A Look Inside the New Auckland International Convention Centre
Credit: Tataki Auckland Unlimited
Auckland's skyline has a new centrepiece, and it's impressive. The New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) represents a fresh chapter for the city's events and hospitality scene. After years of planning, construction, and anticipation, this state-of-the-art facility is ready to put Auckland firmly on the map as a world-class destination for conferences, conventions, and major events. Join us as we explore what this new icon has to offer!
Why Was NZICC Developed?
Tourist attraction status aside, the new NZICC is all about filling a gap that was costing New Zealand big time. Back in 2012, while over 11,000 international association conferences were happening around the world, New Zealand managed to host just 45 of them. The reason? We simply didn't have the facilities to handle the larger conferences that bring in 1,000+ delegates.
This meant Auckland was watching lucrative events head straight to competitors like Australia, along with all the economic benefits that come with them. We're talking about serious money here—international business event attendees typically spend about 40% more per night than your average tourist.
The new NZICC changes all that. It's designed to attract an estimated 33,000 new international visitors to Auckland each year, injecting around $90 million annually into the local economy. Rather than being an afterthought destination, Auckland can now compete head-to-head with major international cities for those game-changing conferences that put cities on the global map.
Credit: Tataki Auckland Unlimited
What Makes the New NZICC a Game‑Changer for Events?
The new building has been designed with flexibility and functionality at its core. According to the venue's specifications, the NZICC features configurable spaces that can accommodate everything from intimate meetings for 20 people all the way up to international conferences and even concerts!
The venue's design focuses on creating seamless experiences for attendees. As outlined by the NZICC, the facility offers "fast and effortless transitions between meetings, exhibitions, pre-function, banquet, and performance spaces." With the addition of the impressive airbridge, visitors can move between different elements of their event, and connected buildings with ease.
One of the standout features is the venue's diverse, and highly customisable spaces. These include:
- An Exhibition Hall with 8,120 m² of divisible, multipurpose space. Able to accommodate 400 exhibition booths, it can also be split into three separate halls with easy street access and high ceilings for logistical ease.
- 33 meeting and breakout spaces, with two large welcoming galleries that can be configured to suit multiple events.
- A theatre space that can host up to 2,850 people, or two separate 1,200-person events concurrently.
As far as capturing New Zealand’s unique character, the building itself features large-scale artworks adorning its exterior and menus that champion local produce. The glazed facade provides visitors with views of Auckland's natural beauty, from the Waitākere Ranges to the Waitematā Harbour, creating an amazing backdrop for any event.
What Events Will the NZICC Host?
With the official opening still months away, the event calendar is still being developed. However, according to the projections we mentioned earlier, the numbers suggest the venue will host substantial conferences and events that draw participants from around the world.
The venue's proximity to Auckland's innovation ecosystem, including universities and major business headquarters, makes it particularly attractive for industry conferences that want to tap into New Zealand's leading knowledge centres.
For the most current information on events and bookings as the opening approaches, visit the official NZICC website, where new announcements will be made as the venue prepares for its February 2026 launch.
Where to Stay When Attending an Event at ICC Auckland?
The NZICC's position in the heart of Auckland's CBD means guests staying at The Chancellor on Hobson will be perfectly positioned to make the most of their conference experience.
With over key dining precincts, shopping, and entertainment spots all within 10 minutes' walking distance of the venue, our hotel offers easy access not just to the convention centre but to everything Auckland's CBD has to offer.
Furthermore, the integrated atrium and public laneway at the NZICC are designed to encourage networking and enhance the delegate experience. Staying at Chancellor on Hobson means you can easily return to comfortable accommodation between sessions, whether you're attending multi-day conferences or single events that run late into the evening.
Book Your Stay and Experience Auckland ICC Firsthand
Credit: Tataki Auckland Unlimited
The Chancellor on Hobson offers comfortable accommodation with modern amenities that help you recharge between conference sessions. The hotel features spacious rooms with quality bedding, ensuring you get proper rest, whilst work desks and reliable wifi keep you connected for any conference-related tasks or follow-up communications.
As Auckland prepares to welcome the world to its impressive new culture and innovation hub, book your stay at Chancellor on Hobson and ensure you're ready for whatever brings you to this transformational new venue.