This year's theme is "Cultivating Success: Making the Most of Those Green Shoots."
The annual BYATA Conference is widely regarded as one of New Zealand's premier tourism events, and our 15th conference promises to be our strongest yet. True to our commitment to regional NZ, we are excited to bring the conference to the vibrant coastal city of Tauranga, located in the sun-soaked Bay of Plenty, one of Aotearoa's most popular destinations for visitors and locals alike. It will showcase the region's warm hospitality and signature "makes you smile" energy.
The BYATA Conference creates a great opportunity to engage with the industry that represents the youth and adventure sector of the market. This market is responsible for only 25% of arrivals but provides 35% of the international spend, making this sector hugely important to New Zealand tourism. There is a strong tourism outlook for 2026, where confidence is high within the industry and businesses are now looking to expand and further develop their growth strategy.
You'll be in good company. Delegates typically include some of New Zealand's leading tourism brands alongside innovative small businesses from across the motu. With over 100 delegates from around 80 organisations, the conference offers rich opportunities to connect, network, learn from peers, and contribute to one of New Zealand's most important tourism sectors.
This year's theme is "Cultivating Success: Making the Most of Those Green Shoots."
As most markets rebound towards full potential, we will focus on how businesses, communities, and especially the youth tourism sector can turn early signs of growth into long-term success.
Cultivating success means:
- Knowing what the green shoots are and how to capitalise on them
- Targeting markets and customers that genuinely align with your business model and community.
- Building teams that can deliver consistently and productively through peaks and troughs.
- How to avoid the “ick” when targeting youth / adventure travellers with B2C tools
- Distinguishing promising opportunities from distractions that drain time and resources.
- Collaborating and sharing both wins and failures so the whole sector lifts.
- Understanding your place in the wider tourism system and using it to your advantage.
Industry leaders, growth specialists, and compelling storytellers will share practical insights designed to challenge, stretch, and energise delegates. You will leave with a clear to-do list, fresh motivation, and new connections to help you act on your ideas.
However, It’s not all work and no play. There will be chances to experience the best of the Bay of Plenty, and we fully intend to uphold our reputation for delivering the country’s most enjoyable conference functions. Situated along the beautiful eastern coastline of the North Island, Tauranga is renowned for its iconic Mount Maunganui, stunning harbour, thriving food scene, and warm Bay of Plenty hospitality.
| Location: | The Cargo Shed (5 Dive Crescent, Tauranga 3110, New Zealand) |
| Date: | 17-18 August 2026 |
| Cost: |
Early bird:
BYATA Member: $565 + GST
Non Member: $695 + GST Additional Delegates: $445 + GST
Standard Pricing (from 1 June 2026): Individual: $645 + GST
Additional Delegates: $565 + GST |
