Auckland wins bid to host International Reading Association World Congress

Auckland has won the bid to host the International Reading Association’s 23rd World Congress in 2010.

The successful bid was a joint project between Conventions and Incentives New Zealand, SKYCITY Auckland Convention Centre and Tourism Auckland, working closely with Heather Bell, the principal of Rosebank School and respected leader in literacy and education.

The congress will take place at the SKYCITY Auckland Convention Centre in July 2010, utilising the infrastructure available during the off-season and bringing a boost to the industry in the winter months. With 1500 delegates attending from around the world, the conference will bring more than 7,300 delegate days and $5.525 million to the region.

Tourism Auckland chief executive Graeme Osborne is delighted with the win.

“Tourism Auckland works closely with our partner organisations to bid for events likely to benefit the region’s hotels and venues. We’re pleased that such a prestigious conference has been secured for Auckland,” he says.

“This is a great example of working together with our partners to secure a win against rigorous international competition.”

The New Zealand Reading Association, an affiliate of the International Reading Association, hosted a world congress in Auckland in 2000, successfully demonstrating the ability to work with convention and exhibition staff to promote New Zealand's education and tourism sectors.

Both Singapore and Australia submitted bids for the International Reading Association World Congress. This is only the second time the Congress has been held in New Zealand.