A one-day conference exploring the wider tourism landscape in Aotearoa New Zealand and highlighting the importance of regional collaboration within the visitor economy.
This programme brings together national leaders, industry experts, and regional voices to share insights, strategies, and practical ideas shaping the future of tourism in Taupō.
| Attendees Registration Opens | 1 May 2026 |
| Programme Launch at Q2 industry update | 4 June 2026 |
| Attendees Registration Closes | 13 August 2026 |
| Taupō Tourism Summit | 20 August 2026 |
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8:30-8:55 |
Registration & Tea/Coffee |
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8:55-9:00 |
House keeping |
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9:00-9:10 |
Mihi Whakatau |
Minister Hon. Louise Upston |
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9:25-9:50 |
Update from Tourism New Zealand
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Sam Allen, Global Manager, Industry & Product Marketing, Tourism New Zealand |
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9:50-10:15 |
Working with regions for success
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Iain Walker - General Manager - Regional, Air New Zealand
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10:15-10:30 |
Connecting the Central North Island
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Michelle Nordemeer, Group General Manager – Aeronautical Growth & Marketing, Hamilton Airport
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10:30-10:45 |
Strengthening Tourism & Hospitality in Taupō
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Kristy Phillips, CEO, Hospitality New Zealand
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10:45-11:15 |
Morning Break: Regional Food Showcase 1 |
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Concurrent Morning Sessions |
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11:15-11:45 |
Session 1: Canopy Tours -From sustainability Journey to national recognition – what does it mean for your brand Paul Button, RCT Group |
Session 2: Emerging Markets
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Session 3: Reclaiming the title of adventure capital of the North Island. Eve Lawrence, GM Sales, Stray |
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11:55-12:25 |
Session 1: Canopy Tours -From sustainability Journey to national recognition – what does it mean for your brand Paul Button, RCT Group |
Session 2: Emerging Markets
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Session 3: Reclaiming the title of adventure capital of the North Island. Eve Lawrence, GM Sales, Stray |
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12:35-12:55 |
Destination Great Lake Taupō Update
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Patrick Dault, General Manager, Destination Great Lake Taupō |
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12:55–13:50 |
Lunch Break - Regional Food Showcase 2 |
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Concurrent Afternoon Sessions |
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13:50-14:30
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Session 4: AI – Leveraging AI for success |
Session 5: Developing an OTA Strategy : Tripadvisor
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Session 6: Social Media & Storytelling Noora Tuikkanen Shona Cobham |
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14:40-15:20 |
Session 4: AI – Leveraging AI for success |
Session 5: Developing an OTA Strategy : Tripadvisor
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Session 6: Social Media & Storytelling |
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15:25-15:35 |
Closing Remarks
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Patrick Dault, General Manager, Destination Great Lake Taupō |
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