Innovation Meets Impact in Wellington

In the competitive landscape of global conference destinations, cities around the world strive to attract events that align with their key industry strengths, a strategic move that maximizes local expertise and infrastructure. This targeted approach not only boosts the event’s success but also highlights the host city’s leadership in specific sectors.

While many destinations adopt this strategy, some excel more than others, seamlessly integrating their unique advantages into the conference experience. In this regard, Wellington stands out by leveraging its robust science, innovation, and governmental sectors to draw high-profile conferences, making it a compelling choice for organisers seeking impactful and resource-rich environments.

Wellington’s Strengths

New Zealand is building a formidable reputation by prioritising science, innovation, and climate action. Leading the way, Wellington boasts the largest research, science, and innovation workforce in the country.

The city is a center of academic excellence. It’s home to Te Herenga Waka–Victoria University of Wellington, which has the highest proportion of academics conducting high-quality research in New Zealand and ranks in the top 2% of 18,000 universities globally. Wellington also hosts government-funded Crown Research Institutes, a medical school campus, and many creative arts colleges, including COCA Massey, Toi Whakaari, and the VUW Miramar Creative Centre.

Wellington’s interconnected science industry is breaking new ground through collaboration between universities, research institutes, and industry, leading to life-changing discoveries that have global impacts. Case in point: a Victoria University of Wellington scientist is developing potential new treatments for advanced (metastatic) breast cancer.

Medical & Biomedical Innovations

The Malaghan Institute of Medical Research (MIMR) is at the forefront of cutting-edge research and clinical trials. A recent successful trial of CAR T-cell therapy, a groundbreaking cancer treatment, is providing hope to people in New Zealand with incurable blood cancer. MIMR is also harnessing mRNA technology to develop a powerful new malaria vaccine.

Meanwhile, the Medical Research Institute of New Zealand has set new standards in asthma treatment globally through three clinical trials on asthma management. Also based in Wellington, the Ferrier Research Institute’s team of chemistry experts is developing better drugs, materials, and technology.

Some of the bright ideas coming out of Wellington are also being commercialised into successful medical businesses. BioOra, for instance, is revolutionizing cancer immunotherapy by automating the manufacture of CAR T-cells, while Volpara Health is advancing AI-driven software for personalized screening and early detection of breast cancer.

Events Driving Impact

Wellington is an ideal location for organisations seeking to host impactful events. Ranked second out of 102 countries for open government, New Zealand fosters citizen participation in decision-making and transparency. Conference planners can easily connect with high-profile political, scientific, academic, and cultural leaders, making Wellington a compelling choice for hosting events focused on positive change.

The city’s institutions are attracting international conferences, such as the Royal Australian & New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (RANZCOG) Annual Scientific Meeting this October, and the trans-Tasman Member’s Choice Symposium, which recently took place at Tākina Wellington Convention & Exhibition Centre, Wellington’s newest conference venue.

“We’re delighted to be bringing our Australian and New Zealand members together in New Zealand for the first time in seven years,” says RANZCOG event manager Anna Smaragdi. “Wellington is centrally located with easy access for all our members, as well as home to New Zealand’s Government and a strong women’s health community. The capital provides great opportunities for international networking and collaboration. Plus, it has a cool vibe and is a fantastic place to visit.”

Easily accessible with short flights from Australia and other international hubs in New Zealand, Wellington’s central location makes it the perfect springboard to other parts of the country and beyond. The city is just a 15-minute drive from the airport to most venues and hotels, ensuring convenience for conference attendees. There are also 4000 hotel rooms within the CBD, from five-star with harbour views to laidback budget-friendly options, all within a short walk from your convention venue.

This last point is also what makes Wellington a good, compact candidate to run events looking to minimise their impact on the environment. The city is in fact well-known for its environmental focus. With the lowest emissions per capita of any Australasian city, it is a leader in climate innovation, being recognised as one of the top 10 eco-cities in the world by Lonely Planet. The city is also home to Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne, the world’s first fully-fenced urban sanctuary, and is one of the only cities globally where native biodiversity is increasing.