Connecting the world's microbial ecologists in Auckland

Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland welcomed 1934 scientists and researchers from 62 countries for the 20th International Symposium on Microbial Ecology (ISME20), demonstrating the region's ability to attract a significant international audience for highly specialised scientific events.

Held at the New Zealand International Convention Centre from 16 to 21 August 2026, ISME20 connected New Zealand researchers with leading international experts to exchange knowledge, strengthen research networks and explore advances in a field with far-reaching implications for environmental sustainability, food production, biotechnology and human health.

The symposium's return to Aotearoa New Zealand was particularly significant. The first International Symposium on Microbial Ecology was held in Dunedin in 1977, with ISME20 marking the culmination of a 12-year journey to bring the international community back to the country where the symposium began.

Auckland's combination of conference infrastructure, research capability and collaborative partnerships supported the event from bid through to delivery. Researchers from 11 universities and research institutes across New Zealand and Australia supported the successful bid alongside Tourism New Zealand and Auckland Convention Bureau, while Destination Partnership Programme partner AttendNZ supported delivery on the ground.

ISME20 also left a tangible environmental legacy. Around 120 native plants displayed at the venue were donated after the symposium and planted by Conservation Volunteers New Zealand as part of a stream restoration project in south Auckland.