Better Events.

Greener Gatherings, Brighter Futures.

About Better Events.

The Better Events Collective is a passionate group of event organisers, suppliers, sustainability advocates, and local government representatives working together to reshape how events are run in the Queenstown-Lakes District. Established in February 2025 and facilitated by Wao, the Collective is on a mission to create events that do good for both people and planet. Through collaboration, shared resources, and a commitment to zero waste, the Collective champions innovation and systemic change—empowering the sector to lead by example and create meaningful, lasting impact.

Meet Kelcey.

With over two decades of experience in the events industry, both locally and abroad, Kelcey Radford has recently joined the Wao team as the facilitator for the Better Events Collective.

The Collective will work as a cluster to facilitate and coordinate collective action on waste minimisation and emissions reduction for events in the Queenstown Lakes District. All are welcome. If you are interested in joining the working group, please contact Kelcey.

Our Vision.

An inclusive Queenstown-Lakes District events sector that puts people first and has a positive social impact for all stakeholders.

Events act as catalysts for change by championing innovation, collaboration, circular practices, and zero waste. By building a values-driven ecosystem grounded in shared knowledge and collective action, we lead by example to drive transformation.

Our Mission.

The Better Events Collective aims to drive meaningful change across the events ecosystem by fostering collaboration, advancing advocacy, promoting circular economy practices, and delivering education.

Through shared knowledge, partnerships, and collective action, we support the sector to reduce its impact and create more sustainable, future-focused events.

Upcoming events.

Blog.

Speakers.

Regenerative and Resilient.

Events that foster social cohesion, and have a positive impact on environment and community

Circular
Economy.

Foster innovation to support the transition to a zero waste, circular events economy

Partnership and Collaboration.

An inclusive events eco-system voice to accelerate transformative change

Key Partners.

Keen to get involved?

Get in touch to find out more or join the collective: events@wao.co.nz

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