The New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) has reached a key milestone, with SkyCity Entertainment Group officially taking occupancy as commissioning begins. The final phase of the $750 million project now focuses on fit-out, testing, and staff training ahead of the venue’s long-anticipated opening in February 2026.
Located in the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, the NZICC is designed to redefine the nation’s business events landscape. The venue will accommodate more than 4,000 delegates across its flexible, vertically stacked spaces, capable of hosting everything from international summits and exhibitions to concerts and intimate meetings. The facility is expected to attract 33,000 international delegates annually, generating an estimated $90 million in new economic activity each year.
A formal blessing led by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei marked the move-in, with a kawanga whare pre-dawn ceremony lifting tapu (restrictions) and setting intentions for the building and its people. The event acknowledged the relationship between community, culture, and place as the venue transitions from construction to activation.
Prue Daly, General Manager of NZICC, said the milestone represents years of collaboration and craftsmanship. “The countdown to February is on and we can’t wait to welcome our first guests,” she said. “With more than 100 events already confirmed for 2026, we’re off to a strong start.”
Developed in partnership with the New Zealand Government, the NZICC will be the only convention facility in the country to carry the FernMark, a symbol of official national endorsement. When fully operational, it will strengthen Auckland’s position as a premier global events destination and act as a catalyst for New Zealand’s wider business events and tourism economy.