New Zealand's largest international tourism trade event started in Auckland on Monday, giving the industry an opportunity to promote its products and boost returns.

The annual four-day program would give tourism businesses the opportunity to meet buyers from international markets, reported NZPA.

About 1,200 people are expected to attend, including 260 providers of accommodation, transport, activities and attraction.

About 270 international buyers were attending Trenz to purchase products at wholesale rates, to include them in brochures, websites, and itineraries for the coming seasons.

Tourism Industry Association chief executive Tim Cossar told NZPA the event played an important part in the industry, which was recovering from the most challenging times in the last 20 years.

Struggling international economies would continue to be a challenge for the industry.

Event highlights include updates about the Rugby World Cup 2011 and 63 exhibitors offering new "innovative and exciting" products.

Trenz is managed by the association in partnership with Tourism New Zealand, Air New Zealand and other industry supporters.