Legacy Tourism Trade Show Expands to Showcase Entire North Island at Eden Park

The eXplore Show, a cornerstone of the New Zealand tourism trade calendar for 16 years, has announced a landmark expansion. In 2027, the annual event will evolve into eXplore Kiwi North NZ, expanding its traditional central regional footprint to encompass all 15 regions of the North Island. The expanded trade show will take place on April 6th, 2027, at Eden Park, Auckland. By welcoming Kiwi North NZ partners alongside the long-standing Central North Island (CNI) collective, the event is set to host well over 100 exhibitors, offering a comprehensive, one-stop platform for inbound tour operators and trade buyers.

Oscar Nathan, Chairman of ECNI and Kiwi North NZ, says the evolution reflects a changing tourism landscape, and a greater need for efficiency and clarity in trade operating networks. "Bringing all 15 North Island regions under one roof at an iconic venue like Eden Park is a game-changer for the industry," says Nathan. "This expansion makes it easier than ever for trade buyers to connect with a diverse range of export-ready products, from seasoned operators and particularly new and exciting market entrants, all in a single day." The event has built a formidable reputation as a "must-attend" fixture because of its precise timing, which aligns perfectly with crucial Inbound Tour Operator (IBO) contracting windows. Exhibiting operators participate at the invitation of their local Regional Tourism Organisations (RTOs) and must meet strict trade-ready criteria.

Head eXplore wrangler Vanessa Payne believes the industry will welcome this exciting development. "It’s a tried-and-true formula," says Payne. "The show timing aligns seamlessly with IBO contracting, and the trade has always loved this relaxed annual event. Feedback already suggests trade will embrace eXplore even more now that we are incorporating our Kiwi North NZ neighbours." Buyer and Seller Registration will open this month.

Event Details:

What: eXplore Kiwi North NZ Trade Show
When: April 6th, 2027
Where: Eden Park, Auckland
Website: exploreshow.co.nz