The conference is expected to attract between 1,000 and 1,200 delegates from around the world for six days at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC). ICCC50 will bring together leading researchers, academics, emerging scientists and industry representatives from across the international coordination chemistry community. 

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 conference 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. 

The bid was supported by the University of Auckland Event Services team, Tourism New Zealand Business Event, Auckland Convention Bureau (ACB), Auckland Advocate Alliance, and the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC). 

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.  

The bidding team's leadership and international standing within the coordination chemistry community were instrumental in securing the event for New Zealand. A strong contingent of New Zealand academics and students attended the recent International Conference on Coordination Chemistry, demonstrating the quality of research being conducted locally.  

"This was a genuine all-of-New Zealand effort," said Professor Hartinger. 

"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 the growing international leadership of researchers in New Zealand 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.