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It is the financial and economic powerhouse of New Zealand, contributing 36 per cent of the national gross domestic product.Already recognised as a stunning visitor destination, Auckland is New Zealand’s only international city with 40 per cent of our residents born overseas. We are diverse and inclusive and continually rank near the top in the world for our quality of life. It makes our city an exciting place to live and this vibrancy enables us to compete strongly on the world stage for export revenue, talent and investment.Our city’s reputation in business and its attractive investment opportunities are having a significant impact on our city’s growth. In combination with a growing and talented international population, our city is a great place to meet and exchange ideas.Like many cities around the world, Auckland is experiencing a shift towards a knowledge and service economy and, fuelled by innovation and entrepreneurship, our city is emerging as a knowledge capital in the Asia Pacific region. Auckland competes in the highest value-added segments of the economy and in advanced industries comprising commercial and knowledge intensive services such as engineering and architectural consulting, ICT and technology spanning medical devices and food sciences, agricultural machinery and pharmaceutical manufacturing.These sectors need innovative universities and the economic conditions for entrepreneurship, solid infrastructure, talented workers and connectivity. Auckland provides this through a strong knowledge intensive services sector, a well qualified labour force, top ranked universities, research institutions and medical facilities, and a growing, diverse and internationally-orientated population. As an emerging knowledge capital, Auckland is at the forefront of hosting international business and cultural events. Our world-class infrastructure provided by a professional industry, centralised event facilities and a reputation for superior hospitality sees organisations and world thought leaders choose Auckland to share ideas and innovation. I hope you enjoy discovering what makes Auckland the smart choice for your next business event.Auckland has a thriving economy making it a natural drawcard for people to live, work and play.Discover AucklandMayor Phil GoffSomewhere specialAUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND: • Top 20 city - JLL’s City Momentum Index 2016• World’s 3rd most liveable city - Mercer 2017• Best country in the world to do business - World Bank 2017• 7th safest country to travel - World Economic Forum 2016• World’s 6th most friendliest city – Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2016