The agenda for the conference is shaping up well with an excellent line-up of speakers and moderators from both sides (draft programme here). Following the pattern of previous years, Sunday 20 November ‘tees off’ with a golf tournament as an opportunity for those interested in the networking opportunity this provides, followed by a welcome reception that evening for all delegates. The following morning will start with the all-important NZ Delegate Breakfast, which provides a chance for everyone to introduce themselves as well as receive an overview from our Ambassador and Trade Commissioner. The formal conference sessions and networking events will run thereafter through to around noon on Tuesday 22 November, followed by an industry tour for those who are able to stay on. Details on possible coach transfers from Oita Airport to Beppu, return will be advised once we know arrival/departure details of our delegates.

Essential Points to Note for Entry into Japan:

Please complete the Conference Registration Form and return to us by 30 September – click here.
Please complete the ERFS form and return to us by 05 October - click here
(details on the Business Visa application process are included in the Conference Registration Form)

While entry restrictions into Japan remain fluid and may ease over time (noting Japan has recently lifted the requirement for PCR testing), the requirement for the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (our counterpart organisation) to “sponsor” our NZ delegates attending the conference, as well as the need for delegates to apply for a Business Visa remains an essential requirement for everyone to enter Japan. In practice, this amounts to the JCCI signing a pledge guaranteeing that NZ delegates will comply with Japanese Covid health and safety regulations during their stay in Japan. In return, we have signed a MoU with the JCCI undertaking to ensure that NZ delegates are fully informed of the pledge and accept the need to comply with Japanese rules and requirements. New Zealand delegates need to accept individual responsibility for the costs of any medical treatment that may become necessary should they become ill or be required to isolate in Japan.

Flights
Air NZ is currently flying Auckland to Narita, Tokyo three times per week with both north and southbound departures on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays through to 29 October before changing to Sunday, Wednesday and Friday departures from 30 October through to 27 November. Air New Zealand will increase the frequency to four times per week from 28 November and then six times per week from 12 December before returning to a daily service from 13 February 2023.

Please note that the day after the conference (23 November) is a public holiday.

Hotel
The JCCI have booked the Pastoral Hotel as the venue for the conference. Guest rooms are limited to 50, with priority given to NZ delegates. The hotel booking form is available here.