Hospitality NZ will welcome industry leaders to HNZ26 in just six weeks' time, held in Rotorua in late June.
The stage is being set for HNZ26. In just six weeks' time, the country’s largest hospitality and accommodation conference will bring together the people, ideas, and technologies shaping the future of the industry, with a strong lineup of speakers and an expanding exhibition floor.
The industry event will be held at Energy Events Centre in Rotorua on 23 and 24 June, with hundreds of industry representatives expected to attend.
International hospitality performance strategist, Preston Lee, and internationally-renowned flavour researcher, bartender and author, Atilla Bús, will deliver keynote speeches at the event, alongside New Zealand’s own award-winning digital creator, Louis Davis, who will speak about building a brand through authenticity, grounded in culture and lived experience.
There will be a raft of other presentations from industry experts detailing everything from the state of the industry and its outlook, to technological advancements propelling the industry forward, and how we can inspire and support the next generation.
The trade floor will be Hospitality New Zealand’s (Hospitality NZ’s) largest ever, with international award-winning companies, sustainable industry solutions, the latest hospitality technology, and of course, food and beverage delicacies fuelling the attendees.
Hospitality New Zealand Chief Executive, Kristy Phillips, said HNZ26 is shaping up to be the industry’s most comprehensive event.
“HNZ26 is for anyone in the hospitality and accommodation sector looking at ways to improve, grow, and better their business.
“From inspiring keynotes and expert panels, to a buzzing trade expo and networking and social opportunities, HNZ26 will unpack the sector’s challenges and showcase the opportunities that will advance the industry.”
Renowned broadcaster Trudi Nelson will MC HNZ26, keeping the programme moving and the energy high.
The theme is Manaakitanga in Motion, which is about celebrating the spirit of hospitality and accommodation, an industry defined by dedicated people and meaningful experiences.
As part of HNZ26, LION Hospitality New Zealand Awards for Excellence will be held across the two nights, celebrating both people and businesses, with comedian and voice-over artist Simon McKinney hosting a black-tie awards event on the final evening.
The People’s Awards for Excellence, proudly sponsored by DB Breweries, recognise outstanding individuals, from emerging talent to inspirational leaders. The LION Hospitality Business Awards, sponsored by LION, will spotlight venues that are setting the standard in innovation, sustainability, customer experience, and overall excellence.
The People’s Choice award can be voted on by the public from the list of finalists, which can be found here.
The programme’s highest honour, the Supreme Award, will be selected by independent judges from the category winners, recognising the pinnacle of excellence in New Zealand hospitality.
More news here.
