Queenstown, joining Ramada Hotel & Suites Queenstown Artist’s impression Wyndham Remarkables Park, which opened in 2016. Garden Queenstown Both Queenstown hotels are owned and operated by Marsden Asset Management and are among the company’s five Wyndham Hotel Group franchises in New Zealand, alongside properties in Auckland and Christchurch. As the fifth completed collaboration between Wyndham Hotel Group and experienced local developer Safari Group, Wyndham Garden Queenstown follows four Ramada developments in Auckland, Albany, Christchurch and Queenstown. The hotel features complimentary wifi, a gym, meeting space, onsite car parking and a range of rooms and suites complete with kitchen facilities. The new hotel is overseen by management couple Gary Hyde and Karen Barr, who each have more than 16 years’ experience in hospitality.
Meeting Newz 190 x 129mm .pdf 1 10/4/18 11:57
17 - 19 October 2018, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore
C
M
Y
CM
MY
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CMY
K Exhibitors from 22,000 Business 940 Quality Buyers More than 11,000 6,140 Minutes Guranteed 1 : 1 Ratio 951 Appointments over 110 Countries Attendees of Conference for Buyers & Exhibitors
For more information, visit www.itb-asia.com Tel: +65 6635 1188 | Email: [email protected]
Supported by: Held in: Official Partner Hotel: Organised by:
meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 [43] [ QUEENSTOWN FAMIL
Queenstown Remarkable Remarkable famil Famil - group shot showcases Queenstown
Queenstown’s chops as a conference and incentive destination were on show in May as the Queenstown Convention Bureau hosted Skyline Gondola, and the wineries of Central 19 New Zealand buyers and Otago sub-region Gibbston. PCOs on a four-day famil. Queenstown’s event and conference venues were also on show, from boutique The Winehouse in Gibbston, to Moonlight There was a focus on team-building Country and Glenorchy’s new Camp experiences with The Playground Glenorchy, New Zealand’s first Net Zero Queenstown, including human Foosball, energy range of visitor accommodation and Zorbing and a combination of archery event spaces. and paintball - archery combat. Next it The group also took part in a half-day was trampolining, bungy jumping and tradeshow, meeting with a range of 37 buggying, surrounded by the rugged beauty operators to really round out the breadth of the region. of experiences and services available to Delegates stayed at a range of create a memorable conference, meeting accommodation and sampled some of or rewarding incentive experience in Nikki Wright, Federated Farmers the destination’s iconic and sightseeing Queenstown, followed by a cocktail function NZ; Rushaina Variava, Auckland University; Samm Kent, TNZ BE team experiences—including the TSS Earnslaw, to network and relax.
Nicky Remkes, Tom, Dick and Harry; Rach Michaels; Lime and Soda; Simon Coxhead, cievents; Trish Bowell, Karen Olver, Seafood NZ; Nick Avenues Event Management; Rachel Hill, Pure Black NZ Cook, Conference Innovators
[44] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 INDUSTRY UPDATE]
At a recent function hosted by Horwath HTL… Greg Remmington, manager at Castle Resorts and Hotels, Stu’ed up with Stephen Hamilton, director Horwath HTL.
Stu Freeman Publisher Thirty year itch
Some time late 1988 I first encountered a trade magazine by the name of Meeting Newz. NZ hotel projects on table I didn’t like the ‘z’ that replaced the ‘s’ then and I still don’t really – but it distinguished the – but who will build them title from other international publications and I have sort of got used to it. Much needed new hotel inventory in New Zealand is being held My role as editor on the magazine happened back by commercial issues around their construction. This is by accident, when the incumbent decided despite investors and developers keen to take advantage of she wanted to move on and I was in the Universal Press building in Mt Eden looking favourable business conditions, according to one of the country’s for something to do. leading hospitality and tourism industry consultants. I got paid (from memory) $1800 an issue to put 24 pages together and stuck with the ‘The issue is that we are really Hamilton’s comments come a few weeks magazine when it was sold (over my head I struggling to get projects across the line after Fletcher Building’s woes began to be must add) to first Minty’s Media and then Jasons and built,’ says Stephen Hamilton, director highly publicised in the media. Travel Media. Over the 30-year association with at Horwath HTL. He says there is a need for more hotels Meeting Newz I have always been either editor, ‘We are seeing the interest to invest and the room rates for hoteliers are getting publisher or owner – sometimes a combination and we’ve got the projects but people better. But that is only part of the picture. of two or three of the roles. I have leased and/ are struggling to get the construction ‘While room rates are rising strongly or owned the title outright for close to 20 years contracts signed and the construction in the main centres, operating costs and along with my partner (life and business) Trish. companies engaged. construction rates are going up as well, as Obviously the success of the magazine has ‘We are dealing with commercial are land prices. Building code requirements come down to the other people who have been issues in terms of the construction have tightened up too. involved – some like Annette McGrevy in sales and the allocation of risk between the ‘So we have challenges in the feasibility for longer than she may care to be reminded, owners / developers and the construction model – they are just different to what they along with names like Aleisha Moore, Ashliegh companies.’ have been in the past.’ Gilchrist (both editors), current editor Shannon Williams, and sales manager of five years Heather Lowrie. The longest serving graphic artist on the job, Gary Covich, is still with the REBRAND FOR GLOBAL magazine. A number of assistant editors (longest serving Ruth Scott), accounts people, and correspondents (Kathy Ombler in Wellington SPORTS & EVENTS particularly) have been or still are involved. ‘It also now closely aligns us with our This brief trip down memory lane does have Global Sports & Events partner, Fortis Travel. As a group, we now a purpose. While my name (even a column has rebranded to have a strong offering of business, leisure, or two) may pop up in future issues, this is incentive and group travel all under the last edition in which I will hold any sort Fortis Events. one brand.’ of executive or management position. The Managing director Joelle Talbot says the Fortis Events will continue to offer tours magazine now passes onto new owners – change in brand reflects the significant to key sporting events including Formula industry personalities who I know well and growth over the past year in corporate One, World Rugby Sevens, the Melbourne who I totally trust in taking the magazine and incentive management. Cup, Australian Open and US sports like associated products to a new level. ‘When GSE was launched in September NBA, MLB and NHL. The new website is Thanks to all the advertisers, readers, critics 2016, the focus was primarily sports tours. www.fortisevents.co.nz and enthusiasts I have enjoyed meeting (and The incentive business has grown rapidly The Fortis Travel Group is also an photographing with a drink in their hands) over and driven our decision to change the Authorised Rugby World Cup Japan Sub- the years. As the saying goes – see ya around. brand to have more of a corporate focus. Agent of All Blacks Tours.
meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 [45] [ NEWS Hotel conference focusing on regional growth Grant Webster, Tourism Sally Attfield, TIA hotel Holdings chief executive sector manager
Registrations are open for the New Zealand Hotel Industry Conference, which takes place in Auckland on 4-5 July.
The conference is the largest annual Sally Attfield says. Horwath HTL director Stephen Hamilton event dedicated to New Zealand’s hotel Confirmed speakers include Air New says it’s imperative that the economic sector, and is co-hosted by Tourism Industry Zealand chief executive Christopher Luxon, benefits of the tourism boom are shared with Aotearoa and Horwath HTL. It is attended Tourism Holdings chief executive Grant regional New Zealand. by managers and stakeholders in the New Webster and Westpac chief economist ‘Tourism supports businesses and jobs Zealand hotel sector. Last year’s conference Dominick Stephens. across the country, often in regions where few attracted over 350 delegates, including High calibre speakers will also be looking other opportunities exist. The hotel sector, hotel managers, investors, developers, hotel at how convention centres fit into regional in particular, offers a huge range of career chains, government agencies, hotel industry tourism strategies, and the challenges of prospects, and requirements for suppliers and consultants, sponsors and exhibitors. finding good staff in less populated areas. support services,’ he says. ‘The programme is focusing strongly on The regional focus continues into the New The New Zealand Hotel Industry Conference how we can encourage more growth in the Zealand Hotel Industry Awards 2018 with a takes place over two days, with Wednesday regions. It’s about attracting high value new award this year – Regional Employee 4 July devoted to the hotel, technology and visitors to spend more time and money of the Year – which will be awarded to the property forums. These sessions are designed off the beaten track, which in turn makes best operational employee working in a for delegates to learn about operational, regional hotel developments more attractive hotel not located in Auckland, Christchurch, technology, performance and investment to investors,’ TIA hotel sector manager Wellington or Queenstown. topics for the hotel industry.
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[46] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 NEWS]
New aviation facility takes off GCH Aviation airside Christchurch Airport
A new era in New Zealand Island’s rapidly growing corporate aviation ships manager, Caroline Blanchfield says aviation has begun, with the market and is the centre for commercial, GCH Aviation puts the region on the world official opening of a $23m air flight training and tourism operations for stage as a luxury, high-end destination. ambulance, air rescue and GCH Aviation. ‘Business and luxury travellers into the GCH Aviation chief executive Andrew South Island now have fast, private secure tourism aviation facility at Currie says the new air centre is an absolute entry and exit options using GCH’s facility. Christchurch Airport. game-changer for Canterbury and the Currently around 50 international corporate The new facility is owned and operated by South Island. jets arrive into Christchurch Airport New Zealand’s GCH (Garden City Helicopters) ‘Our new centralised air ambulance and annually,’ she says. Aviation Limited. Westpac Rescue Helicopter base will benefit The facility took two years to build, has The multi-purpose facility is the one of the entire community and boost high-value direct runway access at Christchurch Airport the largest of its kind in Australasia and is business and tourism to the region. and easy vehicle access from Grays Road to the home of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter ‘The new building also enables the Christchurch city and State Highway 1. and New Zealand Flying Doctor Service. company to continue to expand its business Currie says the opening marks 35 years The 9,000 square metre complex has direct and provides a head office for our other of operations for the team, which his father runway access and a dedicated helipad. operations throughout New Zealand and the John Currie began in the early 1980s and has It also includes Christchurch’s first full- Pacific,’ he says. now expanded to six bases with over 120 service reception gateway for the South ChristchurchNZ Tourism industry partner- staff across New Zealand and the Pacific.
meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 [47] [ NEWS
Queenstown Park Expansion for Boutique Hotel Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel is adding three new rooms which will all feature views of The Remarkables mountain range. They will be styled in a similar fashion has been completed, the hotel will partially to the existing premier Remarkables rooms, re-open in early July for guests staying in but will feature individual gas fireplaces, an the ‘Gondola’ rooms, on the other side of open balcony and views over Queenstown the hotel. Recreational Ground to The Remarkables. The added rooms, which will be known as They will be built on top of the existing Remarkables Junior Suites, are expected to Remarkables Rooms. open late August and the existing ‘Remarkables’ ‘The three additional rooms will keep rooms will re-open at the same time. with the contemporary styling and use the same materials as the existing building’, New management structure says architect Chris Wilson. ‘The second floor addition is set back from the edge of To coincide with this expansion one of the existing building to create balconies off the Patterson Brothers (owners) – Ken – the new rooms. This will allow guests to step will relocate to Queenstown to become outside and admire the views.’ more actively involved in managing both The new rooms will cover 50sqm and bring the Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel and the total number of rooms available to 23. the family’s other Queenstown business, The expansion represents an investment of Touchdown Car Rentals. $2 million. Current Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel general manager, Karen Henry will depart Temporary closure after five and half years at the hotel. ‘We are grateful to Karen who has led The Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel will the team for more than five years. She temporarily close from 23 April to allow has an impeccable eye for detail which has construction work to proceed without any been evident in the outstanding feedback risk of guest disruption. from our guests and trade partners,’ says After the majority of the building work Michael Patterson.
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
[48] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 NEWS]
New-look Aotea Centre set to inspire
The Aotea Centre’s steel interlocking plates over new stone levels. New foyers will provide enhanced panels, and glass balustrades. exhibition space, and a refresh of all the redevelopment is Environmentally friendly upgrades include convention spaces will complement the underway, with an inviting green roof space with natural recently refurbished 2000-seat auditorium. vegetation which will provide additional The refurbishment will also include a new distinctive external areas for delegate breaks and sophisticated new bar areas for delegates to exterior currently in hostings. Inside the venue, a floor-to-ceiling meet and network. the works. glass entryway and the atrium artwork means ‘We’re delighted to be able to invest in delegates will experience a bright welcome. this landmark venue to create engaging Fresh lighting, and modern floor and wall experiences for our clients and delegates,’ A comprehensive internal refurbishment treatments will create a vibrant ambience, says Gecan. ‘We look forward to unveiling will begin in October, and both internal with digital wayfinding provided on all our upgraded centre in March next year.’ and external refurbishments are due for completion in March 2019. According to Marija Gecan, general Celebrity Speakers: let’s talk about mental health manager, sales - Auckland Conventions The number of enquiries for mental proving there is a way forward. Venues & Events, the refurbishment will healths speakers has risen ‘astronomically’, ‘Just like so many New Zealanders, create a contemporary, modern venue to according to Celebrity Speakers. some of our speakers have battled with welcome and inspire local and international ‘As the rise of awareness for mental mental health themselves and having visitors. health increases, the taboo fades. Talking had first-hand experience are joining the ‘We look forward to offering a fresh, about and educating our staff and fight and speaking up. sophisticated and vibrant venue. The Aotea communities about mental health is our ‘We have speakers who can talk about Centre will be transformed inside and out, best weapon against it,’ its says. depression, suicide, post-traumatic stress, providing an upmarket environment, the ‘Celebrity Speakers want to be as dealing with and processing stress, grief latest technology and systems, and the ability real as we can about the importance of and trauma.’ to cater for a wide variety of functions and mental health. We applaud companies Speakers include Mike King, Sian events,’ she says. that proactively pull these issues to Simpson, Dion Jensen, Kathryn Berkett, The exterior of the venue will be the surface, shifting social stigmas and Dr Tom Mulholland and Lance Burdett. modernised, with features including stainless
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meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 [49] [ NEWS Getting into gear The new Lower Hutt Events Centre, due to open mid-2018, is already attracting plenty of interest with confirmed bookings for conferences, exhibitions and banquets for 500+ people. Artist’s impression Lower Hutt Events Centre
The combined Town Hall and Events ‘We are filling a gap in the Wellington good access and the centre has the three- Centre will deliver modern, flexible market for a multi-purpose function centre. hectare Riddiford Garden in its backyard.’ facilities for events including conferences, Prior to this, Lower Hutt hasn’t had the Grocott says interest from the local performances and multi-day exhibitions. ability to host a wide variety of events and community is already strong with enquiries With the appointment of an executive chef, the events centre is going to bring hundreds about cultural festivals, weddings and the centre is getting into gear to cater for a of people at a time into the city,’ says Dean Christmas functions. Several national events range of events including banquets, trade Grocott, Hutt City Council commercial are also booked, which will deliver flow- breakfasts and national conferences, which events developer. on effects to accommodation providers, will include dinners and cocktails. ‘We’re 15 minutes from Wellington, have restaurants and retailers in Lower Hutt. Stuart Hartley Have you got event insurance? Cancellation, abandonment, postponement, interruption, curtailment or relocation of an event are real challenges facing event organisers.
Stuart Hartley, underwriting manager for access to bespoke insurance coverage at an EventCover, says the inclusion of insurance affordable price as well as providing thought should be an essential part of any conference leadership in respect of risk management and or event organiser’s service. transfer,’ he says. ‘Insurance is often seen as a necessary Hartley says EventCover provides coverage evil and overlooked or referred to as an for all events, from a local carnival to unnecessary expense. international exhibitions and sporting ‘Sometimes the unexpected happens, events. It also has a specific conference and which is often outside of your control and exhibition product. leads to the cancellation of your event,’ ‘We understand the complexities of he explains. conferences and exhibitions and have Hartley says EventCover was born out developed a product to suit. In addition to of the necessity to have an insurer on the the standard event cancellation features, the ground in New Zealand who fully understood product is extended to include a number of and was ingrained in the New Zealand valuable enhancements such as failure to events industry. vacate the premises, requisition of the venue ‘We are perfectly placed to provide and additional costs and charges.
[50] meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 CINZ COLUMN]
is always a great indication of success, we professional conference organisers (PCOs) could site the recent MBIE CDS data that to present a Masterclass at MEETINGS 2018, supported the growth of 17 per cent from to guide them through working with our the international markets in the calendar culture and provide examples of what can year 2017. Another indicator is the difficulty be done to integrate this into a conference in securing venues in the short to medium in a meaningful way. The recent World term. I continue to hear that the industry Indigenous Tourism Summit was managed is in good health. Along with good health by such a PCO, Conference Innovators. comes healthy competition, and we are At MEETINGS Karl will also speak to the being watched. media on the initiatives already underway, Our friends in Australia are working hard and the opportunities that exist for to secure lucrative international events that Maori product within the business events may be looking to rotate here or into Asia. environment and mainstream tourism. This Australians have financial resources that year we will see the Northland region return we can only dream about. This is driving to MEETINGS with Foot Prints Waipoua New Zealand-based operators and bureaux and Waitangi Treaty Grounds exhibiting, to think differently. Part of thinking sharing their story and looking to build on differently is looking at what we have that relationships to grow and strengthen their can set us apart and our Maori culture can business within the Te Tai Tokerau region. By Sue Sullivan do that. This is a real opportunity. Here at CINZ we speak regularly of With this opportunity comes a challenge. Kaitiakitanga – the guardianship and Chief executive When we present our culture to the world, protection of our natural, built and cultural Conventions & Incentives we need to do so in a way that we, along with resources for the benefit of current and New Zealand (CINZ) our international visitors are comfortable, future generations, Manaakitanga – and ensure that we, as an industry, are showing respect, hospitality, generosity respectful. Here at CINZ we have worked with and care for others, and Whanaungatanga Ngahi Bidois as our cultural ambassador for – a relationship through shared experiences several years in this area and we continue to and working together which provides people New Zealand’s develop this relationship. with a sense of belonging. At the recent CINZ Conference in Dunedin, These three values are part of the work Karl Wixon shared with us the work that done by TIA on launching the Tourism Maori culture has been done by New Zealand Story on Sustainability Commitment in 2017, which Maori Culture and Business. He told us we circles nicely back to a key point from the sets us apart are evolving beyond haka, hongi and hangi, Larrakia Declaration - building bridges of that our Maori businesses are strong, and we partnership and cooperation between the need now to move into the stories that are tourism industry and indigenous peoples. rich in culture and offer something that no This will allow us as an industry to continue Kia ora other country can. to find success, remain competitive in a very I have read with interest in a number As part of the work that CINZ is doing competitive environment, and stand out of industry and non-industry publications on this journey, we have Karl working with from the crowd. about the success of the World Indigenous Tourism Summit held in April in the Bay of Islands, which was opened at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. The work done by NZ Maori Tourism and the World Indigenous Tourism Alliance to bring this to New Love our industry Zealand was significant. It builds on the previous Pacific Asia Indigenous Tourism commentary? Conference (PAITC) held in Darwin in 2012 and the Larrakia Declaration signed there. One of the key points from the Larrakia See more industry insights Declaration is that it advocates building bridges of partnership and cooperation on our website between the tourism industry and www.meetingnewz.co.nz indigenous peoples. The timing of the summit is impeccable for a number of reasons. Our industry is in growth, we remain on the crest of the wave with increasing demand from our international markets to hold business events here in Aotearoa New Zealand. Data
meetingnewz [mayjune] 2018 [51] CALLING ALL
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