AUCKLAND BUSINESS EVENTS GUIDE

Choose to have it all

aucklandnz.com/conventions

Inspired choice With a combination of city sophistication and world-class facilities set within a stunning natural wonderland, Auckland is the perfect host. Auckland has everything you need to create an exceptional business event and Auckland Convention Bureau can help you make the most of it. Our assistance and expert advice are free – just like this guide, where you’ll find out more about the endless choices Auckland offers, from diverse venue and accommodation options to exciting activities for your group. As well as the inspiration at your fingertips, we’re here every step of the way to ensure your next conference, incentive or business event is a success.

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Easy choice Welcome from Auckland Convention Bureau Hosting a business event in another city takes a huge amount of planning. That’s why Auckland Convention Bureau (ACB) partners with local organisations who are able to deliver unparalleled excellence to ensure your hard work really pays off. Whether it’s conference facilities, hotel accommodation or local infrastructure, the quality of service and breadth of selection will make it an experience like no other. We know business events come in all shapes and sizes – from international conferences to boutique experiences. Whether you’re considering bidding for a conference, needing inspiration for your next event or help to add that wow-factor and those final touches to your event, we’re here to support you. Our local and international knowledge is not just invaluable, it’s also free. From preparing proposals to sourcing solutions, our team of industry experts offer you excellent advice and resources. Don’t be daunted if the prospect seems too big, or if you’re time poor, we’ll do the leg work for you. Let us help you think outside the square and help design your event to suit your audience. We know Auckland has an impressive choice in all aspects of business events, so give us a call today – we’re here to help at any time. Yours sincerely,

Anna Hayward Manager Auckland Convention Bureau (Auckland Convention Bureau is a division of Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development)

“When putting together an event in an unfamiliar city, access to the contacts provided by the Auckland Convention Bureau has been a real bonus.” Chris Keeping, New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards

Contents Auckland Convention Bureau Services

4

Welcome 9

Venues 17

Venues with accommodation

21

Conference & exhibition services

29

Shopping 33

Cuisine 37

Useful information

41

Transport 25

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Smart choice AUCKLAND CONVENTION BUREAU SERVICES

Want to make your next conference, meeting, incentive or business event a success? Auckland Convention Bureau (ACB) can help you from start to finish. ACB gives you free, impartial advice and assistance with every aspect of your event, from choosing the right venues, accommodation and services, to organising site visits, bespoke delegate experiences and promotional materials. And if you’re bidding to bring an international conference to our shores, we can even produce professional bid documents and feasibility studies.

Bidding

With ACB’s inside knowledge of Auckland, creating an outstanding event is easy.

• fi nancial feasibility studies • assistance in applying for bid funding (criteria apply) • advice and quote for venues, accommodation, activities and service providers • preparing professional bid documents.

Planning Large or small, the key to a successful event lies in the planning. If you want to tick all the right boxes, get free, impartial advice and assistance from ACB from day one. No one knows Auckland like ACB, so you’ll also find out about some of the hidden gems to really wow your delegates. We can help with: • d esigning a tailored proposal to meet your needs • arranging site inspections on your behalf • finding the right venues, accommodation, services, transport, activities and entertainment • bespoke Auckland famils, so you can experience first-hand what the region has to offer • online supplier search tools • free promotional resources.

Thinking about bidding to bring an international conference to Auckland? Our bid team can help you every step of the way. From developing an initial strategy through to implementing a winning bid, you’ll have ACB’s expertise, connections and resources at your fingertips:

Experiences There’s more to creating an impressive event than what you put on in the boardroom (or ballroom). If you want to surprise your delegates with a genuinely memorable experience, we’ll help you with ideas and recommendations so you can make the most of everything Auckland has to offer, from sophisticated urban experiences to exciting adventure activities: • • • • •

nique team building events u travel incentives and rewards bespoke Auckland famils partner programmes pre and post-event touring.

Promotion

Connection

Promote your conference or business event, or enhance your presentation or bid document with free resources from ACB:

Stay connected with people in your industry, from fellow event planners to service providers. We help you get in touch with the right people – including the right people in our team. Sometimes catching up face-to-face makes all the difference, stay connected by:

• • • • •

itinerary ideas brochures and maps image library Auckland business events promotional DVD collateral to assist you in marketing your event.

• j oining in our networking events and functions • keeping up to date with new event services, products and offers through our regular e-newsletter • Receiving updates from us on LinkedIn • Talking to us at tradeshows.

AUCKLAND CONVENTION BUREAU SERVICES

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Lonely Planet rated Auckland as one of the Top 10 Cities for 2014 in its Best in Travel guide.

AUCKLAND CONVENTION BUREAU SERVICES

CONFERENCE BIDDING

Auckland Convention Bureau (ACB) has a dedicated team that are experts on conference bidding and can help you prepare a competitive bid to bring an international conference to Auckland. We can walk you through the process, support you in an initial feasibility study, help you prepare a strategy that works and support you in the presentation of your bid. We can access the funding that will make all that happen for you – and that’s just for starters. Once you’ve won the bid to host, we can introduce you to the right people to ensure your conference runs smoothly and successfully.

Auckland has the accessibility, the infrastructure, the venues, the professionals and the natural setting to impress your international delegates. Contact the team to learn more.

“All of their professional expertise was offered with no strings attached, no fees, no hidden costs – just unconditional support to get the job done.” Dawn Garbett, PhD Associate Professor, School of Curriculum and Pedagogy Faculty of Education

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A world of choice Auckland can accommodate all your business event needs. With event venues, accommodation, transport, activities, luxury products and technical services, Auckland has every type of supplier to help you deliver a world-class event. Take a look through these options and get a taste of what your conference could entail.

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Natural choice • Embark with delegates to Great Barrier Island, an unspoilt paradise that feels a million miles from anywhere yet is only a ferry or short flight away. • Jump aboard the rainforest express and experience the native bush, old tunnels, bridges and dams in the Waitakere Ranges from an open-carriage railway. • Enjoy a team dinner under the stars at one of the West’s many secluded and awe-inspiring black sand beaches.

Creative choice • Listen to arias while dining privately in an elegant boutique hotel. • Uncover the city’s history and culture. • Take a personalised interactive tour of Auckland Art Gallery with a curator and then dine in one of their private and unique function spaces. • Get creative in the kitchen with a Masterclass under the expert tuition from multi-award winning chefs.

Reward employees and customers with the recognition they deserve with a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will surprise and delight them in Auckland.

WELCOME

Adventurous choice • Start the day with breakfast in the bungy pod suspended below the centre arch of the Auckland Harbour Bridge, then walk it off with a guided tour. Or get the adrenaline pumping with a bungy jump. • Send your crew on an adrenaline-fuelled tour of the harbour aboard a powerful jet boat for a high speed adventure including spins and tricks you’ll never forget. • Zoom along a wild west coast beach in a blokart powered by the wind. Or have delegates buckle up in a super-car for hot laps at the world-class Hampton Downs racing track circuit.

Delicious choice • Savour some of the finest New Zealand and international wines on offer in Auckland. • Sample Auckland’s culinary delights on a bespoke group tour, get behind the scenes and make your own gelato, roll fresh croissants and learn secrets from the experts. • Indulge in world-class cuisine, fine wines and boutique beers in the city’s vibrant dining districts.

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Unique choice • Discover Auckland’s melting pot of cultures from around the world. • Take your delegates on an Auckland experience through Māori eyes – enjoy a hikoi, or walk, in the company of a Māori guide. • Incorporate a team activity by learning the haka (a traditional dance) or follow in the footsteps of Māori ancestors by paddling a waka (a Māori canoe). • Launch your conference or event with a Māori cultural welcoming ceremony or a Māori performance.

WELCOME

Exciting choice

Memorable choice • Don a leather jacket and rumble around Auckland on the back of a mighty Harley-Davidson or V8 trike. • Treat delegates to a truly unique experience at an indoor snow resort that’s open all year round. • Hold a meeting or function there and make the most of your breaks by hitting the slopes. • Rub shoulders with some of New Zealand’s biggest celebrities. Undertake a light training session with Auckland-based All Blacks before heading behind the scenes for a private cocktail function in the All Blacks’ changing rooms at Eden Park.

• Build team spirit, motivate and energise delegates with scavenger hunts, adventure races, paintball, clay pigeon shooting or archery throughout the city. • Dress up and enjoy a Bond-themed night at SKYCITY Casino. Learn the tricks from professionals with on-site poker lessons, and place your bets on who’ll come out the biggest winner. • Challenge each other in a range of adventure options at Woodhill Forest, from mountain biking, quad bike trails and horse riding treks, to treetop obstacle courses set amongst dense native forest.

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Luxurious choice

Inspiring choice • Hit the water as part of the crew on an America’s Cup racing yacht or simply sit back and enjoy sailing on the sparkling harbour. • Make a splash on one of the many water activities in Auckland. Try kayaking, surfing, windsurfing or diving. Plus, explore the colourful sea life with a snorkel at Goat Island Marine Reserve. • Explore Auckland’s stunning harbour while dolphin and whale watching along the way. See these amazing mammals in their nautical habitat while enjoying canapés and local wine as the sun goes down.

• Lavish VIP arrivals with a luxurious transfer in a helicopter from the airport, or take guests on a sightseeing tour by air to one of Auckland’s local islands for a private dinner. • Pamper delegates with a treatment at one of Auckland’s best spas. Tailor packages for a partner’s programme or treat delegates to an on-site luxurious shoulder and neck massage. • Indulge in the highest high tea in Auckland while enjoying revolving 360 degree views of the city from the top of the Sky Tower or visit one of Auckland’s many five-star international hotels to treat your delegates in style.

WELCOME

Eventful choice • Catch the latest art exhibitions from world renowned local and international artists. Get up close to striking paintings, photographs and sculptures at the art galleries or fascinating treasures at Auckland Museum. There’s always something new to see in Auckland. • Auckland’s sport scene is one of the most exciting in the world, with a wide range of thrilling international events. Auckland has hosted major international events such as the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015, Dick Smith NRL Auckland Nines, Volvo Ocean Race Auckland Stopover, V8 Supercars ITM 500 and FIFA U-20 World Cup 2015. Take the team to a corporate box and experience a major sporting event first hand. • Festivals are an unforgettable Auckland experience. Soak up the sights, sounds and tastes of food and wine, music, sport, fashion, film and more. • Immerse yourself in one of Auckland’s many community events like the outdoor cinemas at Silo Park, or discover a little more about Auckland’s melting pot of cultures at our annual cultural celebrations such as Pasifika, Diwali and Auckland Lantern Festival.

Sustainable choice Let us help you make sure your next Auckland business event is as kind to the planet as possible, with practical measures and advice. Some of the things to consider: • C hoose venues, accommodation and conference suppliers that are committed to sustainable practices – ask them to provide green or sustainable options when quoting. • Create a sustainable transport strategy. Measure your events’ carbon footprint by offsetting emissions and encourage attendees to consider public transport. • Choose activities that allow attendees to support the environment or give back to the community. • Look for the Qualmark Enviro symbol when searching for your suppliers.

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Impressive choice Auckland’s stunning surroundings are home to many world-class convention facilities that suit conferences of up to 3,500 people. If you require something more intimate, experience the range of boutique lodges and homesteads.

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VENUES

VENUES VENUE

THEATRE

CLASSROOM

BANQUET

COCKTAIL

BOARDROOM

AREA M2

1

ANZ Viaduct Event Centre

2200

1200

1200

2200

20

2245

2

Aotea Centre

2139

260

650

1000

-

1100

3

Auckland Art Gallery

200

16

180

350

24

-

4

Alexandra Park

900

180

650

1000

60

1000

5

ASB Showgrounds

3000

300

3300

6000

25

5544

6

Auckland Town Hall

1529

400

460

1600

-

550

7

Auckland Museum – Tamaki Paenga Hira

600

200

450

600

-

-

8

Eden Park

1000

-

800

1500

-

975

9

Ellerslie Event Centre

1100

500

750

1200

60

1400

10

Hauraki Blue Cruises

110

32

80

110

32

-

11

The Kelliher Estate

300

180

220

500

10

270

12

MOTAT – Museum of Transport & Technology

600

300

600

800

40

-

13

Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant

40

30

166

220

22

150

14

New Zealand Maritime Museum

300

120

220

400

50

550

15

Shed 10

1575

-

800

1500

-

2204

16

SKYCITY Auckland Convention Centre

1700

918

1040

1500

-

1322

17

Sweat Shop Brew

90

30

60

650

15

744

18

The Civic

2378

-

410

700

-

-

19

The Cloud

2697

-

1750

4500

-

2697

20

The Wharf

200

60

180

500

40

270

21

Villa Maria Estate

300

240

350

400

28

600

22

Vodafone Events Centre

3000

1200

1400

2500

-

1800

23

AUT University

483

250

280

500

24

-

See maps at the back of this guide for locations

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Photo: Zane Khan

Suite choice Auckland has a full range of accommodation choices to suit any budget. And since most of these options have conference facilities, travel time and costs throughout the course of your business event are significantly reduced.

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VENUES WITH ACCOMMODATION

VENUES WITH ACCOMMODATION

ACCOMMODATION

ACCOMM.

THEATRE

CLASSROOM BANQUET

COCKTAIL

BOARDROOM

AREA M2

1

Crowne Plaza Auckland

352

460

240

340

400

110

420

2

Heritage Auckland

190

400

240

300

450

80

396

3

Hilton Auckland

165

270

150

400

700

60

1210

4

Pullman Auckland

340

900

450

650

1000

30

827

5

Rendezvous Hotel Auckland

452

800

400

600

1000

70

830

6

Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour

172

130

70

100

140

40

195

7

The Langham, Auckland

409

1200

650

850

1000

60

1187

8

Holiday Inn Auckland Airport

250

400

240

350

400

40

364

9

Novotel Auckland Airport

263

315

180

180

315

102

296

10

Rydges Auckland

267

240

140

150

240

48

205

11

Stamford Plaza Auckland

286

320

168

220

400

50

324

12

Sudima Auckland Airport

153

280

150

200

300

-

300

13

The Spencer on Byron

145

500

300

450

500

60

682

14

Waipuna Hotel & Conference Centre

150

408

408

300

500

50

485

See maps at the back of this guide for locations

Auckland has more than 6000 hotel rooms in the central city alone. aucklandnz.com/conventions | 25

Smooth choice Auckland has a very compact central business district, which means it’s really easy to get around. In fact, most of the main convention centres are located just a short walk from many of the city’s most popular attractions. There are many transport options in Auckland to help you efficiently manage both small and large groups. These include buses, trains and ferries, as well as rental cars and motor homes for those who wish to explore further.

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TRANSPORT IN AUCKLAND

Coaches Let the specialists assist you with planning the logistics and deliver a stylish service no matter what size your group. From large luxury coaches to limousines, we can help you find something to suit.

Cycle There’s no better way to start the day and see Auckland’s waterfront than on a bicycle. Delegates can enjoy a flat ride out to St Heliers and be back in time for breakfast. The round-trip is just over 20km from the city centre.

Drive Delegates can get behind the wheel with one of Auckland’s many rental car companies or they can relax with Auckland’s private chauffeur and limousine services – these can easily be arranged for organisers or keynote speakers.

Take a 12 minute ferry ride to the iconic seaside village of Devonport

TRANSPORT

Sail, kayak or ferry Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour is full of breathtaking sights and natural wonders. From short sightseeing trips to full-day tours, there’s a great selection of ways to explore and be mesmerised by Auckland’s beautiful harbour and Hauraki Gulf Islands.

35

min. Ferry to Waiheke Island – the stunning ‘island of wine’

Fly Auckland’s scenery is simply stunning. And there’s no better way to take it all in than from the air. Take a helicopter tour and discover the city from above, or head out to one of the harbour’s outlying islands on a boat plane.

Something different Delegates can also enjoy unique experiences such as cruising through Auckland’s stunning scenery on a HarleyDavidson or getting involved in activities using Segways. Auckland is also a city for people who love discovering a place of natural beauty on foot including our CBD, waterfront or one of many walking tracks.

Public transport Auckland’s public transport network is a great way to get around the city. From Britomart, the central transport centre, delegates can travel by train or bus to most major attractions in Auckland.

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Conf ident choice Finding the right caterers, entertainment, equipment and people is key to creating a smooth and professional event. In Auckland, you can choose from the country’s largest selection of conference and exhibition services, tailored to your needs.

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CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION SERVICES

Creating a memorable experience for your delegates is the cornerstone of a successful conference or event. The team at Auckland Convention Bureau (ACB) can work with you to create inspirational ideas for your event and help source suppliers for every detail. Audio visual, sound, lighting and technical specialists Auckland has experienced technical specialists with competitive pricing and world-class equipment that can bring your vision to life for any budget. If you are needing companies specialising in event technology solutions there are support services available from registration and on-site support, to sales lead data collection.

Speakers, entertainers and MCs Achieving the perfect balance of fun and entertainment for your business event is crucial in creating the ‘surprise and delight’ that guests remember. We can help you find the right blend of speakers to complement your business programme. From big bands to beautiful soloists. Whether it be a big party in a big venue, or a small intimate affair, there is an entertainment option to suit you.

Conference and exhibition services For organising a conference with a trade exhibition, a roadshow, product launch you need a stunning stand design to showcase your brand and excite customers, ACB can connect you with the specialists.

Caterers Auckland has a reputation for delivering exceptional catering experiences for conferences and events, and whether you are planning a fine dining experience or an event focused on using the finest seasonal and sustainable ingredients, we can recommend a supplier to fit your brief.

Professional conference organisers and event management companies We can recommend a range of Professional Conference Organisers who are experts in the region and will support you with planning and execution, no matter how complex the project. For event styling and design there are many companies in Auckland that give your conference an exciting edge. Event Management companies are also available to help with your event, whether it be transport and logistics, on-site registration, off-site social events – let an expert handle your requirements.

Destination management companies Delivering an exceptional incentive experience for your clients or employees in Auckland is easy with the support of a DMC.

Activity operators, team building and tour guides Auckland has an abundant array of tourist activities and things to do. Make the most of every minute of your day whether it be an adrenaline experience, a challenge for the team, or something more indulgent. There are hundreds of options to excite and inspire.

CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION SERVICES

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Stylish choice Shopping in Auckland is a must for anyone visiting the city. Check out one of the many vibrant shopping precincts offering a world-class collection of boutique and designer stores. Delegates will find some of New Zealand’s best known names and top international labels too.

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SHOPPING

Britomart precinct

Parnell and Newmarket

The historic Britomart precinct on Auckland’s waterfront is home to some of the city’s best shopping. It’s an inviting network of streets, lanes and open spaces where delegates can explore and shop at their leisure. Take advantage of any downtime by exploring Britomart’s treasure trove of fashion, homewares, gift and specialty stores. The precinct’s beautiful heritage buildings house a collection of quirky fashion boutiques, stocking some of the world’s most exciting and cutting-edge designers as well as the best of fresh and established local design talent.

Famed for its boutique style stores, art galleries, cafés and restaurants, Parnell is Auckland’s oldest suburb and it radiates all the charm, character and ambience you would expect. If it’s designer décor and galleries that you’re after, then Parnell is an ideal stop. Jewellers, up-market homeware, antiques, art and fashion stores are all prevalent.

Ponsonby One of Auckland’s hippest strips, Ponsonby Road is packed with funky fashion stores intertwined with chic cafés, bars and restaurants. Ponsonby is the suburb to visit for some lingering lattes, flat whites, mochaccinos and delectable dining.

Parnell is also a delightful dining destination, with its main street lined with tiny colonial villas that have been renovated into delectable restaurants and cafés. The range of international eateries cover everyone’s taste. In the evening, Parnell puts on a party atmosphere at several lively pubs. First-class shopping is to be found on the Broadway strip in Newmarket and in Westfield 277. There is high street shopping on Nuffield and Teed Streets, where you’ll find the likes of some of New Zealand’s top fashion designers including Karen Walker, Zambesi and Kate Sylvester.

SHOPPING

Queen Street From luxury retailers through to New Zealand chain stores and international brands, the main street running through Auckland’s CBD is home to hundreds of stores. Delegates can shop for the latest fashions, sporting gear, electronics, souvenirs, books and almost anything else they’re looking for. There’s also Metro supermarket and Auckland’s premier department store, Smith & Caughey’s.

High Street & Chancery When visiting Auckland, Chancery and High Street in Auckland’s CBD, near the Art Gallery and Albert Park are a must-see. Wander the sunny, cobblestone plaza at Chancery between the high fashion boutiques and delicious eateries. Explore High Street’s stylish local and international boutique and designer stores, and take time out at one of the fashionable bars or cafés.

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Fine choice Auckland serves up an amazing variety of cuisine from around the world. Your delegates can enjoy off-site events with thousands of options of fresh local treats to tantalise their taste buds. You will be spoilt for choice with venues in Auckland, from boutique intimate spaces to large scale event spaces.

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CUISINE

A fresh choice Great cuisine starts with outstanding produce. And you’ll find it everywhere in Auckland, from the region’s numerous farmers’ markets to the best restaurant menus and specialist delicatessens. There’s something to suit all tastes. Treat your delegates to fish and chips on a west coast surf beach, a gourmet picnic on the summit of a volcano or a lunch in a vineyard in the country.

A fine dining choice With thousands of places to eat, from internationally renowned five-star restaurants, to creative cafés, Auckland represents New Zealand cuisine at its most inventive. From traditional to cutting edge, by way of every ethnic style, it’s a foodie heaven.

Choose award winning wine Of course, the perfect complement to fine food is fine wine, and Auckland’s wines don’t disappoint. Auckland has produced award-winning wine since the mid 19th century and the region is now home to nearly 100 vineyards. Waiheke Island has a stellar international reputation. And in every direction you’ll find other wine producing areas to enjoy a tasting and a vineyard lunch: Kumeu, Matakana and the Clevedon Hills – the options are plentiful.

CUISINE

Delicious choices for large or small events Your delegates and groups can enjoy off-site events with thousands of options to treat their taste buds. You will be spoilt for choice from boutique intimate spaces to large scale event venues for hundreds.

Let us help you be creative Talk to our team about the many exciting options available, from private dining rooms for special guests to fun and casual options where your delegates can relax and network.

Check out auckland.com/dining for award-winning Auckland restaurants and top notch food | 41

Easy choice Auckland is by far the best connected city in New Zealand. That means it’s easily accessible to visitors from overseas and from the rest of New Zealand.

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18

CONNECTIONS TO AUCKLAND

International airlines fly direct to Auckland from 32 destinations around the world

23

18

HRS

APPR

10 HRS

HRS

OX TIME

APPR

OX TIME

APPR

3

HRS

OX TIME

APP

ROX TI ME

4

HRS APP

ROX TI ME

Europe Tokyo

Istanbul

Beijing

Dubai

Hong Kong

Seoul

Shanghai Honolulu

Bangkok Kuala Lumpur Singapore

Fiji Dar es Salaam

Johannesburg

Perth

Adelaide Melbourne

• Airline information correct as at January 2015. • Indication of flight times from major international hubs to Auckland, New Zealand.

Sydney

USEFUL INFORMATION

70%

Auckland Airport handles over 70% of all international arrivals into New Zealand

11 HRS APPR

10 HRS APPR

OX TIME

OX TIME

336+

Weekly flights connecting Auckland to the world

Vancouver

New York

San Francisco

Population of New Zealand:

4.4

Los Angeles

Mexico

million

Santiago Population of Auckland

1.5 million

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ADVENTURES IN EVERY DIRECTION

Goat Island

Great Barrier Island

Matakana Kawau Island

Tiritiri Matangi Island

Orewa Whangaparaoa

Takapuna Beach

Kumeu

Rangitoto Island

Waiheke Island

Devonport

Muriwai Beach

Auckland Central

Te Henga Beach Waitakere Ranges Piha Beach

Manukau

Howick Clevedon

Hunua Ranges

Awhitu Peninsula

Pukekohe

USEFUL INFORMATION

West Auckland

North Auckland

Hauraki Gulf and islands

Journey west into a region of natural wonders. Delegates can walk through untouched native rainforest, experience the rugged beauty of the wild west coast beaches and visit Auckland’s oldest wine region.

Head north on a day trip to treat your delegates to the ultimate laid-back lifestyle, where great food and superb wine is served and stunning coastline constantly amazes.

Venture to tranquil islands lined with golden-sand beaches, sip on fine wine on the ‘island of wine’, or let delegates kayak, sail or spot dolphin on the picturesque harbour.

Central Auckland

South Auckland

East Auckland

Central Auckland has it all. From world-class shopping to buzzing waterfront precincts lined with restaurants, a vibrant arts and culture scene to harbour adventures, delegates will enjoy Auckland’s best right on their doorstep.

Auckland’s south is a melting pot of cultures from around the world. Delegates can escape to a place where history, adventure and beautiful landscapes combine.

Discover the east’s sparkling blue waters, the largest native forest in the region, and let delegates indulge at some of Auckland’s top boutique wineries.

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USEFUL INFORMATION

Banks

Currency

Electricity

Languages

Monday to Friday, 9am to 4.30pm. Some banks in shopping centres are also open during the weekend. New Zealand’s main banks are ANZ, ASB, Kiwibank, TSB, and Westpac.

New Zealand dollars ($) and cents (c). There are five notes ($5, $10, $20, $50, $100) and five coins (10c, 20c, 50c, $1, $2).

240V, 50Hz, with Australian/ New Zealand pattern three-pin sockets.

English is the common and everyday language in New Zealand, with Māori also an official language.

Emergency services Customs allowances Climate and seasonality Sitting on the equivalent latitude to San Francisco or Athens in the Northern Hemisphere, Auckland enjoys a mild subtropical climate without extremes of temperature. Temperatures range from 20° to 30° Celsius (60 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit) during the warmer seasons (November to March), and from 10° to 17° Celsius (50 to 63 degrees Fahrenheit) in the cooler seasons (April to October). As the seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere, the longest day is 21 December and the shortest is 21 June. Winter runs through June, July and August with a short autumn (April/May) and spring (September/ October). Summery weather can usually be expected from November to March, with the best weather often between January and March.

Visitors aged over 18 years may bring in 50 cigarettes, 4.5l of wine or beer and three 1.125l bottles of spirits. Goods over NZ$700 may attract duty and tax.

Driving Drive on the left side of the road in New Zealand. All drivers, including visitors from other countries, must carry their licence or permit at all times when driving. Delegates will only be able to drive the same type of vehicles they are licensed to drive in their home country. The common legal age to rent a car in New Zealand is 21.

111 is the emergency phone number for Police, Fire and Ambulance services.

Goods and Services Tax (GST ) New Zealand has a 15% Goods and Services Tax (GST). Overseas visitors cannot claim this back. Some stores may waive GST if delegates show onward or return air tickets, or when international shipment of goods is arranged.

Health and vaccinations No vaccination certificates are required. Public and private hospitals provide a high standard of treatment and care. Medical services are not free to visitors, so travel insurance that covers medical and health is recommended.

Mobile telephones New Zealand operates on a 900 or 1800MHz network, as do most countries except Canada and USA. Mobile telephones from these countries will not operate in New Zealand. Delegates can buy or rent a New Zealand compatible phone or SIM card upon arrival.

Postal services Delegates can buy stamps and post items at Post Shops. Stamps can also be purchased from stationers and many convenience stores. Look for red, black and white post boxes to post letters.

USEFUL INFORMATION

Safety and security

Setting the standard

Smoke-free policies

New Zealand is generally a very safe place to travel, with a relatively low crime rate. It is a democratic and politically stable country, with free elections held every three years. New Zealanders enjoy full civil liberties in terms of freedom of expression, belief, association and personal autonomy.

Qualmark is New Zealand tourism’s official quality assurance organisation. Keep watch for a business with a Qualmark symbol and you can be assured of high quality products and services. This rating means that the business has met strict quality and environmental criteria to achieve New Zealand tourism’s quality mark.

In New Zealand it is illegal to smoke in most indoor spaces, including workplaces, function venues, cinemas, pubs, restaurants and hospitality venues, as well as all public transport. Cigarettes cannot be sold to anyone under 18.

New Zealand society’s high respect for human rights and friendliness toward foreigners, along with the low risk of political instability and internal conflict, are just some of the reasons that it was rated third on the Global Peace Index for 2013. However, it is advisable to observe the same precautions with your personal safety and your possessions as you would in any other country or at home.

Standard shopping hours from Monday to Friday are from 9am to 5pm, with most shopping centres open until 6pm. Some shops and malls are open late on Thursday and Friday to 9pm. On Saturday and Sunday most malls are open normal shopping hours.

Tipping is not expected in New Zealand but delegates may wish to tip for special service or kindness.

Visas Time zone

Shopping

Tipping and service charges

New Zealand Standard Time is 12 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Daylight saving runs from the end of September until early April, when the clocks advance by 1 hour, i.e. GMT +13 hours.

Currently travellers from more than 50 countries do not require a visitor’s visa for stays of less than three months. For further information about visas please visit immigration.govt.nz

aucklandnz.com/conventions | 49

RD APE H A NG ARA

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17

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7

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GREATER AUCKLAND Key Silverdale

West Auckland North Auckland Hauraki Gulf and islands Central Auckland South Auckland

Dairy Flat

East Auckland Venues Venues with accommodation

Torbay

Albany

Rosedale

Motutapu Glenfield

13

Waiheke

Rangitoto

13 Takapuna

Hobsonville Point

Northcote

20 Devonport Auckland CBD Te Atatu Mission Bay

12

Ponsonby

Grey Lynn

8

St Heliers

Orakei Parnell Meadowbank

Newmarket

Henderson

4,5

Mt Albert Avondale New Lynn

9

Glen Innes

Remuera Stonefields

Ellerslie Mt Roskill

Beachlands

Howick

14

Penrose Mt Wellington

Botany Downs Pakuranga

Onehunga

East Tamaki Otahuhu

11 21

Whitford Flatbush

8,9, 12 Mangere

Papatoetoe Brookby

22 Manukau Auckland Airport

Your next choice Inspiring places to meet, inspiring places to explore. In Auckland you can choose to have it all.

Be inspired at aucklandnz.com/conventions | 53

For more information

AUCKLAND CONVENTION BUREAU PO Box 5561 Wellesley Street Auckland 1141, New Zealand E [email protected] P +64 9 365 0592

aucklandnz.com/conventions