The Government is putting $70 million into major events and tourism projects, with the aim of boosting regional economies and attracting more international visitors.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says the funding will help New Zealand compete with Australia for big-name acts and major sporting events.
“Major events, whether they are sports showdowns, the world’s most popular artists or well-loved favourites, can be a bonanza for the cities and regions which host them, supporting local jobs and incomes in the hospitality and retail sectors and beyond,” she says.
The package includes:
- $40 million for an Events Attraction Package to secure large-scale international events from 2026.
- $10 million for an Events Boost Fund to support existing events and attract new international opportunities.
- $10 million for a Regional Tourism Boost Campaign to incentivise international visitors.
- Up to $10 million for tourism infrastructure upgrades, including cycle trails.
Upston says the investment will help “energise the events sector” and encourage both visitors and locals to get out and about.
“This level of investment in events represents a significant funding boost and for international comparison puts New Zealand on a par with Queensland,” she says.
The Government is hoping for more results like Auckland’s run of concerts from artists including Coldplay and Pearl Jam, which over three years brought in $33.7 million and attracted nearly half a million attendees.
“Communities up and down New Zealand benefit hugely from events, and it’s important that local government is also involved in supporting activity in their regions with resources, in cash or in kind,” Upston says.
The package is part of the Coalition Government’s Q3 Action Plan and will be rolled out over the next two years, with further announcements on events and infrastructure expected by the end of 2025.
