Venue 2016

A New Zealand Herald Commercial Publication

29 March, 2016

MEETINGS • INCENTIVES • CONVENTIONS • EVENTS

MONEY CAN’T BUY THIS Epic opportunities in Australia FACE TIME

Why conferences matter more than ever

GROWING PLACES Business travel trends

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Big or small, we can do it all!

We pride ourselves of delivering quality functions to delight our clients

Key features - 8 function rooms located in the heart of epsom - In-house catering, CafĂŠ/restaurant and Bar - Can cater from 20 to 700 guests - Centrally located with easy access to motorways, CBD and airport - Complimentary car parking - Large amount of outdoor space and facilities Alexandra Park Function Centre Cnr Green Lane West & Manukau Rd, Epsom, Auckland P: 09 630 5660 E: enquiries@alexandrapark.co.nz W: www.alexandrapark.co.nz

15% discount for new bookings between march & may!* * New bookings only. The event must fall between March & May 2016. Minimum 50 guests.

Daily Delegate package only.

3

VENUE – 29 MARCH, 2016

VENUE

CONTENTS 4-6

MONEY CAN’T BUY THIS Exclusive incentive opportunities in Australia

8-10

IS THERE A YOU IN ‘TEAM’?

Team-building adventures across the ditch

12-13

FACE TIME Face-to-face conferences are still important

14-15

GROWING PLACES

17

HOW TO KEEP SECRETS SAFE ‘Exclusive hire’ vital for security

18-19

MAKING EVERY POST A WINNER Ellerslie Event Centre has a makeover

20-23

Business class Most Kiwis love to travel for fun. You’re reading the first issue of Venue, our new magazine devoted to the thousands of New Zealanders – and visitors to our country – who travel for business.

And meet, and confer, because they respect that one of the most important clauses in any contract is a good, old-fashioned handshake and a face-to-face conversation.

While the most high-profile component of the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events / Exhibitions industry is the much talked-about International Convention Centre in inner-city Auckland, there are many fascinating players up and down the land.

You’ll read about several of them in our first issue.

More and more New Zealand businesses are recognising the value of incentivising their major clients as well as their highperforming staff. Australia, with its “Money Can’t Buy” opportunities and team-building options, is a favoured destination. We’re pleased to partner with Tourism Australia’s Business Events arm for this premier issue.

INDUSTRY NEWS What’s happening around New Zealand

Trends in business travel

Venue is an NZME. Custom Publication Managing Editor: Ewan McDonald ewan.mcdonald@nzme.co.nz Advertising: Sandy Kilgour sandy.kilgour@nzme.co.nz Contributing writers: Kris Madden, Donna McIntyre, Henry Porter Design: Xanthe Williams Cover: King George Waterfalls, Kimberley, Western Australia, True North Expeditions

OUR VENUES WILL BLOW YOUR SPOTS OFF If you’re looking for something completely unique and want to stand out from the crowd, we can help you like no one else can.

At Auckland Conventions Venues & Events we know that no two events are the same. Our attention to detail, unparalleled desire to make every occasion extraordinary, plus exclusive access to Auckland’s most iconic venues, means that your next Auckland event will... blow your guests’ spots off.

www.aucklandconventions.co.nz ANZ VIADUCT EVENTS CENTRE | AOTEA CENTRE | AUCKLAND ART GALLERY | AUCKLAND TOWN HALL AUCKLAND ZOO | BRUCE MASON CENTRE | THE CIVIC | MT SMART STADIUM | QBE STADIUM FUNCTION CENTRE

Auckland Conventions. Always Extraordinary.

events@aucklandconventions.co.nz 0800 54 98 98

4

VENUE – 29 MARCH, 2016

INCENTIVES – AUSTRALIA

MONEY CAN'T Imagine: a private helicopter flight over Sydney and into the wilderness. Hanging out in the pits at Melbourne’s F1 Grand Prix. A luxury yacht voyage thousands of years into Australia’s past ... You could be there, writes Kris Madden.

M

ore and more New Zealand companies are realising the benefits of incentive travel to reward and motivate their staff, salespeople, consultants and key customers. Inspiring and motivating your team boosts company morale, improves performance, and encourages greater loyalty.

Thrilling adventures and shared experiences hone and develop team dynamics, allowing management and colleagues to build stronger relationships, revitalise business teams and enhance team cohesion. Team-building exercises are important not only for the immediate experience of the activities performed by the team, but also for the group skills, communication and bonding that result.

There’s no doubt that Australia is an inspiring destination for incentive programmes and business events.

Endowed with natural wonders, wildlife, dazzling beaches, cosmopolitan cities, large expanses of outback and world-class gastronomic experiences, it’s easy to see why this captivating country is such a complete destination.

It not only matches every taste, budget, age, or interest, but it also delivers some unique experiences almost impossible to find anywhere else. Its proximity to New Zealand is yet another major bonus.

From Queensland’s famous Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef; to dining under a glittering canopy of stars at the spectacular, sacred Uluru; to ballooning over a world-renowned wine region, there are countless sites that should be seen and enjoyed at least once in a lifetime.

Holding your incentive, conference or teambuilding event in Australia is sure to have your delegates talking about their experience for years to come.

NATURAL STYLE

Step aboard a private helicopter and be lifted away, first for a dazzling aerial view of the Sydney CBD, Harbour Bridge and Opera House, before heading west along the Parramatta River towards the Blue Mountains. After crossing the Nepean River, the flight climbs above the chiselled sandstone escarpments of the Blue Mountains World Heritage Area.

After circling the world-famous Three Sisters, Echo Point, and the Jameson and Megalong Valleys from

above, your group descends into the Wolgan Valley and your destination: Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley Resort and Spa. Wedged between the Wollemi National Park, where the 35,000-year-old, thought-extinct Wollemi pine was discovered in 1994, and the prehistoric formations of the Gardens of Stone National Park, you’re constantly reminded of just how close to nature you are. Set in a private conservation reserve, grazing wombats, wallaroos and wallabies and other uniquely Australian creatures frequent the grounds at dawn and dusk. It’s an inspirational setting for memorable meetings, corporate retreats, incentives, conferences and events.

You can book this 40-suite and villa resort for sole use and hold your whole incentive programme here. Host a gala dinner under the stars and experience an unforgettable evening against the backdrop of this historic venue, with stargazing and bush poetry completing a memorable evening. Custom menus can be prepared and served in a variety of locations depending on the group size and needs.

And while it’s tempting to relax in the luxury of your private villa pool at the property voted No 1 Hotel in Australia in TripAdvisor's 2016 Traveller's Choice Awards; there’s a host of activities, including wildlife safaris, aboriginal interpretation and heritage tours, astronomy, horse riding, mountain biking, fly-fishing and bush walking. Hands-on conservation outings focus on preserving the surrounding wildlife sanctuary.

Between excursions, the group can rejuvenate in the spa, take a hit of tennis, work out in the fullyequipped gym, steam room and sauna. Or sit back

5

VENUE – 29 MARCH, 2016

BUY THIS on the terrace, a glass of Australian red in their hand, as the setting sun drenches the surrounding landscape in soft colours. Although this haven is right on Sydney’s doorstep, it feels a million miles away, and is a perfect reward for your top achievers. www.oneandonlyresorts.com

GET YOUR MOTOR RUNNING

Almost no event on the Australian sporting calendar creates as much excitement as the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix. This world-class event is the ultimate in corporate entertainment, famous for luxury, glamour, fashion, fine dining, and of course, thrilling action both on and off the track.

The Australian Grand Prix is the opening race of the international Formula 1 season, where against the backdrop of the World’s Most Liveable City, the world’s top racing car drivers show off their cuttingedge cars and lightning-speed teamwork. Watch them zoom around Melbourne’s Albert Park circuit at speeds of up to 300 km an hour, with the distinctive pitch of the high performance cars echoing across the city.

Your team won’t miss any of the excitement with the Formula One Paddock Club experience, in a private suite above the team garages and Pit Lane. Away from the crowds in their own exclusive club with a distinctly ‘Members Only’ feel, over four adrenaline-flowing days, they’ll have exclusive access to The Lounge and rooftop viewing deck, be

treated to a Pit Lane walk each day, have executive chefs on hand to indulge them, and receive elite access to the pamper room.

Combine the on-track experience off-track, with the chance to feel the most advanced motion Formula One simulators in Australia, at Motionators at Melbourne’s Docklands. The advanced technology of these simulators mirrors every sensation and sound that a real Grand Prix racing car produces. The group will feel every swerve, every skid and every bump as they twist around the circuit.

For the ultimate experience, put your top performers behind the driver’s seat on a Formula Ford Race Car Experience – the closest one can get to driving a Formula One vehicle. Before they became international F1 racing drivers, greats like Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher and Mark Webber honed their skills in Formula Ford.

After donning helmets, boots, gloves and race suits, the session begins with a safety briefing and explanation of the vehicle and driver tips.

The Broadford Road Circuit is carved into the Victorian countryside, and provides a range of technical corners, amazing elevation changes and flowing sections. After this unequalled racing experience everything else they’ll drive will feel like it’s standing still. www.grandprix.com.au

ALL AT SEA From the moment you board the luxury True North expedition ship, you’ll know this isn’t going to be any ordinary cruise.

This 36-passenger floating boutique hotel is available for exclusive use for corporate and incentive groups, combining some of Australia’s best wilderness experiences on the water with silver service on board.

Each day aboard True North is filled with activities from the moment you wake. Of course, you can do as much or as little as you like, but the excursions on offer are as diverse as the changing environment.

Private charters have the opportunity to customise the cruise itinerary, and activities on any given day can range from fishing and hiking to snorkelling and wildlife spotting. Being a small ship, True North can get into bays, lagoons, estuaries and rivers that most cruise ships cannot.

Tender boats allow you to explore the region intimately, and True North is also the only ship to cruise the Kimberley region with its own helicopter. If you’re into fishing, then you’ll have plenty of opportunities to snag a prized barramundi and fish billabongs that have never been fished.

The Kimberley Snapshot itinerary condenses all the highlights of the region into a week-long voyage. Embarking at Wyndham, the region’s oldest and northernmost town, the cruise takes in the spectacular King George Falls, the Hunter and Prince Regent Rivers, the incredible Montgomery Reef, and the famous Horizontal Waterfalls, before heading home to the frontier pearling port of Broome.

A five-night Coral Atoll cruise departs from Broome, where guided by a marine biologist and a team of underwater naturalists; you’ll revel in the diverse wonderland of coral habitats, maze-like lagoons, and surging tidal canyons of Western Australia’s Rowley Shoals, just south of the Timor Sea. The Southern Safari itinerary is a journey of discovery along the coast of South Australia with a mix of adventure, history and relaxation. There’s plenty of excitement too, with visits to Kangaroo Island, cage dives with Great White Sharks, snorkelling with the ‘tuna cowboys’ off Lincoln, swimming with seals at Stokes Bay, or having a picnic on the beach with only penguins for company.

What makes these adventures so special, is that True North travels to areas of Australia that many Australians themselves have never been. www.northstarcruises.com.au

6

VENUE – 29 MARCH, 2016

INCENTIVES – AUSTRALIA

HIGH FLYERS' GOURMET TRAIL

Imagine having your own private jet to fly your group to some of Australia's most iconic destinations and gourmet experiences.

Linking together the Barossa Valley, Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale, Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula, Hobart, Freycinet Peninsula and Tamar Valley by private aircraft means your guests have more time to explore these wonderful regions and experience all that they have to offer.

Boarding Air Adventure’s 9- passenger Outback Jet in Melbourne, within 90 minutes they’ll arrive at the Barossa Valley where this gastronomic adventure begins. First stop is Maggie Beer’s Pheasant Farm for a hands-on cooking class picking fresh produce from the Kitchen Garden.

The day ends at Seppeltsfield, the only winery in the world to release a 100-year-old single vintage wine each year since 1851. After spending the night at The Louise luxury lodge, guests depart for Penfolds Magill Estate, where they can hear stories of Australia’s first winemaking dynasty.

Continuing to the picturesque Adelaide Hills they’ll have a private cheesemaking tour at Udder Delights in the main street of historic Handorf, before staying at the boutique Stirling Hotel.

Day three starts at McLaren Vale, famous for its intensely flavoured shiraz. Here guests enjoy a handson experience at d’Arenberg winery’s Blending Bench and play winemaker for the morning. The Outback Jet awaits at a nearby airfield to take off for the iconic 12 Apostles along the Great Ocean Road before landing for a local crayfish lunch.

The next day begins with an early hot air balloon ride to take in the spectacular views of

the Yarra Valley before heading to De Bortoli for a behind the scenes tour. The Outback Jet then transfer guests to Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula to enjoy an afternoon of experiences at Montalto winery, before a short flight to Hobart's MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) Pavilions, their home for the next two nights.

Day six guests take a short flight to Freycinet taking in views of Wineglass Bay before arriving at Saffire, another Luxury Lodge of Australia, for an oyster shucking experience followed by fine dining at Saffire’s signature restaurant.

This extraordinary journey will put your guests right in the heart of some of Australia’s most amazing locations in jet-setting style. Two aircraft can be hired catering for 18 guests. www.airadventure.com.au

Above: Yarra Valley Dairy Pic/ Roberto Seba Below: Sunset, Barossa Valley. Pic/Adam Bruzzone

Join us for the most up to date business conversations

PwC Herald Talks are breakfast events designed to give you the knowledge, insight and strategies to grow and diversify in the ever-changing landscape of New Zealand business.

UPCOMING 2016 BREAKFAST EVENTS: Innovation - May | Generation War – July Big Data – September | Sustainability – November

Tickets available soon through iTicket Past keynote speakers include:

Sir Ray Avery

Kirsten Taylor

Dr. Mark Sagar

Fady Mishriki

Founder CEO of Medicine Mondiale

Founder of SleepDrops

Director of Laboratory for Animate Technologies

Chief Tesla Officer of PowerbyProxi

Past panellists include: Barbara Chapman, Hon Amy Adams, Diane Foreman, Dr Mary Quin, Rod Snodgrass, Bruce Hassall, Erica Crawford, Phil Veal, Mai Chen, Tenby Powell, Steve Maharey, Dan Alpe and many more.

Hear from key thought leaders and an expert panel adjudicated by Fran O’Sullivan – Head of Business, NZME. nzherald.co.nz/PwCHeraldTalks Brought to you by

Thanks to our supporting sponsors

8

VENUE – 29 MARCH, 2016

INCENTIVES – AUSTRALIA

SCALE THE HEIGHTS

Take in a 360-degree view of Sydney from the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge with the award-winning BridgeClimb. Your team will walk along catwalks, climbing over and under the famous bridge – reaching the summit, where you’ll have the entire Sydney Harbour at your feet. Take a team photograph at the top, then toast your climb with drinks and canapés served in your exclusive space, while photos of your climb are projected onto plasma screens.

Climbs can cater for large groups, recently hosting a corporate climb for more than 2000 people. www.bridgeclimb.com

DRAMA QUEEN

Once you’ve seen it from above, see one of the world’s most iconic venues on a private tour of the Sydney Opera House. Your team will have access to areas normally reserved for performers. Stand on the world-famous Concert Hall stage, take up the conductor’s baton in the orchestra pit, or sneak a peek inside the stars’ dressing rooms.

Follow with a performance at one of the world’s most celebrated performing arts centres, and a pre- or post-show dinner at the Bennelong restaurant. Backstage tours accommodate a maximum of 12 guests. www.sydneyoperahouse.com

PIÈCE DE RÉSISTANCE

Imagine Melbourne’s icons and attractions swathed in monumental works of art created by your team. Big Stick Adventures ‘Paint the City’ programme sees teams create giant artworks which are then displayed in attention-grabbing spaces, such as wrapped around Australia’s tallest building, Eureka Tower; covering the surface of the Melbourne Cricket Ground; hung from a helicopter and flown over the city; spread across Federation Square; or carried by boats down the Yarra River. You may even make the news. Suitable for large groups 50-100 people. www.bigstickadventures.com

GO UNDERGROUND

In the opal mining town of Coober Pedy, South Australia, around half the residents live underground in ‘dugouts’ – built to avoid the often scorching heat. The Desert Cave Hotel in South Australia is the world’s only underground hotel, and offers meeting facilities for up to 180 delegates, along with underground accommodation, underground shops and galleries, and an underground bar and gaming room. The hotel arranges specialised group tours of the South Australian outback, including fossicking for your own gemstones. www.desertcave.com.au

9

VENUE – 29 MARCH, 2016

Australia is an inspiring destination for team-building. Kris Madden suggests some experiences that your team will never forget.

SWIM WITH SHARKS

Come face-to-face with a real Great White Shark in South Australia’s Port Lincoln, the home of shark diving in Australia. No diving experience is required, and up to eight people can enter the cage at a time.

Your team-mates will be lowered into the deep blue to meet the ocean’s top predator. Don't like the idea of being in a cage?

Adventure Bay Charters has an 'Aquasub' underwater viewing platform where you can view the fierce creatures while staying dry. Private boat charters can cater for up to 27 guests. www.adventurebaycharters.com.au

WHITSUNDAY WONDERS

With dazzling white powder-soft sand, sapphire-coloured waters, and kaleidoscopic displays of coral and tropical fish, the Whitsunday Islands off the coast of Queensland are certain to be memorable for your team. Charter a private yacht and sail at leisure among the 74 islands; take a thrilling seaplane or helicopter ride to Whitehaven Beach, one of the whitest beaches in the world. A private function for up to 300 guests can be held on its sandy shores. www.whitsundaysbusinessevents.com.au

AUSTRALIA’S RED HEART

Sunset over the rust-red flanks of the Northern Territory’s Uluru is magical when viewed from a camel’s back. Your team can ride camels around the base of Uluru and watch the landmark change colour from mauve to burning red. Later, at a ‘Sounds of Silence’ dinner, a storyteller will share tales from the night sky above.

Various sites can accommodate up to 300 guests. Until March 31, 2017, teams can also experience the global phenomenon of the Field of Light art installation, where more than 50,000 lights will illuminate the landscape. For maximum 120 guests. www.ulurumeetingplace.com.au

WHISKY BUSINESS

Tasmanian whisky has taken the world by storm, winning accolades around the world. Join Tasmania’s premier whisky distillers for two days of exclusive tasting and insights into what makes this golden nectar so special at the award-winning Saffire on Tasmania’s Freycinet Peninsula.

This opportunity is only available for groups booking the entire 20-suite resort, which also includes a day spa, gourmet meals, and tailor-made experiences among the beauty of Wineglass Bay, the pink Hazards Mountains and crystal-clear Great Oyster Bay. www.saffire-freycinet.com.au

10

VENUE – 29 MARCH, 2016

INCENTIVES – AUSTRALIA

TO A TEE

One of the finest stretches of golf in the world, the Melbourne Sandbelt in Victoria is home to eight of Australia’s best courses. Golf Select can arrange corporate golf days playing one of these exclusive courses for up to 100 guests; or an ultimate golfing tour playing different courses for small groups, including Royal Melbourne (ranked No 6 world and No 1 in Australia); and Kingston Heath (ranked No 27 world and No 2 in Australia). Tee off on a course that has challenged the world’s greatest golf champions. www.golfselect.com.au

RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

Whisk your team into a frenzy and see who can take out the title of MasterChef.

BBQ MasterChef by XL Events is a combination of reality television’s favourite cooking shows, with an Aussie twist.

Teams are outfitted with chef hats and aprons, given gourmet BBQ’s, cooking utensils, and ingredients, which must be prepared, cooked and presented on time to a panel of judges, before sitting down and enjoying the fruits of their labour.

MasterChef programmes are available throughout Australia, and are suitable for around 100 guests. www.xlevents.com.au

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!

Is your team ready to star in their own blockbuster movie? Teambuilding Australia delivers a team programme which includes everything your team needs to make a fantastic mini-movie, including costumes, make-up, music, sound effects and actors.

Scripts include James Bond, Mission Impossible, Austin Powers, Charlie’s Angels, Star Wars, Pirates of the Caribbean, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, The Flintstones, The Wizard of OZ, and Batman and Robin. View the finished movies and attend an Oscars-style awards ceremony.

Suitable for 100+ guests. www.teambuildingaustralia.com.au

GENTLE GIANTS

Swimming with whale sharks at Western Australia’s Ningaloo Reef is one of life’s most amazing group wildlife experiences.

Every year, between March and July, these harmless giants of the ocean congregate in the Ningaloo Marine Park following the mass spawning of coral. A number of tours operate out of Coral Bay and Exmouth, and from this year, some have also been granted permission to swim with humpback whales, one of the only places in the world where this is possible.

Maximum numbers of 20, with 10 people in the water at one time. www.visitningaloo.com.au

MAKE A SPLASH WITH NEW PLYMOUTH EVENT VENUES Add inspiration to your event by choosing one of our iconic event spaces in a spectacular region.

Centrally located with experienced staff and flexible configuration options. Your event at one of our venues will be an experience that will stay with you.

6WRS DQG UHIOHFW RQ ZKHUH \RXU QH[W HYHQW VKRXOG EH« ts.

ZZZ WDUDQDNL LQIR (PDLO VDUDK#YHQWXUH RUJ Q]

12

VENUE – 29 MARCH, 2016

CONFERENCES & CONVENTIONS

Despite technological advances that make virtual interaction easy, more businesses are staging face-to-face conferences and conventions than ever – and New Zealand, and especially Auckland, is reaping the rewards, writes Henry Porter.

The $700 million NZ International Convention Centre in central Auckland (artist’s impressions above and right) will be completed in 2020.

L

ast year in New Zealand over 500,000 delegates attended more than 5000 conferences or conventions, and this year’s calendar is looking even busier, says Sue Sullivan, CEO of Conferences & Incentives NZ (CINZ).

“This is very much a relationship-based industry. There’s a lot of networking and sharing of ideas. Some parts will be tech-based, where you can log in and hear a speaker, but there’s still a requirement for that face-to-face contact.”

She says that a further problem with virtual conferences is that in our increasingly connected world attention spans are short. People are likely to wander away from their desks, or get distracted by another screen in front of them.

Forward-thinking companies can justify the cost of a venue-based destination conference because

“We’re punching above our weight.

We’re up against big destinations with big budgets, but our point of difference is that New Zealand story, and the easy way we have with people.”

– Sue Sullivan CEO of Conferences & Incentives NZ (CINZ)

employees who attend are more likely to get value from the experience, the networking and bring back ideas to share with colleagues.

The situation is helped by the (currently) low Kiwi dollar, good facilities, staff who go the extra mile and the increasing visibility of New Zealand on the world stage.

Indeed this year is booking fast and late-comers are finding it difficult to get space in venues because demand has been high, says Sullivan.

“Remember a meeting is an experience not just an exchange of information,” she says. “And what we as New Zealanders do in this industry is provide a unique experience and it’s one which visitors love.

“We talk about Manaakitanga. It’s our style of hospitality that visitors comment on when they leave.

“It’s how we greet people, how we welcome

them to our home, how we engage them and share ideas. And that starts from the first communication, as well as the cultural and regional aspects we bring – be it imagery, food, fittings, activities, wine or the building itself.

“We’re punching above our weight. We’re up against big destinations with big budgets, but our point of difference is that New Zealand story, and the easy way we have with people.”

And that success is easy to measure.

“The feedback we’re getting is that people who conference here love New Zealand and plan to come back — often for a family holiday.”

Construction on the New Zealand International Convention Centre began in February and will be completed in 2020. The $700 million project will create an estimated 1000 jobs onsite during the

13

VENUE – 29 MARCH, 2016

build plus an additional 2000 jobs in associated industries flowing on from the construction project.

The 300-room five-star facility will be a big drawcard for international businesses and bring millions to the New Zealand economy.

“The new centre will enable us to capture some of those big conferences and conventions that we currently don’t have the facilities to host,” says Sullivan.

“What happens with these huge conferences is that groups will splinter off from the main conference. They might go to the Hawkes Bay or Taranaki or Queenstown.

“Additionally part of the conference might have an incentive aspect attached to it. Attendees may have won awards, so they’ll be taken away on a reward programme so it won’t only be Auckland that benefits.

“It also gives us the opportunity to tell a bigger story. We work closely with Tourism NZ, Air New Zealand, the hotels, councils, and the Ministry of Business to ensure their memory of New Zealand is a good one.

“At the moment the only thing we don’t have is size — but overall we’re doing really well. English is the international language of conferencing so we’re good there,” says Sullivan. “And the perception abroad of New Zealand as a green destination is another positive.”

And the tyranny of distance, ironically, often works in our favour.

“Actually we have big businesses wanting to come here because it’s so far away. American companies see us as exotic,” says Sullivan, “and with new air routes opening every month we’re easier to get to. Out of the States it’s just an overnight, out of Sydney it’s quicker to come here than go to Western Australia.”

She says attendees can step off the plane and arrive to state-of-the-art facilities, world-class cuisine and a wide range of activities and accommodation options.

Keeping standards high and adding more facilities is key, says Sullivan.

“If a business has a good experience with a venue they are more likely to return and the pressure is on conference organisers to ensure that their event is not just more cost effective, but also relevant to the attendees.”

The next big opportunity is Asia.

“We do get business from Asia but that’s a sector we want to grow because they are a big conferencing and incentive tourism market. Yes, there are cultural differences but remember these people are educated and experienced travellers.

Travelling to an English-speaking country is often not new for them.

It’s an exciting industry to be part of,” says Sullivan who’s been in the job just 18 months, “but it’s hard work. The event might look glamorous but the lead up to it won’t be. Our people are the last person standing — up early and the last to leave and they’re there at the end waving that bus off with a smile.”

While Auckland’s the big player, the regions are important too. Sullivan says that thanks to the strong economy and positive business outlook domestic conferencing is strong.

“Hamilton/Waikato is a great destination, close to Auckland with a great, versatile centre at Claudelands and that’s really getting some traction,” says Sullivan.

“The location tells a beautiful cultural story and there’s a lot of industry that’s unique to the area — you’ve got the Avanti cycling arena, the horse breeding, Mystery Creek and a big aviation industry.

“We have big businesses wanting to come here because it’s so far away. American companies see us as exotic, and with new air routes opening every month we're easier to get to "

Rotorua, Wellington and lately Christchurch are also popular.

“Christchurch is great because the new venues they’re building are multi-purpose. The Hagley Oval and Pavilion was built for cricket but you can also host a conference there. The Isaac Theatre Royal is a beautiful venue and we’ve hosted a very successful dinner there.”

“Last year was very busy domestically – Wellington companies going up to Rotorua, people from Christchurch going up to Blenheim or Nelson, Hawkes Bay companies conferencing in Taupo.”

The incentives industry is also growing.

Essentially this is where companies award employees for a job well done.

“Out of Southeast Asia we get big incentive travellers of 800 people. They’ll be enjoying high-end hotels, they’ll be down at Hobbiton or Waitomo or up in Northland, but they’ll use Auckland as their base.

“Then you’ve got you smaller, elite incentives of say 20 people. They’ll be at Cape Kidnappers, Kauri Bay, at the Hilton in Taupo or down in Queenstown at Blanket Bay. Often these sorts of incentives don’t want to be known as a public event – they like to fly under the radar and we’re happy to facilitate that it’s another growing market.”

Sullivan is looking forward to June’s Meeting event at the ASB Showgrounds, Auckland.

“We have over 200 exhibitors on the show floor and more than 500 buyers from here and all around the world. It’s our chance to showcase to the industry the best of what we have on offer — in food, wine, entertainment and venues.” ●

Of MICE and meetings • Conventions and Incentives New Zealand (CINZ) is the official, membership-based association of New Zealand’s conference and business travel industry with more than 380 members across a broad range of sectors.

• The eight key New Zealand conference destinations are Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua, Wellington, Nelson, Christchurch, Queenstown and Dunedin.

• MICE — an acronym for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (or Events), usually group tourism dedicated to planning, booking and facilitating conferences, seminars and other events.

• Conferences are shifting from multi-day affairs to shorter, sharper events with the focus on experience and engagement.

• CINZ Meetings in June is New Zealand’s only national business tourism event.

It brings together buyers and sellers of conference and incentive travel products and services to grow business opportunities and share knowledge and ideas.

14

VENUE – 29 MARCH, 2016

BUSINESS TRAVEL

In a digital world, the handshake is still one of the most important means of communication. Donna McIntyre asks industry experts about the trends in business travel.

Y

ou can’t go past a good, old-fashioned handshake. That’s why New Zealand business travellers still need to visit their international markets even though technology has made it easier to keep in touch with overseas clients.

And industry forecasts are that corporate travel — particularly the MICE sector — will continue to grow as more airlines fly into New Zealand, introducing new destinations for corporate groups, and hotels provide more facilities tailored for conferences and business travellers.

Andy Jack

2016 TRENDS

“Oil prices are low which is driving airlines to look at New Zealand as a viable market,” says Andy Jack, general manager of FCM Travel Solutions NZ. “The flow-on effect is that the next decade will see more planes flying a lot more routes, opening up new destinations for Kiwis and continuing to put downward pressure on the price of airfares.

“Asia is a growth area in the corporate space — China in particular — as well as South East Asia.

We’ve seen carriers respond to this such as Air New Zealand with their direct route to Vietnam and an increase in capacity to Tokyo, and Philippine Airlines’ direct route to Manila,” he says.

“We’ve seen growth in travel Stateside, particularly for corporate travellers into key US business hubs. The new Houston route is good news for our clients looking for an easy route up to the northeast of America.

“In the domestic space competitiveness between Air New Zealand and Jetstar has seen some good fares in

revitalise [ree-vahyt-l-ahyz] Imbue (something) with new life and vitality; to give vigour and energy to.

Chris Lethbridge

Nicola Segal

terms of both accessibility and affordability.”

Chris Lethbridge, NZ regional manager for Emirates, which has launched a non-stop Auckland to Dubai service, says increased competition is always a good sign of a healthy economy. “To grow business, industry needs to explore new markets.”

“We are very globalised,” says Brendan Drury, managing director for Orbit Auckland, which provides business travel management solutions. “And you have new markets opening up. I have my wall map and you look at the Pacific Basin, it is so important to New Zealand, going right round South America, up the coast to the North America, to Asia and Australia.

“Organisations need to be able to travel, they need to be able to meet. Air New Zealand had a campaign in the early 2000s about ‘being there is everything’. You have to be in front of the customer whatever you are doing. Things like conference calling, all that is woven into the communication platform, but the physical handshake is key,” he says.

Australia has always, and will continue to be, New Zealand’s most popular corporate destination with more than half the total outbound market travelling there every year, says Nicola Segal, Virgin Australia’s NZ business development manager.

“2016 brings even more frequency across the Tasman, and Tourism Australia has worked hard to market more unique regional destinations that Kiwis may not have considered before.

“In 2016 you will continue to see more aggressive pricing for long-haul travel, introducing new destinations that corporate groups may not have considered previously.”

Working with alliances such as Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia gives group travel access to more than 200 flights across the Tasman a week, reaching almost 50 destinations within Australia.

“As for working with airlines, PCOs [professional conference organisers] and TMCs [travel management companies] are more in tune with securing frequent flyer points for group travel, dedicated group check-ins and soft benefits that previously may have been a priority with this market.

“Lead time for group travel is always important — the further out you book, the better chance of securing a competitive rate. Sole-use charters also have been on the increase, offering the group all seats on a scheduled flight — often providing a more competitive fare than traditional charter flights.”

COME TOGETHER

Even though technology enables businesses to stay in touch with contacts around the country and internationally, Drury stresses the importance of meeting in person and organising conferences to bring staff together. “Getting messages across to a lot of staff in one go; there is huge value in it.”

Shelley Eastwood agrees. As group conference and incentive sales manager at Heritage Hotels, she says business inquiries in recent months have doubled.

“We are charting a big increase in conference

Feeling the wind in your hair and the sand under your feet renews the body and revitalises the mind.

Unique experiences are hard to find, but not forgotten.

So why not refresh your thinking on where to meet next?

Providing expert local knowledge to event planners - best of all, our service is free

businesseventssunshinecoast.com Rainbow Beach, QLD Australia

#visitsunshinecoast

15

VENUE – 29 MARCH, 2016

Who is travelling?

groups wanting extra privacy and exclusivity for their delegates. Several of our hotels are suitable for an exclusive ‘buy out’ for an event.”

WHY USE A TRAVEL MANAGER?

Business travellers want a managed programme, Jack stresses. “They don’t want to spend hours trawling the internet for travel arrangements, losing productivity.

“Factors should be considered including cost, the ability to provide ‘duty of care’, ensuring there is no loss of productivity, access to the best rates/ fares, 24/7 support and the ability to effectivity measure and understand your businesses travel spend,” he says.

Drury: ”In January and February in particular, cars and hotels in New Zealand were hugely full and the prices were through the roof. That is where our strength comes in. We know what is full and what isn’t; we ring around doing the hard work for our customers.

“What is exciting now is there is so much choice. Scheduling is definitely key: what time you land, what time you are at the hotel or meeting.

Corporate clients are looking at facilities, if they have a shower at the airport, things like that. People are trying to hit the ground running,” he says.

Lethbridge affirms that travel agents will

continue to play a key role in Emirates’ distribution. “Our expansive network allows more complex itineraries to be offered to customers. Travel agents are experts in this space and offer real value to the customer in the planning process.”

Air New Zealand says as well as travel management companies playing an important role in booking travel, they also help customers who need to make last-minute changes or deal with an emergency.

LOYALTY SCHEMES AND INCENTIVES

Perks and loyalty schemes are important for some companies. “Many business travellers enjoy luxuries like lounge access, parking and air points and they will be loyal to a certain carrier or supplier because of their schemes,” says Jack.

For instance, Emirates’ loyalty scheme Skywards rewards on miles flown and the airline’s Business Rewards programme is designed for small to medium enterprises with rewards on revenue spent. “Tier miles remain important to frequent travellers which allows perks such as additional baggage and lounge access,” says Letheridge.

Likewise, Air New Zealand bases its airpoints dollar and status point earnings on the price paid, rather than distance flown. The airline’s lounges, seating and loyalty benefits form a core part of the airline’s value proposition for business travellers. The airline also has an Airpoints for Business programme for small and medium businesses, enabling owners to earn additional airpoints dollars each time employees travel for work, while the individual traveller also earns points. ●

Millennials are different from Gen X and Baby Boomers, according to Jack. “Their wants are for greater choice, unique experiences and constant connectivity as they are always ‘on’ and connected, and they work hard.

“They want the best and yet can be frugal. Their appetite for travel is greater and they often want a leisure experience also. This is a good thing as this seeking of balance can avoid burnout.

“The merging of business and leisure to create ‘bleisure’ is creating a new breed of travellers, new rules and a blurring of the business rules, combining productivity, hard work and opportunity to enjoy the job.

“Conversely Gen X are more aligned to fly for purpose and are often last in and first out. Their desire for balancing home life and work life influences their travel patterns.”

EXPERIENCE THE BENEFITS OF GROUP TRAVEL BY VIRGIN AUSTRALIA Make travelling as a group seamless and flexible Virgin Australia’s experienced consultants take the hassle out of organising group travel to make your experience stress-free. Offering personalised service and attention to detail our New Zealand based team will make sure your next travel experience to Australia is a success.

To find out more visit groupsales@virginaustralia.com.au

Looking for the perfect place to host your next private event or function?

Good Group Hospitality has four premium venues located in the heart of Auckland’s CBD & Viaduct and have an impressive selection of private dining rooms and spaces available to host your next event. Harbourside Ocean Bar Grill and Botswana Butchery are located in the historic Ferry Building on Quay St and newly opened White+Wong’s and Sardine are also located on the water’s edge in the Viaduct harbour.

Whether you’re looking to book a cocktail party, post-work gathering, celebratory function, conference, business meeting, wedding or private dining event, our team can create a package that will meet your every need.

With different cuisine offerings and menus at each venue, all masterfully created by our talented team of chefs we’re sure we’ll be able to satisfy the taste buds of your guests with service to match to ensure a memorable and successful event.

Harbourside Ocean Bar Grill Email juliet.broom@goodgroup.co.nz or auckland@harbourside.co or phone 09 307 0556 Botswana Butchery Email auckland@botswana.co.nz or phone 09 307 6966 White+Wong’s Email auckland@whiteandwongs.co.nz or phone 09 379 6914 Sardine Email auckland@sardine.co.nz or phone 09 302 1947

17

VENUE – 29 MARCH, 2016

CONFERENCES & CONVENTIONS

How to keep secrets safe T

Also trending: a big focus on wellness for delegates. The Heritage group has worked hard to provide healthy and nutritious fare in its menus and caters for as many as 13 special dietary requirements, Eastwood says. “We invented the Raw Breakfast Bar which is being presented around our hotel group.

Heritage Auckland was also the first NZ hotel to be Vegetarian Society of NZ-accredited for a range of vegan and vegetarian items.

“We also are very strong on assisting a healthy exercise regime for our guests with many hotels having on-site health clubs, swimming pools and even tennis courts and bicycles to use in some locations.”

Queenstown’s airport’s increased capacity has made Heritage Queenstown a top contender for events in 2016. Its Icon Room, winner of several

architectural awards, can host private conferences of up to 200 delegates theatre-style and 160 for a dinner.

The hotel has uninterrupted lake and mountain views through floor-to-ceiling windows.

Showstopping views are also available from the rooftop deck.

Other venues for exclusive hire include the historic Heritage Hanmer Springs in the South Island spa town and the Rutherford Hotel, Nelson, which offers modern meeting facilities for up to 700 delegates theatre-style and 500 for a banquet.

It’s a popular choice for large conferences where privacy and discretion is important.

Exclusive hire options are also available at Heritage’s Waitakere Estate, secluded high in the Waitakere Ranges, and Marlborough Vintners Hotel. ●

Four excellent

BUSINESS

with...

& LEISURE

focused destinations

enquire about our great value Day Delegate or Residential Packages

DUNEDIN

SELECTIVE, be SPOILT, WELLINGTON

AUCKLAND

be

rue story. One of our major corporates was holding a Brainstorming session for its senior executives in a large hotel in an offshore city. Come the morning-tea break, everyone made for the muffins and the bathrooms — leaving all their whiteboard notes in an empty room. Purely by accident, a visiting executive from another firm walked into the unlocked and unattended room.

Fortunately, the errant executive was (a) embarrassed at going into the wrong room (b) realised the compromising situation for all concerned, and rapidly retreated.

Imagine if the unwitting intruder had been less concerned with business scruples, or — worse — an industrial espionage agent?

That’s why a major trend in the conference and events sector is “exclusive hire” of a venue.

This offers not only privacy for the delegates to talk business in a secure setting but also offers a more collegial atmosphere for delegates to spend time together, formally and informally, to share ideas.

Shelley Eastwood, the Heritage Hotels group conference and incentive sales manager, says there has been a doubling of inquiries for exclusive hire of hotels in recent months.

“We are charting a big increase in conference groups wanting extra privacy and exclusivity for their delegates. We have seen a doubling of growth in this business at Heritage Queenstown, while Heritage Hanmer Springs and Rutherford Nelson are also seeing a sharp rise in event bookings of this nature too,” she says.

PICTON

What happens in brainstorms, stays in brainstorms with the ‘exclusive hire’ of a venue.

Queenstown’s airport’s increased capacity has made Heritage Queenstown a top contender for events in 2016.

www.cpghotels.com

18

VENUE – 29 MARCH, 2016

CONFERENCES & CONVENTIONS

MAKING EVERY POST A WINNER

Think Ellerslie, you think racehorses. But the facility has another life as one of the country’s biggest event centres, and it’s undergoing a makeover, writes Donna McIntyre.

A

fresh look for facilities at the Ellerslie Event Centre is all part of keeping up with demands and expectations of corporate clients.

Over two years, rooms are being re-painted, re-carpeted, re-curtained and LED lighting is being installed for sustainability.

The centre, in the park-like surroundings of the historic racecourse, is a popular address for meetings, conferences and conventions. It includes the Ellerslie and Ascot stands.

The reason for the two-year timeframe is so rooms can be taken out of use without affecting bookings too dramatically, says Craig Fenwick, the

Award winning architecture Restored heritage venues Inspiring street art

centre’s executive general manager of hospitality and events.

“I think we are close to being one of the biggest centres in New Zealand.

“We have over 800 functions a year, and that does not include raceday functions. We would have about 150,000 a year at these events.

“Talking size-wise, we have 26 rooms so we can take anything from a boardroom for four to eight people right through to where we have had dance events for 6000 people. That was the whole stand, so it had different D Js in every room.

“Two of our largest rooms are capable of holding 850 for dinner.

New meeting venues Shopping, dining & entertainment hubs And lots of accommodation options!

Looking for something a little different?

Talk to us before planning your next business event.

19

VENUE – 29 MARCH, 2016

“We have had Christmas parties in our stables before, which is quite different. We did a Telecom Christmas party many years ago and that was huge. They took over the whole of the Ascot Stand, the racing club members’ stand. They had different entertainment in different rooms.”

He says the jewel in the centre’s crown is the Cuvée Bar. “We have an indoor-outdoor flow. It is basically a room but it has a retractable roof and that can seat 500, or 800 for a cocktail party.

“You can drive cars in there, boats in there, it is right by the winning post and it’s a nice environment. We do a lot of car launches in there.”

He puts the Ellerslie Event Centre’s popularity down not only to the facilities offered but also its location.

“We are 15 minutes from the CBD and adjacent to the Southern Motorway, probably half an hour to the airport, so our location is very good. And we offer state of the art technology through our AV provider which is Edwards Sounds Systems.”

The centre has four account managers and an in-house catering team. “So we offer fresh creative and innovative cuisine and accommodate any budget,” says Fenwick.

“Our free parking is a big strength. We have our expansive grounds and gardens which enable team-building activities in a nice atmosphere both for creating and to get out of the city environment.”

The event centre offers 20 different types of events. Some of these are aimed at the school ball

and wedding markets, but business and delegate packages are designed specifically for meetings, conventions and conferences.

Fenwick says his customers want data projectors, conference calling, internet and wifi. “People always want to offer that to their clients now and to their guests at their conference and things so they can check emails and so on.

“We even had a virtual presenter who was beamed in from another country. That was pretty wild.”

He estimates international business would be 90 per cent, the rest domestic.

“We also have the hotel on site, the Novotel and Ibis. They have 250 rooms and that is a major benefit for us.”

Asked why people still want to gather for conferences, meetings and conferences, Fenwick says even though technology has made it easier for businesspeople to communicate with staff or clients, you still can’t beat gathering people together in one location.

“It is common sense to share your goals and aspirations for your company with your staff,” he says.

“Yes, you have Skype and conference calls but you can’t beat the overall experience of the live presentation. You can see the clarity of the presentation, you can encapsulate the food and beverage offerings to enhance that experience and probably the most important thing is the networking opportunity.

“You don’t get to do that when you Skype and things like that; I don’t think it will ever take over the conferencing and convention market.

“People need to meet, they need to network, they need to build the entire experience, not just the presentation but the food that was presented and how nice the room was.”

What does he see as trends for the industry?

“I think the ever-changing technology will change business, obviously better presentations, and a big one we have seen which continues to grow is the food and dietary trends, which will dictate the catering options and styles. The glutenfrees, the nut allergies, all those seem to becoming more and more prevalent in the requirements.

“I think the expectations of our clients will continue to grow, for us to be more innovative and offer professional and exceptional service.

“We get customer feedback, we keep up with trends and we are redoing our rooms to keep them fresh and modern because that is what clients want.”

He says some organisations book ahead but the trend is that lead time is much shorter.

“It doesn’t affect us too much. The availability of rooms sometimes is not there. We unfortunately turn away a lot of business which is awful to do but you only have so many rooms, especially with bigger ones.

“There is not a lot of choice in Auckland for the bigger events. So if they can’t change their dates, we have to turn them away.” ●

Share The Moment Create moments of inspiration at Ellerslie Event Centre for your next business meeting.

A wide variety of rooms to suit from 12 – 1,200 attendees 10 minutes from downtown Auckland Easy access to the motorway Ample free parking functions@ellerslie.co.nz 09 520 6329

eventcentre.co.nz

20

VENUE – 29 MARCH, 2016

INDUSTRY NEWS

SUNSHINE COAST TARGETS MEETINGS, EVENTS

Heritage offers opportunities in Auckland, Hanmer

Q

ueensland’s Sunshine Coast has unveiled a new campaign promoting the region as the major meetings and events capital of regional Australia.

“The World is Coming…” campaign showcases events in the region in 2016 and into 2017, the 50th anniversary of the naming of the Sunshine Coast.

Over the next year, the Sunshine Coast is scheduled to host 60 major sporting, music and lifestyle events, as well as national conferences, estimated to attract 150,000 delegates and visitors from over 40 countries.

The new campaign builds on a major expansion of the Sunshine Coast’s events and meetings capacity, with new venues, new activities and attractions, and a significant increase in direct air services.

Qantas' new, business-friendly direct air services from Sydney to Sunshine Coast offer six-times weekly, two-class services.

The new Qantas services are in addition to increased Air New Zealand flights from Auckland and extended domestic services by Virgin and Jetstar.

Venues, activity providers and event suppliers have released offers exclusively for conference and event planners. These can be found at www. businesseventssunshinecoast.com.au The Sunshine Coast’s newest full service 4.5 star corporate hotel has opened in the heart of the region’s rapidly developing medical and education precinct at Kawana, the Best Western Plus Oceanside Kawana Hotel.

Conference and incentive groups will be able to experience a natural setting with 80 sq m ‘glamping’ tents at the new rivershore resort on the Maroochy River when it opens in July/August.

The Sunshine Coast’s largest hotel and resort venue, Novotel Twin Waters Resort, has launched a new 10,000 sq m multipurpose outdoor space, The Field, providing additional team-building options, and able to cater for large outdoor dinners, events and festivals. The Novotel is also rapidly becoming the pre-season training camp venue of choice for a number of prominent sporting teams.

Sunshine Coast-based DMC Beyond Experiences new ‘Destination Boardroom’ concept offers unique locations for corporate meetings, strategy sessions

CONFERENCE DINNER DEAL

Tsai Yi-Lung of Asusdesign Centre, Taiwan, and Jessica Down of Wood Group Integrity Management, Australia, helped by a chef during a Cooking Challenge event at the Hyatt Coolum, Sunshine Coast.

Photo/Eddie Safarik

and retreats. Think private boats, luxury retreats, glamping by the beach and hinterland barns, personalised catering and professional service.

Incentive groups have discovered Australia’s Great Beach Drive. This unique adventure experience, travelling in 4WDs, can take small groups along the coast from Noosa to Fraser Island, covering over 200km of beach driving. Expect coastal vistas, native wildlife and a wide range of activity options and pit stops along the way. The full journey covers two Unesco biosphere reserves, a World Heritage-listed marine park and the largest sand island in the world.

Team-building experiences trending Australia is experiencing a boom in team-building experiences during conference and incentive events, according to team-building professional Danielle Lambert.

Ms Lambert, the Queensland and Northern Territory Manager of Corporate Challenge Events, said demand had increased due to an opportunity to combine fun, adventure, team

development and the destination’s features all in one event.

“If you’re staging a conference or business event in a beautiful destination like the Sunshine Coast, what better way to experience the region then through a social, fun and engaging activity that also provides many team development outcomes?” said Ms Lambert.

“We have various team-building

programmes like City Scramble and Great Race that can be tailored for each conference or event to take in many of the destination’s sights and landmarks.”

Corporate Challenge Events works closely with Business Events Sunshine Coast for visiting events and clients. It is Australasia’s largest team-building and corporate events organisation with offices across Australia and New Zealand.

Heritage Auckland is offering a free venue hire special for a conference gala dinner in its historic rooftop Grand Tearoom.

The special offer is valid for new conference bookings made before April 29 for an event held before December 9, 2016.

The complimentary room hire is only available in conjunction with the purchase of a three-course dinner for a minimum of 100 diners, a two-day conference of 100 delegates and 50 paying accommodation rooms at Heritage Auckland.

The hotel is set in a landmark department store building that celebrated its 100th year in 2014. The Grand Tearoom was the popular tearooms of the department store for over 60 years. Today it is a sought-after venue for events, conferences and weddings.

The room caters for up to 400 delegates for cocktails and 300 for a banquet.

Its conference facilities include a second ballroom for up to 300 delegates plus seven breakout rooms and the rooftop pool deck for welcome cocktails.

Heritage Auckland caters for 13 special dietary requirements and focuses on healthy fresh cuisine in its dining options. It was also the first hotel in New Zealand to receive an accreditation by the NZ Vegetarian Society and to launch a Raw Breakfast Bar.

CONFERENCE SPECIAL Heritage Hanmer Springs is offering an early winter special of 50 per cent off conference room hire. The special is valid for conference bookings of a value of NZ$2000 or more, booked and held before July 31.

Set in an iconic historic 1930s lodge, then described as the “finest architecture in the Southern Hemisphere,” the hotel caters for events of up to 150 people and provides accommodation from hotel and garden rooms to self-contained three-bedroom villas. The property is also available for hire for a conference or special interest group.

Across the street is the award-winning Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa. For the active, activities include golf, jet-boating, quad-biking, horse-riding, teambuilding exercises, as well as mountain bike riding and hiking in the Hanmer Forest.

21

VENUE – 29 MARCH, 2016

INDUSTRY NEWS

WOW! IT'S THE WHITSUNDAYS The Whitsundays is poised to make the leap as one of Australia’s premier business event destinations with a range of unique meeting options and growing development in Airlie Beach and the islands.

S

unny days, pristine beaches and a huge variety of activities within easy access to world-class meeting facilities are the Whitsundays’ promise.

Growth in the region remains strong with two airports, new developments and redevelopments of several island resorts underway or in the pipeline, such as Daydream Island, Lindeman Island, Dent Island and Brampton Island.

Additionally there are new luxury cruisers and upgrades to existing venues and infrastructure in Airlie Beach.

The Whitsundays offers more than 6000 accommodation rooms and meeting spaces suitable for business events up to 1000 delegates, ranging from 3-star apartments to 5-star luxury island resorts such as Hayman Island and qualia on Hamilton Island.

Wow delegates by conferencing on a permanent pontoon floating on the Great Barrier Reef, by booking out an entire island, or even holding smaller meetings on board a luxury yacht

The region offers the best of contemporary Australian and international cuisines, with an emphasis on local produce like Bowen mangoes and fresh seafood straight from the boat. You can taste more than 400 types of rum at Australia’s first rum and seafood café, Fish D’Vine, in Airlie Beach.

The Whitsundays region is easily accessed by two airports, Whitsunday Coast Airport and Hamilton Island Airport. Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin Australia and Tiger Airways offer direct flights to Whitsunday Coast and Hamilton Island airports from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, with additional services between Hamilton Island and Cairns. Both airports are a short flight from Brisbane Airport, which offers frequent connecting flights to international cities including Auckland and Christchurch.

Conference and meeting venues are supported by a range of experienced local service providers, from event stylists to photographers to exhibition hire companies.

With 74 tropical island wonders in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsunday coast and islands in central Queensland are an ideal business events destination.

There is the potential to wow delegates by conferencing on a permanent pontoon floating on the Great Barrier Reef, by booking out an entire island, or even holding smaller meetings on board a luxury yacht or historic tallship.

You can spend the night under the stars on the Great Barrier Reef pontoon with Cruise Whitsundays’ Reef Sleep experience, or soar above Heart Reef and view the natural formation from the air in a seaplane or helicopter.

While in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, delegates can experience activities such as snorkelling among thousands of fish in the coral reefs and picnicking on the No 1 beach in Australia, Whitehaven Beach, with its brilliant white silica sands and turquoise waters. ●

15% discount for new bookings between march & may!* 8 function rooms available, which can cater between 20 - 700 guests.

09 630 5660 | enquiries@alexandrapark.co.nz | www.alexandrapark.co.nz * New bookings only. The event must fall between March & May 2016. Minimum 50 guests. Daily Delegate package only.

22

VENUE – 29 MARCH, 2016

INDUSTRY NEWS

Buzz about Canterbury From ocean to alps, from sunrise to sunset, the region is a hub of character and capability.

C

hristchurch and Canterbury Convention Bureau has released its latest video and website showcasing the region’s enterprise and innovation strengths.

Manager Caroline Blanchfield says the video captures the essence of the conference experience in Christchurch.

“We feature a day of conferencing from sunrise to sunset, and focus on what makes our region such a rich learning environment across diverse fields of interest, from agricultural science and building technology to IT and medical research.

“There’s a real buzz here and our new video reflects the city’s capabilities and our distinctive regional character.

“We show just how much you can pack in after touching down at Christchurch International Airport.

From ocean to alps, new CBD to green parks, from our agricultural sector to our innovation and research hubs there is a lot to learn in Christchurch,” she says.

The proposed Christchurch Convention and Exhibition Centre

“There’s a real buzz here and our new video reflects the city’s capabilities and our distinctive regional character."

– Caroline Blanchfield Manager Christchurch and Canterbury Convention Bureau

“Christchurch is an exciting place to be right now and the next few years will see a huge transformation for business event visitors, as the new Convention Centre and more hotels open.”

Central Christchurch is evolving into a hub of smart precincts with world-class facilities. A lively convention centre precinct is in the final planning stages, and the new health and innovation precincts, performing arts venues and a metro sports facility are already underway.

The Christchurch Convention and Exhibition Centre will have a prime riverside setting and promises to be a boutique-style premium international-standard facility, surrounded by shops, restaurants and hotels.

“The city’s attractive design draws on our rich natural and cultural heritage, with a focus on pedestrian-friendly shopping, dining, arts and entertainment areas set alongside the beautiful Avon River, surrounded by wide green spaces framing the centre,” Blanchfield says.

Christchurch is already home to many of New Zealand’s newest event venues including the Transitional ‘cardboard’ Cathedral, Isaac Theatre Royal, Air Force Museum and Christchurch Art Gallery.

With its airport just 15 minutes from the city centre, Christchurch is also the visitor gateway to the South Island’s coastal and alpine playgrounds.

“Our wider Canterbury region has many options on offer for pre- and post-touring, partner programmes and incentive travel — from thermal pools, spa treatments, wildlife viewing and night sky tours, to hot-air ballooning, golf, scenic train journeys, 4WD tours and adrenaline-based activities,” Blanchfield says. ●

Rutherford Hotel Nelson First class facilities on nature’s door step.

Heritage Queenstown Breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu.

19

15 DESTINATIONS

PROPERTIES

Talk to Shelley Eastwood on +64 9 979 7525 to arrange your next event. www.heritagehotels.co.nz/events/conference

You’re Somewhere SpecialTM

HHM217 03/16

From Boardrooms to Ballrooms, Heritage Hotels is able to accommodate business events from 2 to 700 people in desireable locations throughout New Zealand.

>@C6 H2JD E@ >66E :? ?6H K62=2?5 2UZ_R 2aRce^V_e 9`eV] 3cZe`^Rce

HZeY `gVc )!! XfVde c``^d R_U R TY`ZTV `W #( ^VVeZ_X R_U VgV_e daRTVd eYVcV Zd R gV_fV e` dfZe VgVcj ^VVeZ_X cVbfZcV^V_e SVehVV_ CV_UVkg`fd 9`eV] 2fT\]R_U CV_UVkg`fd 9`eV] 4YcZdeTYfcTY EcRgV]`UXV HV]]Z_Xe`_ R_U 2UZ_R 2aRce^V_e 9`eV] 2fT\]R_U 3cZe`^Rce 7`c ^`cV Z_W`c^ReZ`_ V^RZ] ^VVe1eWVY`eV]d T`^ CV_UVkg`fd 9`eV] 4YcZdeTYfcTY

CV_UVkg`fd 9`eV] 2fT\]R_U

5Rj UV]VXReV aRT\RXVd Wc`^ &# aVc aVcd`_ DVV hVSdZeV W`c ^`cV UVeRZ]d E76Y`eV]d T`^ EVc^d R_U T`_UZeZ`_d Raa]j 5Rj UV]VXReV aRT\RXVd gRcj SVehVV_ Y`eV]d R_U RcV dfS[VTe e` RgRZ]RSZ]Zej