50 Best New Zealand Emcees (2026)

Finding the best MC for your next event in New Zealand can feel overwhelming. With dozens of corporate event hosts, wedding MCs, and professional emcees scattered across directories, bureaus, and agencies, how do you know who will actually deliver a memorable moment for your audience?

This directory cuts through the noise. Whether you're planning a gala dinner in Auckland, a corporate function in Wellington, or a conference in Christchurch, the right professional master of ceremonies can transform your event from forgettable to unforgettable.

After analysing the top search results, speaker bureaus, and entertainment directories across New Zealand, I've compiled this comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect fit speakers and hosts for any occasion. This resource serves business owners, event planners, and anyone searching for the most reliable MC to create a memorable experience.

What Makes a Great Event MC?

Before diving into the directory, here's what separates exceptional emcees from average ones:

Stage presence and energy management. The best MC reads the room and adjusts accordingly. They know when to lift energy before the dance floor opens and when to bring gravitas to a keynote introduction. Complete crowd engagement requires this instinct.

Timing and program control. Your MC owns the run sheet. They keep speakers on track, manage transitions, and ensure your event flows seamlessly. This is especially critical for corporate conferences where every minute counts.

Preparation and communication. Top professionals invest in open communication before your event. They brief with speakers, understand your organisation's culture, and arrive ready to represent your brand authentically.

Adaptability under pressure. Technical failures, late speakers, and unexpected moments happen. The most reliable MC handles these with grace, keeping your wedding guests or corporate audience unaware that anything went wrong.

Decades of experience matter. Public speaking at this level requires thousands of hours of practice. Look for professionals with proven track records across similar events.

If you're planning a corporate event, conference, or gala dinner and want help navigating these options, contact Jonno White at jonno@consultclarity.org. As a keynote speaker with listeners in 150+ countries through The Leadership Conversations Podcast, Jonno brings global experience to MC engagements and can work with your team virtually or fly to New Zealand for face to face delivery.

How to Choose the Right MC for Your Event

Match expertise to event type. A wedding MC who excels at keeping the dance floor packed may not suit a corporate function requiring business insights and professional polish. Celebrity speakers who shine at gala dinners may feel out of place at intimate team events. If you're unsure what type of MC fits your needs, email jonno@consultclarity.org to discuss your specific situation.

Verify credentials independently. Previous clients' reviews matter, but dig deeper. Ask for video samples, check their website for a high-quality video showreel, and request references from events similar to yours.

Understand pricing structures. The cost of hiring emcees varies dramatically. Budget-level suppliers may suit smaller gatherings, while top-tier suppliers command premium rates for larger venues and high-stakes events. The average price for professional MCs in New Zealand ranges significantly based on experience and event complexity.

Consider the whole process. The best way to evaluate an MC is to experience their communication style firsthand. How responsive are they? Do they ask intelligent questions about your event? A messaging system exchange reveals professionalism.

Don't assume local is always better. Many organisations discover that flying in an international facilitator costs less than engaging high-profile local providers. Jonno White, for example, regularly travels to New Zealand for keynotes, workshops, and MC engagements, and clients are consistently surprised at how affordable international options can be. Email jonno@consultclarity.org to discuss MC services for your upcoming event.

Featured: International MC Available for New Zealand Events

1. Jonno White — Brisbane, Australia (Works Globally)

Jonno White is a Certified Working Genius Facilitator, bestselling author, and experienced MC who has spent over 200 hours interviewing top leaders on The Leadership Conversations Podcast. With listeners in 150+ countries and 230+ episodes featuring guests like Guy Kawasaki, Jonno brings exceptional interviewing skills to panel moderation and event hosting.

His book Step Up or Step Out (https://www.amazon.com.au/Step-Up-Out-Difficult-Conflict/dp/B097X7B5LD) has sold over 10,000 copies globally, establishing his authority on leadership communication. At the ASBA 2025 National Conference, his Working Genius masterclass achieved a 93.75% satisfaction rating.

Jonno works with schools, corporates, and nonprofits across the UK, India, Canada, Singapore, South Africa, the United States, Finland, Namibia, and New Zealand. Having him travel to New Zealand for face to face work is often far more affordable than clients expect. Many organisations find that flying Jonno in costs less than engaging well-known local providers.

Website: consultclarity.org

Specialty: Keynote speaking, MC services, Working Genius facilitation, executive team offsites

Best for: Corporate conferences, leadership summits, annual meetings, and organisations wanting a proven professional with global experience

Contact: jonno@consultclarity.org to book Jonno to MC your event in New Zealand

Corporate and Conference MCs

2. Tim McCready — Auckland, New Zealand

Tim McCready has moderated the APEC CEO Summit, hosted Deloitte Top 200 Awards, and facilitated conversations with Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern at the APEC Voices of the Future Summit. His client list includes Deloitte New Zealand, PwC, and NZ Herald, making him one of New Zealand's most credentialed corporate hosts.

Tim specialises in political and business forums where gravitas matters. He's hosted Project Auckland luncheons, Mood of the Boardroom political breakfasts, and post-budget panels for decades of experience at the highest levels of New Zealand business and government.

Website: Contact via event organisers

Specialty: Summit moderation, political forums, business panels

Best for: Government events, corporate boards, high-stakes political and business gatherings

3. Chris Lam Sam — Wellington, Auckland, Christchurch

Chris Lam Sam brings artistic flair to corporate hosting, with clients including Te Papa Tongarewa, NZ Symphony Orchestra, Royal NZ Ballet, and Spark Digital. His testimonials from senior executives highlight his ability to balance professionalism with genuine warmth, creating a memorable experience for audiences.

Based in Wellington but working nationwide, Chris offers both quizmaster and entertainment services alongside traditional MC duties. His background in performance arts translates to exceptional stage presence.

Website: chrislamsam.com

Specialty: Arts and culture events, corporate launches, entertainment hosting

Best for: Creative industries, cultural organisations, companies wanting refined hosting

4. Doug Kamo — Dunedin, New Zealand

Doug Kamo operates DKCM Ltd (Doug Kamo Creative Management) and brings 25+ years of experience to conference and awards hosting. Based in Dunedin, he's worked with major corporate brands and specialises in entertainment production alongside MC services.

His southern base makes him particularly accessible for South Island events while maintaining a national profile.

Website: Contact via DKCM Ltd

Specialty: Conference MC, awards nights, entertainment production

Best for: South Island events, corporate conferences, organisations wanting production expertise

5. David Todd (Toddy) — Hastings, New Zealand

David Todd, known as Toddy, operates Toddy Talks and has hosted events for FANZ Conference, Landcorp Biennial Conference, and Farmlands Awards. His niche expertise in rural and agribusiness sectors makes him the ultimate choice for primary industries.

Based in Hastings, he understands regional New Zealand business culture in ways that metropolitan MCs may not.

Website: toddytalks.com

Specialty: Rural conferences, agribusiness awards, regional events

Best for: Primary industries, regional organisations, agricultural sector events

6. Nick Tansley — New Zealand

Represented by Celebrity Speakers NZ, Nick Tansley brings television credibility from shows including Top Town and It's in the Bag plus extensive radio experience. His media background translates to polished delivery and audience engagement that keeps energy high.

Website: Via Celebrity Speakers NZ

Specialty: Television personality hosting, entertainment events

Best for: Awards nights, entertainment industry events, organisations wanting media profile

7. Jono and Ben — Auckland, New Zealand

This duo, represented by Johnson & Laird, brings comedy credibility from seven years hosting their eponymous TV show plus Vodafone NZ Music Awards hosting experience. They've won NZ's Best Comedy and offer a unique entertainment-driven approach to corporate events.

Their dual-host format works exceptionally well for awards nights and gala dinners where energy and humour matter.

Website: Via Johnson & Laird (johnsonlaird.co.nz)

Specialty: Comedy MC, awards nights, entertainment events

Best for: Awards ceremonies, music industry events, companies wanting celebrity entertainment

8. Darryl Lovegrove — Sydney, Australia (Services New Zealand)

Darryl Lovegrove operates Lovegrove Event Entertainment from Sydney and regularly works New Zealand corporate events. As co-creator of The Three Waiters and a music theatre performer, he brings production values that transform standard events into theatrical experiences.

His agency provides complete event entertainment solutions including DJs, bands, and customised shows alongside MC services.

Website: darryllovegrove.com

Specialty: Theatrical hosting, music theatre entertainment, production-quality events

Best for: Gala dinners, awards nights, companies wanting spectacular entertainment integration

Still comparing options for your corporate event? Contact Jonno White at jonno@consultclarity.org to discuss MC services for your situation. With experience across multiple continents and industries, Jonno can help you determine exactly what type of host will create lasting impact for your audience.

Comedy and Entertainment MCs

9. Michele A'Court ONZM — New Zealand

One of New Zealand's most awarded comedians, Michele A'Court holds the ONZM distinction and is represented by Celebrity Speakers NZ. Her comedy background ensures your event moves with energy and laughter while maintaining professional standards.

Website: Via Celebrity Speakers NZ (csnz.co.nz)

Specialty: Comedy MC, awards nights, corporate entertainment

Best for: Events wanting sophisticated humour, women's leadership events, charity fundraiser galas

10. Tony Lyall — New Zealand

Described as one of New Zealand's busiest comedians, Tony Lyall brings high-energy entertainment to corporate events. His reputation for reliability makes him a safe choice for organisations wanting guaranteed laughs without risk.

Website: Via Celebrity Speakers NZ

Specialty: Comedy MC, corporate entertainment

Best for: Team events, awards nights, organisations wanting proven comedy

11. Rhys Mathewson — New Zealand

Award-winning comedian and MC Rhys Mathewson combines stand-up experience with hosting polish. His approach works particularly well for younger corporate audiences and tech industry events.

Website: Via Celebrity Speakers NZ

Specialty: Comedy MC, contemporary humour

Best for: Tech companies, younger demographics, modern corporate culture

12. Fergus Aitken — Wellington, New Zealand

Based in Wellington, Fergus Aitken offers MC and comedian services through PME Entertainment Agents. His comedy background ensures events stay lively while his professional experience keeps programs on track.

Website: Via BandsForHire (bandsforhire.co.nz)

Specialty: Comedy MC, Wellington events

Best for: Wellington corporate functions, events wanting local comedy talent

13. Mike Loder — Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland-based comedian Mike Loder provides MC services through PME Entertainment Agents. His combination of comedy and hosting experience suits events wanting entertainment value alongside program management.

Website: Via BandsForHire

Specialty: Comedy MC, Auckland corporate events

Best for: Auckland-based functions, comedy-forward events

14. Ben Hurley — New Zealand

Ben Hurley brings comedian credentials to MC work, offering energetic hosting for corporate events. His comedy circuit experience translates to polished stage presence and audience engagement.

Website: Via speaker bureaus

Specialty: Comedy MC, high-energy hosting

Best for: Awards nights, team celebrations, events wanting comedy expertise

15. Jeremy Elwood — New Zealand

Represented by Celebrity Speakers NZ, Jeremy Elwood offers comedian MC services for corporate events. His television appearances and stand-up background provide credibility and entertainment value.

Website: Via Celebrity Speakers NZ

Specialty: Comedy MC, television personality

Best for: Entertainment industry events, corporate functions wanting profile

16. Melanie Bracewell — New Zealand

Comedian, writer, and radio announcer Melanie Bracewell brings multi-platform experience to MC work. Her contemporary appeal connects particularly well with younger audiences.

Website: Via Celebrity Speakers NZ

Specialty: Comedy MC, radio personality

Best for: Media events, youth-focused organisations, contemporary brands

17. Kim Potter — Wellington, New Zealand

Wellington-based Kim Potter combines comedy and magic for a unique MC offering through PME Entertainment Agents. This dual capability suits events wanting entertainment integrated with hosting.

Website: Via BandsForHire

Specialty: Comedy and magic MC

Best for: Family events, unique entertainers requirements, Wellington functions

18. Piotr from Uzbekoslavia — Wellington, New Zealand

This Wellington-based comedy MC offers character-driven hosting through PME Entertainment Agents. The unique persona suits events wanting memorable, unconventional entertainment.

Website: Via BandsForHire

Specialty: Comedy character MC

Best for: Creative events, unconventional corporate functions

19. Rick Sahar — Wellington, New Zealand

Rick Sahar provides comedy MC services from Wellington through PME Entertainment Agents. His comedy circuit background ensures professional entertainment delivery.

Website: Via BandsForHire

Specialty: Comedy MC

Best for: Wellington events, comedy-focused functions

Looking for an MC who can bring both professionalism and personality to your next event? Jonno White, host of The Leadership Conversations Podcast with 230+ episodes, combines interviewing expertise with stage presence developed across global keynotes. Email jonno@consultclarity.org to discuss how Jonno can MC your conference or gala dinner in New Zealand.

Wedding and Social Event MCs

20. Aaron Bloomfield — Grey Lynn, Auckland

Aaron Bloomfield offers the ultimate all-in-one wedding solution: celebrant, MC, singer, and DJ. Based in Grey Lynn, Auckland, his integrated approach means seamless wedding day coordination without multiple vendor handoffs.

His testimonials highlight his ability to keep wedding guests engaged throughout the reception while managing the special day's many moving parts.

Website: aaronbloomfield.com

Specialty: All-in-one wedding services

Best for: Couples wanting simplified vendor management, Auckland weddings

21. Anna Moroz (Weddinggirl) — West Harbour, Auckland

Operating as Weddinggirl, Anna Moroz combines wedding MC services with coordination and planning. As a member of Celebrants' Association of NZ, she brings professional credentials alongside practical expertise.

Her services include reception planning, vendor coordination, and interactive activities to keep wedding guests entertained.

Website: weddinggirl.co.nz

Specialty: Wedding MC and coordination

Best for: Couples wanting MC plus planning support, Auckland weddings

22. Carla Rotondo — Western Springs, Auckland

Carla Rotondo offers celebrant and MC services from Western Springs, Auckland. Her combined offering suits couples wanting consistent presence from ceremony through reception.

Website: Via My Wedding Guide

Specialty: Celebrant and wedding MC

Best for: Auckland weddings wanting ceremony-to-reception continuity

23. Jacqueline Nairn — Auckland, New Zealand

Jacqueline Nairn provides celebrant and MC services across Auckland. Her dual qualification ensures smooth transitions between ceremony and reception.

Website: jacquelinenairncelebrant.co.nz

Specialty: Celebrant and wedding MC

Best for: Auckland weddings, couples wanting unified service

24. James Wang — Rosedale, Auckland

James Wang offers celebrant and MC services from Rosedale, Auckland. His combined capability provides continuity across wedding ceremonies and receptions.

Website: Via My Wedding Guide

Specialty: Celebrant and wedding MC

Best for: North Auckland weddings

25. Melody Kee — Wattle Downs, Auckland

Melody Kee provides celebrant and MC services with multilingual capability in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese. This language flexibility suits Auckland's diverse communities.

Website: Via My Wedding Guide

Specialty: Multilingual wedding MC and celebrant

Best for: Multicultural weddings, Chinese-speaking families

26. Rochelle Heale — Torbay, Auckland

Rochelle Heale offers celebrant and MC services from Torbay on Auckland's North Shore. Her location provides convenient access for North Shore and Hibiscus Coast weddings.

Website: Via My Wedding Guide

Specialty: Celebrant and wedding MC

Best for: North Shore Auckland weddings

27. Phil Moon — Warkworth, Auckland

Phil Moon provides marriage celebrant and MC services from Warkworth, north of Auckland. His tagline emphasises relaxed, smooth-running events.

Website: Via DIA directory

Specialty: Celebrant and wedding MC

Best for: Matakana, Warkworth, and northern Auckland weddings

28. Tasha Bowen (Celebrate Your Way) — Birkdale, Auckland

Tasha Bowen's Celebrate Your Way service boasts over 450 five-star reviews and 2025 Premium Winner Wedding Vendor of the Year status. These credentials suggest consistent quality.

Website: Via My Wedding Guide

Specialty: Celebrant services

Best for: Couples prioritising proven track record

29. Scott Eichler (Sounzgood DJs) — New Zealand

Scott Eichler provides wedding MC services through Sounzgood DJ Entertainment. His DJ background ensures seamless integration between hosting and music throughout the reception.

Website: Via Sounzgood DJ Entertainment

Specialty: Wedding MC and DJ

Best for: Weddings wanting integrated MC and music services

30. Matt (EMCEE DJ Canterbury) — Christchurch, New Zealand

Matt operates EMCEE DJ Canterbury from Christchurch, combining MC services with DJ and quizmaster capabilities. His Canterbury base makes him the go-to for South Island weddings and events.

His services extend to pub quizzes and charity fundraiser events, demonstrating versatility beyond weddings.

Website: emcee.nz

Specialty: Wedding MC, DJ, quizmaster

Best for: Christchurch weddings, South Island events, quiz night fundraisers

For your corporate conferences, gala dinners, or leadership events requiring an MC with genuine business expertise, reach out to Jonno White at jonno@consultclarity.org. As founder of The 7 Questions Movement with 6,000+ leaders participating globally, Jonno White brings substance that typical entertainers cannot match.

Whether you're planning a wedding or corporate celebration in New Zealand, having the right MC transforms your event. If you want someone with global experience and proven expertise, contact Jonno White at jonno@consultclarity.org. Don't assume working with an international MC is out of reach. Jonno regularly travels to New Zealand and clients are often surprised at how affordable it is.

Media Personality and Celebrity MCs

31. Hilary Barry — New Zealand

Hilary Barry brings television credibility to MC engagements, represented by speaker bureaus. Her household name recognition adds profile to events while her broadcasting experience ensures polished delivery.

Website: Via speaker bureaus

Specialty: Television personality MC

Best for: High-profile awards, media industry events

32. Jesse Mulligan — New Zealand

Jesse Mulligan offers MC services backed by extensive television and radio experience. His media profile suits events wanting recognisable hosts with proven presentation skills.

Website: Via speaker bureaus

Specialty: Television and radio personality MC

Best for: Media events, organisations wanting celebrity recognition

33. Patrick Gower — New Zealand

Political journalist Patrick Gower brings media credibility and gravitas to corporate MC work. His journalism background suits events with political or business content.

Website: Via speaker bureaus

Specialty: Journalist MC, political events

Best for: Political functions, business forums, media industry events

34. Kerre Woodham — New Zealand

Kerre Woodham offers MC services with extensive radio and media experience. Her profile suits events wanting a trusted voice with broad audience appeal.

Website: Via speaker bureaus

Specialty: Media personality MC

Best for: Awards nights, charity events, broad-audience functions

35. Nadine Higgins — New Zealand

Nadine Higgins brings broadcasting experience to MC engagements. Her professional presentation skills translate well to corporate hosting.

Website: Via speaker bureaus

Specialty: Broadcaster MC

Best for: Corporate events, professional gatherings

36. Mike Puru — New Zealand

Mike Puru offers MC services with entertainment industry credibility. His energy and presentation style suit events wanting engaging, upbeat hosting.

Website: Via speaker bureaus

Specialty: Entertainment personality MC

Best for: Awards nights, entertainment events

37. Toni Street — New Zealand

Represented by Johnson & Laird, Toni Street brings television hosting experience to MC work. Her broadcasting background ensures professional, polished delivery.

Website: Via Johnson & Laird

Specialty: Television personality MC

Best for: High-profile awards, corporate events

38. Laura McGoldrick — New Zealand

Laura McGoldrick offers MC services through Johnson & Laird representation. Her media experience provides credibility for corporate and entertainment events.

Website: Via Johnson & Laird

Specialty: Media personality MC

Best for: Sports events, corporate functions

39. Art Green — New Zealand

Art Green brings television personality and wellness credibility to MC engagements through Johnson & Laird. His profile suits health and lifestyle industry events.

Website: Via Johnson & Laird

Specialty: Personality MC, wellness events

Best for: Health industry events, lifestyle brands

For your next event requiring an MC with genuine expertise in leadership and business, consider Jonno White. As founder of The 7 Questions Movement with 6,000+ leaders participating globally, Jonno brings substance alongside presentation skills. Contact jonno@consultclarity.org to book Jonno for your New Zealand event.

Entertainer and Specialty MCs

40. Tom Thum — Represented in New Zealand

Billed as "THE Master of Ceremony" despite being primarily a beatboxer and entertainer, Tom Thum offers unique entertainment-driven hosting through Celebrity Speakers NZ. His performances create memorable moments that standard MCs cannot match.

Website: Via Celebrity Speakers NZ

Specialty: Entertainment MC, beatboxing

Best for: Creative events, entertainment industry, organisations wanting spectacular moments

41. Geoff Sewell — New Zealand

Multi-platinum winning musician Geoff Sewell combines emcee services with musical performance through Celebrity Speakers NZ. His dual capability suits events wanting integrated entertainment.

Website: Via Celebrity Speakers NZ

Specialty: Musician and emcee

Best for: Music industry events, awards wanting performance integration

42. Kate Targett-Adams — New Zealand

World-renowned singer, songwriter, harpist, and MC Kate Targett-Adams offers sophisticated entertainment-MC integration through Celebrity Speakers NZ. Her musical background brings elegance to hosting.

Website: Via Celebrity Speakers NZ

Specialty: Musician MC, elegant entertainment

Best for: Gala dinners, sophisticated corporate events

43. Sophie Morris — New Zealand

Singer, actor, and presenter Sophie Morris offers versatile MC services through Celebrity Speakers NZ. Her performance background translates to engaging stage presence.

Website: Via Celebrity Speakers NZ

Specialty: Performer MC

Best for: Entertainment events, corporate functions wanting polish

44. Kim Crossman — New Zealand

Actress, comedian, and host Kim Crossman brings performance credentials to MC work through Celebrity Speakers NZ. Her entertainment industry experience suits creative sector events.

Website: Via Celebrity Speakers NZ

Specialty: Actress MC

Best for: Entertainment industry, creative sector events

45. Miss La Vida — Auckland, New Zealand

Miss La Vida combines MC services with burlesque and cabaret performance through PME Entertainment Agents. This specialty suits events wanting bold, distinctive entertainment hosting.

Website: Via BandsForHire

Specialty: Cabaret MC

Best for: Creative events, unique entertainers requirements

46. Ray Woolf — Nationwide New Zealand

Ray Woolf offers cabaret show and MC services nationally through PME Entertainment Agents. His nationwide availability and entertainment integration suit touring events.

Website: Via BandsForHire

Specialty: Cabaret MC, national touring

Best for: Regional events, cabaret-style functions

Singer and DJ MC Hybrids

47. Dave Kaye — Auckland, New Zealand

Dave Kaye combines professional MC services with solo singing through PME Entertainment Agents. His dual capability provides entertainment value alongside hosting.

Website: Via BandsForHire

Specialty: Singer and MC

Best for: Corporate functions wanting entertainment integration

48. Frankie Stevens — Nationwide New Zealand

Frankie Stevens offers solo singing and professional MC services nationally through PME Entertainment Agents. His established profile and nationwide reach suit major corporate events.

Website: Via BandsForHire

Specialty: Singer and MC

Best for: National events, established brand preferences

49. John McGough — Auckland, New Zealand

John McGough combines singer, trumpeter, DJ, and MC services from Auckland through PME Entertainment Agents. This versatility suits events wanting comprehensive entertainment.

Website: Via BandsForHire

Specialty: Multi-talented entertainer MC

Best for: Events wanting live musician and DJ integration

50. Ali Harper — Christchurch, New Zealand

Ali Harper provides jazz singing and MC services from Christchurch through PME Entertainment Agents. Her South Island base and jazz specialty suit sophisticated regional events.

Website: Via BandsForHire

Specialty: Jazz singer and MC

Best for: South Island events, jazz-themed functions, sophisticated gatherings

Speaker Bureaus and Agencies

If you prefer working through an agency rather than direct booking, these New Zealand bureaus represent keynote speakers and MCs, matching you with appropriate talent. Their expert team can guide your selection process.

Celebrity Speakers NZ (csnz.co.nz) has operated for over 35 years from Auckland, representing celebrity speakers, entertainers, and MCs. They offer curated selection and matching services for corporate events. Working with them is an absolute pleasure according to client testimonials. Their great team handles the whole process from enquiry to event day.

Saxton (saxton.com.au / saxtonglobal.com) operates across Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore with offices including Auckland. They position themselves as Australasia's leading speakers bureau, representing the world's best speakers with extensive MC rosters. They provide regular updates on talent availability.

Johnson & Laird (johnsonlaird.co.nz) represents talent including Jono and Ben, Toni Street, and Art Green from Auckland. Their roster focuses on celebrity talent and entertainment. Many consider them among the best suppliers for high-profile talent.

Keynote Entertainment (keynote.net.au) serves both Australia and New Zealand from their Victorian base, representing MCs, speakers, and entertainers. They've been connecting clients with talent for a long time.

ICMI operates as a family-owned bureau across Australia and New Zealand, positioning themselves as talent partners rather than just booking agents. Like working with close friends, they take pride in understanding client needs.

PME Entertainment Agents / BandsForHire (bandsforhire.co.nz) provides a nationwide New Zealand directory of MCs, entertainers, and bands with direct booking options. They're known for accommodating last minute bookings when needed.

Directory Platforms

For browsing additional options or last minute bookings, these platforms list New Zealand emcees:

Gig Heaven (gigheaven.com) operates as a global directory with New Zealand coverage, functioning as a comprehensive Gig Heaven directory. Note that their "available in Auckland" results include part of the huge selection of international suppliers, so verify location carefully. They show price ranges in NZD for budget planning and accommodate Saturday night events.

My Wedding Guide (myweddingguide.co.nz) focuses on wedding vendors including reception emcees, primarily in Auckland. As part of Niche Directories Ltd, they also operate My Celebrant Guide and Canterbury Wedding. Business owners find it useful for vendor discovery.

When browsing these directories, look at the top of this page listings and previous clients' reviews carefully. A man of many talents may offer multiple services. Ask about professional experience and whether they've done an amazing job at similar events to yours.

What About Entertainment Add-Ons?

Many MCs work alongside other suppliers to create complete event experiences. When browsing directories like Gig Heaven, you'll find MCs listed alongside hosts family entertainment fire eaters, clowns fire eaters, classical singers country singers crooners, bands 1930s era musicians, bands 1940s era musicians, hip hop groups, caribbean music chamber orchestras, classical duos, classical ensembles, fiddlers wedding bands, and bands originals artists reggae.

Some platforms also list adjacent services including fire performers, stages pyrotechnics, DJs sax & DJ combinations, live musician & DJ packages, party games team entertainment, and outdoor entertainment options. You might also find mixology caterers drink suppliers food trucks ice services, players viola players violinists, portable floors for dance setups, and very best photographers.

For audio needs, enquire about additional sound equipment, backing tracks capabilities, and audio recordings of your event. Visual aids and high-quality video services often complement MC bookings. Some entertainers showcase their debut album or promotional material as part of the huge selection of international suppliers available through directories.

The genial Ken Margoe, Dave Johnson, and MC Denzil all appear in directory testimonials as examples of professional talent. Look for impressive rope acts and other unique entertainers if you want spectacular moments.

Business owners planning corporate events should note that additional charge policies vary between best suppliers and budget price options. Always confirm the type of supplier you're engaging and request a business card for follow-up.

How to Make Your Final Decision

With 50 options across corporate hosts, wedding MCs, comedy entertainers, and media personalities, narrowing your choice requires clarity on your priorities.

For high-stakes corporate conferences: Tim McCready, Doug Kamo, or Jonno White bring the gravitas and preparation depth that senior executives expect. Their decades of experience ensure nothing derails your event. Jonno White's bestselling book Step Up or Step Out (https://www.amazon.com.au/Step-Up-Out-Difficult-Conflict/dp/B097X7B5LD) demonstrates his expertise in high-pressure communication situations.

For entertainment-forward awards nights: Jono and Ben, Darryl Lovegrove, or the comedy MCs deliver energy that keeps audiences engaged through long programs.

For wedding receptions: Aaron Bloomfield, Matt at EMCEE DJ Canterbury, or the celebrant-MC hybrids provide seamless coordination across your special day.

For budget-conscious events: The Gig Heaven directory shows budget-level suppliers alongside top-tier suppliers, with visible pricing to help planning. However, remember that the quality of your supplier directly impacts audience experience. The budget price options may suit smaller gatherings.

For international standard with New Zealand delivery: Jonno White, bestselling author with 10,000+ copies sold globally, brings world's best speakers calibre to your event. As a Certified Working Genius Facilitator who presented a 93.75% satisfaction-rated masterclass at the ASBA 2025 National Conference, Jonno delivers substance alongside polish. Contact jonno@consultclarity.org to discuss your event needs.

Don't let geographic assumptions limit your options. Having Jonno White travel to New Zealand for face to face work is often far more affordable than people expect. Many clients discover that engaging an international expert costs less than high-profile local alternatives.

Ready to Book Your MC?

The best way to start is reaching out directly. For most practitioners, their website offers a contact form or messaging system. For bureau-represented talent, enquire through the agency.

If you want proven expertise with global perspective, book Jonno White by emailing jonno@consultclarity.org. Whether you need MC services for a corporate event, gala dinner, conference, or executive team gathering, Jonno White brings the professional experience and stage presence that creates an enjoyable experience for your audience.

With 230+ podcast episodes interviewing leaders across industries, Jonno White knows how to ask the questions that keep conversations moving. With keynotes delivered across the UK, India, Canada, Singapore, South Africa, United States, Finland, Namibia, and more, he understands what makes events succeed across cultures. Jonno White is a man of many talents who can adapt to your specific needs.

Your next event deserves more than someone who simply reads the run sheet. It deserves an MC who creates meaningful experience and lasting impact. Don't settle for anything less than the ultimate choice for your organisation.

Email jonno@consultclarity.org to book Jonno White as MC for your next time hosting an event in New Zealand. Having Jonno White travel to your location is often far more affordable than expected, and working with him is an absolute pleasure from start to finish.