MEETINGS 2010 Writes the Business
Auckland, 29 June 2010 – Buyers left their pencils at home and instead brought their pens to MEETINGS 2010, writing some strong business during
the two day show.
The annual event at Auckland's SKYCITY Convention Centre reveled in positivity, boosted by a strengthening economy and
record number of hosted and day buyers and exhibitors. Feedback about the overall quality of the buyers was very
positive.
Exhibitor Elizabeth Eden, General Manager Huka Falls Resort, Taupo says "I have been attending MEETINGS for a few years
now and I found the quality of buyers really stood out this year. Quite a few people asked us for quotes on specific
events which has been fabulous, we haven’t really had that in previous years. “It's been a great couple of days. It’s
nice to catch up with old contacts and make new ones too."
Leonie Ashford, Christchurch and Canterbury Convention Bureau Manager echoes the positive buyer feedback.
“We are just so impressed with the buyers this year. We noticed a lot of day buyers and everyone has been genuinely
interested. This year there has been much more certainty with bookings. There has been a lot of potential business
generated," she says. “It makes me really pleased to see all of our exhibitors so happy."
MEETINGS 2010 had 168 exhibiting companies, 184 stands, 164 New Zealand and Australian hosted buyers, 10 from North
America, 3 from Japan and 9 from China.
And the buyers were equally impressed with the exhibitors. Justine Jones, Director of Sydney based Errol Jones
Productions says “MEETINGS is an extremely well organised event. The quality of the buyers is very high, the
appointments are efficient and the catering is amazing. They really value the time that we take to attend."
According to Ricardo King, Pan Pacific Travel Corporation it's a very well oiled machine. "I only have good things to
say about MEETINGS. As buyers we are so well looked after and we are all really impressed with the quality of
exhibitors.
“Right from the registration through to the event it has all been so simple and easy to work with. Our company has long
established relationships with many of the exhibitors so it’s great to catch up with them. It’s also good to learn about
new products and be inspired for how we deliver our conference and incentive events."
MEETINGS 2011 is back in Christchurch on June 22 and 23 after a three year break, and is being welcomed with enthusiasm.
Ms Ashford says she is delighted that MEETINGS is returning to Christchurch as there has been many exciting new
developments in the city since 2008 when the region last hosted the expo.
“There’s been a lot of investment in the city’s infrastructure ahead of the Rugby World Cup. We’ve got a revitalised
central city, an expanded airport, new hotels and plans afoot to double the size of our convention centre.
“As a city and a region we’re moving forward at a very fast pace and at MEETINGS 2011 we will be showcasing Canterbury’s
growing conferencing prowess with a wide range of venues, extraordinary activities and attractions, pre and post touring
options and high level incentive products.
“We’re going to pull out all the stops to ensure that the buyers and exhibitors have an unforgettable experience and
that they leave in no doubt that Christchurch city and its surrounding region of Canterbury offer exceptional hosting in
a premier destination," she says.
"We know that, as always, the people of Canterbury will embrace this chance to show off the heart of the south and
extend a warm, friendly welcome to all those involved with MEETINGS 2011."
ENDS