Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, Hon Louise Upston has announced more regional events will benefit from government funding.
The Government has continued to drive economic growth in the regions by investing NZD 2.6 million in 152 regional events, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said.
“I’m thrilled with the variety of exciting events on offer, encouraging more New Zealanders to enjoy and explore our beautiful country beyond the main centres,” Minister Upston said.
“Events include the National Waka Ama Sprint Championships in Waikato, the National Jazz Festival in the Bay of Plenty, the 2026 Hokitika Wildfoods Festival, and NZ Premier Motorsport Summer Series events around the country.”
Some of the new events coming to the regions that will benefit from this investment include the Whakapapa Festival, a non-skiing event occurring over June 2026, and Summernats NZ, a car festival in the Waikato.
“I’m particularly pleased to support events in regions which traditionally don’t see as many domestic tourists,” Minister Upston said.
“Investing in these events has a direct impact, with visitors spending money in local cafes, businesses and accommodation providers, driving economic activity in our communities.”
Minister Upston said that by growing regional tourism, New Zealand’s remote and rural communities will be able to benefit from the economic opportunities it will bring.
“Events are excellent drawcards to get more visitors into our regions, particularly in quieter parts of the year for the tourism and hospitality sector.”
Minister Upston also said New Zealand was open for business, and the Government has encouraged both Kiwis and international visitors alike to explore and enjoy what New Zealand has to offer.
This new round of funding comes from the previously announced NZD 5 million Regional Events Promotion Fund. Over its two rounds, the Fund has so far invested in 284 regional events.
The Regional Events Promotion Fund was a contestable fund over two financial years to support regions to host local events, attracting domestic tourists.
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