Introduction

The TECNZ Trade Event connects New Zealand travel product suppliers with the travel planners and product managers of inbound travel wholesalers and destination management companies. Based in New Zealand and in Australia, these personnel are responsible for the majority of the countries inbound visitor market from the travel trade.

Taking place in the prestigious Viaduct Events Centre on Auckland’s waterfront, participants get an exceptional opportunity to form and maintain deep connections with the specialists most relevant to their business throughpre-scheduled appointments that serve their respective interests. 

Following on from the inaugural event in 2025, the TECNZ Trade Event is exclusive to Members and aims to provide an extraordinary platform to:

• Educate key valuable inbound partners at an operational level
• Strengthen commercial relationships even further
• Connect with important individuals in the travel trade distribution channel

The programme allows time for engaging in networking which results in a compelling return on investment.

Message from TECNZ CEO, Lynda Keene, and Board Chair, Scott Mehrtens

On behalf of the Board of Tourism Export Council of New Zealand (TECNZ) we’re delighted to launch the 2026 TECNZ Trade Event that will bring together leading tourism businesses in the industry.

This event is now a priority fixture in travel trade calendars as the leading New Zealand Buyer (ITO) and Seller (Supplier) event. It is the largest and most comprehensive opportunity under one roof for NZ travel designers to learn about your product and experience to be included in international travel itineraries with offshore travel sellers. Allied members can update and launch new products and experiences to Inbound members, attract forward bookings, gain insights on market performance and capitalize on new business opportunities. The event serves as a platform for fostering new connections, showcasing innovative solutions, and driving meaningful collaborations.

Following feedback from the 2025 event there are some enhancements to further adding value for Sellers’ investment.

• Seller space is limited to TECNZ Members only
• Buyers will be encouraged to have one person per appointment stream
• There will be no limit to the number of hosted buyers attending from throughout NZ in 2026
• Technology will allow for an upgraded appointment diary process that both Buyers and Sellers can each prioritise meeting preferences to best meet objectives
• Retail and wholesale travel agents will be invited (and subsidised) from Australia
• A new Seller registration package is available offering multinationals to purchase multiple appointment streams for individual sub-brands (upon request)
• RTOs won’t have appointment streams in 2026, however are invited to attend. RTOs will have a table and can network plus meet with Buyers in a drop by basis when the Buyers are free, and can promote your region’s products and experiences

We are committed to making the TECNZ Trade Event an unparalleled experience, and we look forward to welcoming you. Your participation will be invaluable in ensuring the success of the event.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to the tourism industry. Together, we are building a brighter future for the international and inbound tourism sector.