New Zealand bids to host World Congress

Media release

New Zealand bids to host World Congress

New Zealand is in the running for the largest conference the country has ever hosted, an event that could bring millions in economic benefit.

New Zealand Society of Anaesthetists President Rob Carpenter says the society is competing against up to four other nations in its bid to host the 17th World Congress of Anaesthesiologists in Auckland in 2020.

If successful, Auckland will be hosting up to 9,000 anaesthetists from around the world at a conference which would be three times larger than any other held in New Zealand previously.

Bidders must be able to not only cater for the number of delegates, but also provide 10,000 square metres (one hectare) of floor space for exhibitors and 9000 hotel beds.

Dr Carpenter says the support of neighbouring countries, along with that of several notable New Zealanders is invaluable.

The bid is also supported by senior academics in health and medical law including barrister Bruce Corkill QC, an Honorary Member of the NZSA and Chairperson of the New Zealand Health Practitioners Tribunal and Ron Paterson ONZM, former Health and Disability Commissioner and now Professor of Health Law and Policy at the University of Auckland, and Kevin Roberts, Saatchi and Saatchi Worldwide Chief Executive Officer.

New Zealand will be competing against the United Kingdom, Czech Republic, and the United States to host the prestigious conference but Dr Carpenter says New Zealand has a great head start.

“The Rugby World Cup has proved New Zealand can foot it with the best when it comes to hosting international events, and while this conference is on a much smaller scale, we have proved we have the necessary security and infrastructure to support large international events.”

The conference will focus on best practice in the complex and high tech world of anaesthesia and give delegates an opportunity to share information and help developing countries, he says.
Dr Carpenter says the conference is focused on education and safety. It provides opportunities for other closely related professions to be included in the scientific programme.

“Anaesthetists are service providers across the surgical, paediatric and obstetric fields. The military, veterinary science, dentistry, midwifery, anaesthetic technology and nursing professions all use anaesthesia and/or sedation in their practices and this conference will look to integrate all those disciplines in the education programme,” he says.

Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive Kevin Bowler says international conferences are a great opportunity to showcase what New Zealand has to offer, and provide significant economic spin-offs for the country.

“Research shows that international conference delegates spend up to three times more and stay longer than the average holidaying tourist.

“Our involvement in the business events sector to attract conference and incentive visitors is part of Tourism New Zealand’s focus on increasing the number of high-value, long-stay visitors.

The Congress bid is only possible because of the announced development of the new Auckland International Convention Centre.

New Zealand will present their bid at the 15th WFSA conference in Buenos Aires next March. The final decision will be announced at the conclusion of the conference.

ENDS

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