Auckland to host next World Forum on Early Care and Education

Early childhood practitioners and leaders from around the world will converge on Auckland this time next year for the World Forum on Early Care and Education.

Auckland Convention Bureau (ACB) – a division of Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED) - with support from Tourism New Zealand, worked with New Zealand Tertiary College (NZTC) and the Early Childhood Council to secure the rights to hold this leading international conference in Auckland.

The forum, which will take place from 9-12 May 2017, is expected to attract more than 800 early childhood professionals from around the world to discuss the delivery of quality services to young children.

ACB Manager Anna Hayward says the three-day conference will contribute an estimated $1.2 million to the local economy.

“The benefits of hosting business events like the World Forum on Early Care and Education in Auckland are far-reaching. Beyond the obvious economic value, they bring people together to exchange knowledge and ideas, build business relationships and over the long term can even attract investment and talent flows.”

NZTC Chief Executive Selena Fox says it was New Zealand’s progressive and enthusiastic early childhood community offering support to make the event a success which helped Auckland secure the win over other destinations.

“New Zealand is eager to reach out and make new connections, celebrate global diversity and early childhood initiatives.

“Our welcoming spirit runs deep with New Zealand’s natural warmth, hospitality and stunning scenery creating an environment to embrace early childhood professionals from many different countries.”

Tourism New Zealand Business Events and Premium Manager Lisa Gardiner says targeting the international business events sector is an important part of Tourism New Zealand’s strategy to grow the value of international visitors to New Zealand.

“Business events have the potential to spread visitors across the off-peak season, support employment and bring significant economic benefit to the country.”

Auckland Convention Bureau markets Auckland, on behalf of Auckland Council, as a destination for meetings, incentives, conventions and events. Find out more at aucklandnz.com/conventions or email [email protected].

NOTES TO THE EDITOR

• Auckland Convention Bureau is part of ATEED – Auckland’s economic growth agency, and an Auckland Council Controlled Organisation.
• The Auckland Business Events Plan was launched in August 2014. The plan’s target is to grow the value of the sector from $236 million in 2013 to $430 million annually by 2023.
• Tourism New Zealand manages the Conference Assistance Programme (CAP) which provides support for anyone considering hosting an international conference in New Zealand.
• Registrations are open now for the World Forum on Early Care and Education here
• Watch the welcome video here: www.nztertiarycollege.ac.nz/worldforum