The two-day show, which attracted conference, incentive and event planners from New Zealand and Australia, provided a key opportunity to promote Taupō venues, accommodation and visitor experiences. It brought together 18 regions and 701 exhibitors across 223 stands, and more than 120 hosted buyers from Australia and international markets.
“Business events play an important role in our visitor economy, attracting high-value visitors who come to town for several days at a time, supporting local businesses throughout the district,” says Love Taupō General Manager Patrick Dault.
“MEETINGS gives us the chance to build relationships with decision-makers and demonstrate why Taupō is an outstanding choice for future events, from our world-class facilities to the unique experiences available across the region.”
Taupo benefited from a strong regional representation at the event. DGTL attended in partnership with local tourism operators including Suncourt Hotel and Conference Centre, Tauhara North No.2 Trust, the Guest Edit, Chris Jolly Outdoors and the Great Lake Centre.
“Attending MEETINGS 2026 was an epiphany. The number of people we met reinforced the growing desire to get back into the regions and out of the cities. There is a clear double opportunity for Taupō, both in small conferences and incentives. The activities, food, retail and natural environment are undeniably attractive, and visitors are seeking exactly what Taupō has to offer,” says Chrissy Simmen, General Manager of Suncourt Hotel and Conference Centre.
The region also had a strong national representation from Ngāi Tahu Tourism, Hilton Hotels, Millennium Hotels, Accor Hotels and Quest Hotels.
Additionally, the Taupo collective represented the region with an additional seven operators, Wairakei Resort Taupō, Tongariro Lodge, Taupō Sailing Adventures, Tongariro River Rafting, Huka Falls Jet, Taupō International Motorsport Park, and Get Set Event Hire attending alongside DGLT, showcasing the diverse range of venues, experiences and services available across the region.
“The atmosphere was fantastic, with a real sense of energy, collaboration and positive feedback throughout the event. There was strong interest in Taupō and clear potential for the regions, particularly from the Australian market. While Auckland and Queenstown have been popular in recent years, the conversations at MEETINGS 2026 suggest that interest is now shifting towards regional destinations,” says Jade Bolstad, General Manager of Wairakei Resort.
The business events sector continues to gain momentum, with increased interest in New Zealand as a destination for conferences and incentives. The conversations and connections made at MEETINGS 2026 are expected to generate future opportunities for Taupō, supporting local accommodation providers, venues, hospitality businesses and tourism operators while contributing to the district’s year-round visitor economy.
“Business events remain the best opportunity for Taupō to build on off-peak visitation and create economic vibrancy during the shoulder season,” concludes Dault.
