Coordination chemistry helps drive advances that shape modern life, from new medicines and cleaner manufacturing processes to new materials and renewable energy technologies.
The successful bid was led by Professor Christian Hartinger from the University of Auckland, supported by co-chairs Professor Sally Brooker and Professor James Crowley from the University of Otago, and Professor Robin Fulton from Victoria University of Wellington.
Securing ICCC50 represents a significant achievement for New Zealand’s scientific community and further strengthens the country’s reputation as a destination for world-class international conferences, research collaboration and scientific innovation.
New Zealand’s successful bid presented a compelling case built on the strength of its scientific community, the collaborative nature of its research environment, and a shared commitment to delivering a world-class conference experience. The bid reflected a truly national effort, bringing together researchers and institutions from across the country in support of a common vision.
The bid was supported through a strong partnership between New Zealand’s universities and business events sector, including the University of Auckland Event Services team, Auckland Convention Bureau (ACB), Auckland Advocate Alliance, Tourism New Zealand Business Events and the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC).
The bidding team’s leadership and international standing within the coordination chemistry community were instrumental in securing the event for New Zealand. The bid also highlighted the depth and breadth of coordination chemistry research being undertaken across New Zealand. A strong contingent of New Zealand academics and students attended the recent International Conference on Coordination Chemistry, demonstrating both the quality of research being conducted locally and New Zealand’s active engagement within the global scientific community. Their presence showcased a vibrant and highly connected research ecosystem spanning multiple institutions and disciplines.
“This was a genuine all-of-New Zealand effort. Our bid showcased not only the quality of coordination chemistry research being undertaken across the country, but also the collaborative nature of New Zealand science and our engagement with the international research community.”
“ICCC50 represents much more than a conference. It is an opportunity to inspire the next generation of coordination chemists, strengthen international partnerships, and showcase New Zealand’s research excellence, innovation and unique culture to colleagues from around the world. We look forward to welcoming delegates to Auckland and creating connections that will benefit researchers, institutions and scientific collaboration long after the conference concludes.”
The announcement of ICCC50 builds on New Zealand researchers’ growing international leadership in the field. Prior to hosting ICCC50, the team led by Professor Hartinger will also host the Asian Coordination Chemistry Conference (ACCC12) in 2028 at the University of Auckland, further raising New Zealand’s profile within the global chemistry community.
Beyond its academic impact, ICCC50 is expected to generate substantial economic and reputational benefits for Auckland and New Zealand, attracting high-value international visitors and fostering long-term international partnerships. The successful bid highlights the strength of collaboration across New Zealand’s research sector, universities, and the business events industry in attracting major international conferences that deliver lasting benefits for science, education, and the wider economy. Beyond 2034, ICCC50 is expected to help strengthen international research networks, support emerging scientific talent and further position New Zealand as a globally connected hub for research excellence and innovation.
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