The countdown is on for the Hospitality New Zealand Conference and Trade Show, #HNZ25,  with a stellar line-up of speakers and events confirmed for New Zealand’s largest hospitality and  accommodation conference.

Hundreds of sector professionals from across the country are set to travel to Wellington next  month for the two-day event, held on 10-11 June at Wellington’s world-class Tākina Convention  Centre.

Steve Armitage, Hospitality NZ Chief Executive, says #HNZ25 “will bring together operators,  leaders, changemakers, and innovators from New Zealand’s hospitality and accommodation  sectors to explore the event’s theme of ‘Thriving Together.’

“We’re looking forward to welcoming people from every corner of the motu to Wellington for two  days of new insights, ideas and connections.”

#HNZ25’s programme offers something for everyone, with highlights including: 

• Hon. Louise Upston, Minister for Tourism & Hospitality giving an opening address on the  government’s priorities for hospitality and accommodation
• Leading economist Shamubeel Eaqub giving an in-depth outlook on the economic  landscape for hospitality and accommodation
• Tech + AI in hospitality and accommodation, and how automation and data are  reshaping service
• Hon. Nicole McKee on the impact the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act has on the sector
• A hospitality political party spokesperson panel, offering views from major parties on  future regulation.

A range of breakout sessions will also cover topics relevant to the wider hospitality sector,  including:

• The importance of sustainability strategy 
• Looking at the real issues for accommodation, and real ideas to address them
• Labour mobility and skills, immigration settings, training and wellbeing in action
• Regulatory readiness, including leasing, licensing and Sale & Supply of Alcohol Act  updates
• A spotlight on the late-night economy and innovation.

Television host and former Silver Fern Jenny-May Clarkson will MC #HNZ25, keeping the  programme moving and the energy high.

As part of #HNZ25, the Hospitality NZ Awards for Excellence will be held across the two nights,  celebrating both people and businesses, with Radio NZ’s Jesse Mulligan hosting a black-tie  awards event on the final evening.

These awards are the longest-running national awards that honour the achievements of the  hardworking and talented people who are the heart and soul of New Zealand’s accommodation  and food and beverage sectors.

Steve Armitage says #HNZ25 is an important event for the industry: “From future-focused  keynote speakers and hands-on workshops, to a buzzing trade show and black-tie celebrations,  #HNZ25 is where operators tackle the big issues, from digital disruption and workforce  pressures to sustainability and shifting guest demands.

“Attendees will have a chance to connect with, celebrate and learn from their peers, and walk  away with new contacts and ready-to-use ideas to help their businesses thrive.”