World Metrology Day commemorates the signing of the Metre Convention on 20 May 1875, an international treaty designed to ensure ease of trade and progress in science through the introduction of a single system of measurement.
This anniversary celebrates 150 years of international collaboration in metrology, highlighting the profound impact of measurements on our past, present and future.
Celebrated on 20 May each year, World Metrology Day helps the public to understand what is meant by the science of measurement and why we are so dependent upon it. This little-known science underpins countless aspects of our daily lives. Every time we buy a kilogram of oranges, use the GPS in our car to navigate, swallow a pill, cross a bridge or enter a building, we should spare a thought for the metrologists who made this possible in some way. Thanks to the metric system, an architect trained in New Zealand will be able to design an office building being built in Mexico, as the standard measurements will be the same in both countries.
The MSA co-hosted this event on Tuesday 20 May in Wellington, along with the Measurement Standards Laboratory of NZ and MBIE Trading Standards. Scroll through some of the images taken during the event below.
World Metrology Day 2025 – Celebrate 150 Years of the Metre Convention
Tuesday 20 May | 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm | MBIE, 15 Stout Street, Wellington
Brought to you by the Metrology Society of Australasia in partnership with the Measurement Standards Laboratory and MBIE Trading Standards.
This event will celebrate 150 years of the Metre Convention, otherwise known as the International System of Units (SI).
The programme will acknowledge the significance of the measurement system, how it keeps you safe, and ensures fairness of trade. We’ll also look to the future role of precision quantum technologies. Enjoy light refreshments and measurement displays. More details of the programme will be added here closer to the event.
World Metrology Day 2025 – Technical Expo
Tuesday 20 May | 12:00 pm to 4:30 pm | Rutherford House, 33 Bunny Street, Pipitea, Wellington
This half day event, starting with lunch, is brought to you by the Measurement Standards Laboratory of NZ (MSL). Expect to be updated on the future of measurement technology across our full range of expertise: mass, length, light, temperature, electricity, and time. MSL experts and special guests will showcase New Zealand’s measurement quality infrastructure and its impact on industry.
A detailed programme with speakers and topics is available on the MSL website. This will include announcing the winner of the New Zealand Metrologist of the year award, sponsored by DE Calibration and Compliance.
This event will end by 4:30 pm so that you can choose to also attend the evening celebration of 150 years of the metre convention. Please ensure you register for each event separately.
This event is a collaboration with these organisations.
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