New $70m Major Events Funding Puts NZ Back in the Game
Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, Hon Louise Upston has announced that the Government will invest $70 million into tourism and events.
The Government’s announcement of a $70 million investment into tourism and major events has been warmly welcomed across the industry, with leaders hailing the move as a catalyst for growth, visitation, and long-term sector strength.
Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Hon Louise Upston confirmed the funding package, which will support tourism infrastructure upgrades, the Regional Tourism Boost campaign, and a globally competitive major events strategy.
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Hospitality New Zealand (Hospitality NZ) Interim Chief Executive Nick Keene said the funding will deliver direct benefits to hospitality operators.
Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Hon Louise Upston confirmed the funding package, which includes support for major events, the Regional Tourism Boost campaign, and tourism infrastructure upgrades.
Hospitality New Zealand (Hospitality NZ) Interim Chief Executive Nick Keene said the funding will deliver direct benefits to hospitality operators.
“Large-scale events play a crucial role in supporting New Zealand’s economy, particularly for industries like ours that rely on visitor spending,” Keene said.
“Major events drive demand across the host city, from hotel bookings to restaurants, bars and cafés. The flow-on benefits touch almost every part of the hospitality sector, and often encourage people to travel to New Zealand and travel beyond the event location.
“We also welcome the Regional Tourism Boost campaign and funding for tourism infrastructure upgrades. Driving regional visitation ensures tourism’s benefits can be felt across the country. Sustained investment is key to ensure long-term attraction of major events is prioritised.”
Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA) Chief Executive Rebecca Ingram also described the announcement as “news worth celebrating.”
“The announcement of a globally competitive major events investment package is very exciting and will have tourism businesses buzzing,” she said.
“Major events are more than just moments of celebration, they’re powerful economic catalysts. They bring in visitors who spend money on accommodation, food, transport, and experiences, while also showcasing the host city to a global audience.
“The benefits extend well beyond the event itself and the tourism industry, leaving a legacy of infrastructure improvements, community pride and international profile. They also lift the spirits of New Zealanders, bringing excitement to our shores.”
Ingram pointed to recent sold-out stadiums in Wellington and Auckland for Springboks and All Blacks clashes as examples of the atmosphere and economic activity generated by major events.
“This level of investment puts us back in the game, supporting events of an even greater scale and providing reasons for both domestic and international visitors to travel around New Zealand,” she said.
Hospitality NZ and TIA have confirmed they will work closely with government to support the implementation of the strategy and help deliver a strong pipeline of world-class events.
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