The opening of Auckland’s long-awaited New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) is being seen as a major chance to get more locals into work, according to Minister of Social Development Louise Upston.
With the multi-purpose venue set to open in February 2026, the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) is working with SkyCity to help fill the hundreds of roles expected to be available when the doors open.
Upston described the new convention space as “a jewel in New Zealand’s infrastructure”, saying it will attract major conferences, exhibitions, and live events.
“With the strong pipeline of events that NZICC already has confirmed, we know there are going to be many job opportunities and MSD will be working closely with SkyCity to help fill permanent and part-time roles, drawing on the talent profiles it holds for Auckland’s job seekers,” she said.
“MSD’s relationship with the NZICC and other Auckland employers enables a skilled pipeline of local employees for local jobs in many different roles – many supporting the tourism and hospitality sector.”
She said tourism and hospitality continue to be key parts of the economy. “Tourism and hospitality are important career paths for New Zealanders and are key parts of growing our economy. This will continue to be important for the Government as we look to increase our investment in the tourism sector and boost international visitor numbers.”
According to MSD, more than half (52%) of people receiving Jobseeker Support in Auckland are moderately to highly skilled, with experience in logistics, transport, manufacturing, hospitality, tourism, and retail.
“These are people who will have skills transferrable to tourism jobs and other sectors which support tourism growth. With experience already under their belts, they’re ready to hit the ground running in new roles,” Upston said.
The minister was in Auckland for the latest of MSD’s Into Work events, which bring together employers and job seekers to create employment opportunities.
“Working with MSD, employers at these Into Work events say they find the right people for the job and get support for new employees with a smooth transition into work and long-term success,” Upston said.
“MSD is really stepping up to the mark as a modern, fit for purpose employment service. Its frontline staff are doing great work.”
