In 2026, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment commissioned MartinJenkins to independently review how New Zealand's events system works. From major public events and international business events through to regional and community events, to identify what's needed to build a more coordinated, future-ready system.

The review found that while New Zealand has real strengths as an events destination, a strong reputation, proven delivery capability, and committed people across government, industry and communities, the system currently relies too heavily on informal coordination rather than clear strategy, shared pipeline visibility, and coordinated investment. As international competition for major events becomes more sophisticated, the review concluded that New Zealand risks losing high-value opportunities.

The review recommends a staged pathway, starting with a National Events Strategy, a shared pipeline and calendar, clearer investment principles and practical regulatory guidance, before moving toward a more coordinated, better-resourced system over time. To be clear, this is an independent report to government, not yet confirmed policy, but it sets a clear direction for the sector.

NZEA will be closely involved as this work develops, including in the design of the National Events Strategy and the early steps toward a shared national events pipeline. We'll keep members and the wider sector updated here as things progress.