Christchurch secures major international medical conference

Christchurch has secured the prestigious International Society for Pneumonia and Pneumococcal Diseases (ISPPD) Biennial Meeting in 2028, bringing one of the world's leading infectious disease conferences to New Zealand and reinforcing the city's growing reputation as a destination for high-impact international scientific events.

The 15th meeting of the International Society for Pneumonia & Pneumoccal Diseases coming to Christchurch 2028

The conference, to be held in Christchurch from 5 – 9 March 2028 at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, is expected to attract 1,000 leading researchers, clinicians, public health experts and healthcare professionals from around the world to discuss the latest advances in the prevention, treatment and understanding of pneumonia and pneumococcal diseases.

Major international conference boosts Christchurch business events

The successful bid is a major win for Christchurch and New Zealand's health and research sectors, delivering significant economic benefits while creating opportunities for local researchers, clinicians and students to engage with global leaders in infectious disease research.

"Hosting the world's leading pneumonia conference recognises New Zealand's contribution to infectious diseases research and provides a unique opportunity to showcase our science, strengthen global collaborations, and help advance efforts to reduce the burden of pneumonia worldwide."

Professors Tony Walls and David Murdoch – Co-Chairs for ISPPD 2028

Conference strengthens Christchurch’s growing healthtech sector

The event recognises Christchurch's growing role as a centre for health and medical research. Local experts have made internationally significant contributions across infectious diseases, respiratory health, vaccination and public health, making Christchurch a fitting host city for a conference of this scale and importance.

“Hosting ISPPD provides an opportunity to showcase Christchurch’s world-class conference infrastructure, our renowned health and research community, and the collaborative spirit that makes this city an outstanding place to meet, learn, and explore.”

Bree Jones, Business Events Manager - ChristchurchNZ

"We can't wait to welcome the ISPPD community to Christchurch in 2028. Delegates will experience a city that is ambitious, innovative and connected to the world – an ideal setting for conversations and collaborations that have the potential to improve lives globally."

Key takeaways

Global recognition: Christchurch will host the world's leading pneumonia conference in 2028, attracting around 1,000 international delegates.
Economic and knowledge impact: The event will boost the local economy while connecting New Zealand researchers with global leaders.
Healthtech sector growth: The conference showcases Christchurch's strength in health, medical research and innovation, reinforcing its position as a leading healthtech destination.
Find out more about hosting a conference in Christchurch.