MEETINGS 2020 postponed as EVANZ stands alongside industry association colleagues

Conventions and Incentives New Zealand (CINZ) has announced the postponement of New Zealand’s annual business events industry trade show MEETINGS, which was due to take place in Auckland next month.

CINZ Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins says following announcements from the New Zealand Government on measures to prevent the risk of further Coronavirus infection, the event would not go ahead as planned.

Hopkins stated “it is with huge regret we must postpone this year’s MEETINGS which was scheduled for 22 and 23 April at the ASB Showgrounds.

“We have sought the advice of our industry and clients and have been heartened by the huge level of support for MEETINGS, which last year secured over NZ$62 million in new business. However, we have been given a clear mandate to postpone this year’s event.

“The CINZ team and our partners are now working to evaluate other options for MEETINGS, and we will announce these plans as soon as we can.

“As the official voice of the Business Events sector in New Zealand, the CINZ role is now to advocate for the power of business events to aid economic recovery. We have set up direct dialogue with the Government regarding the specific impacts of COVID-19 on the business events sector.”

Coinciding with the postponement of MEETINGS 2020, the Entertainment Venues Association of New Zealand (EVANZ) has advised of its support and advocacy for its members as well as other industry bodies during what it calls the “unprecedented situation” caused by Coronavirus prevention measures.

In a communication to members, EVANZ Chairman, Keith Parker wrote “the COVID-19 pandemic and world response to it is fast moving.

“Following the (New Zealand) Government's introduction of strict travel restrictions we're also anticipating an imminent announcement from the Prime Minister placing restrictions around mass gatherings and major events.

“Whilst following the advice of the Government and the Ministry of Health, we are also mindful of the impact this will have on our industry. Rest assured EVANZ is representing the interests of our members - both venues and associated services - at the highest level, ensuring that our voice is heard.

“There are two things you can do to help us. Firstly, if you haven't already done so, make sure you send us information on major events planned over the next six months. Secondly, our colleagues at NZEA (New Zealand Events Association) are requesting information via an Industry Impact Survey and I would ask you to contribute to that as well.

“Whilst we might not yet know where this journey will take us, we're all in it together and you can be assured that EVANZ will continue to advocate on your behalf.”

EVANZ has also advised that its Mid-Year Symposium in Invercargill, schedlued for 4th and 5th May, will not go ahead this year.

Information on major events coming up in the next six months can be sent to gm@evanz.co.nz

Click here to take the NZEA survey.

Images: MEETINGS 2019 at Auckland’s ASB Showgrounds (top) and Keith Parker (below).