From medicines and clean manufacturing to renewable energy and advanced materials, coordination chemistry quietly supports many of the technologies shaping modern life. In 2034, the scientists advancing that work will gather in Auckland.
The city has secured the 50th International Conference on Coordination Chemistry, expected to attract between 1,000 and 1,200 delegates for six days at the New Zealand International Convention Centre.
The winning bid was led by Professor Christian Hartinger of the University of Auckland, working with Professors Sally Brooker and James Crowley from the University of Otago and Professor Robin Fulton from Victoria University of Wellington.
“This was a genuine all-of-New Zealand effort,” said Hartinger. “ICCC50 represents much more than a conference. It is an opportunity to inspire the next generation of coordination chemists, strengthen international partnerships, and showcase New Zealand’s research excellence.”
That national character was central to the bid, which united universities with Auckland Convention Bureau, Tourism New Zealand Business Events, the Auckland Advocate Alliance and NZICC. It positioned Auckland not simply as the host city, but as the gateway to a connected scientific community spanning institutions across the country.
The path to 2034 will include another important milestone: Hartinger’s team will host the 12th Asian Coordination Chemistry Conference in Auckland in 2028. Together, the two events offer New Zealand a long runway to develop emerging talent and deepen its links with the international chemistry community.