The government is putting a further $3 million toward major sports, food, culture and innovation events this year from the Bay of Islands to Tekapo.
It is the latest tranche of funding from the $70m Major Events and Tourism package.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said the government was “setting the stage for an extraordinary year”.
Events included Matariki celebrations in Rotorua, the Solo Trans-Tasman Yacht Challenge in Opua, the Deaf International Basketball Federation World 3×3 Cup in Auckland, Visa Wellington on a Plate and Beervana.
Upston said the events would bring vibrancy to the regions and deliver lasting benefits to communities and businesses.
“These events don’t just entertain – they drive economic growth. Accommodation fills up, restaurants thrive, and tills ring in our local shops.
“Tourism is critical to our economy, and these investments will help attract visitors and strengthen our reputation as a world-class destination for culture, sport and entertainment.”
She made the announcement at Wellington restaurant Glou Glou where Visa Wellington on a Plate and Beervana were celebrating the support they had received.
Visa Wellington On a Plate had been allocated $200,000 to help fund programming and marketing for international chef collaborations.
Beervana was allocated $50,000 to go toward promoting the festival in Australia.
The Wellington Culinary Events Trust, which runs both festivals, said the support meant two home-grown events could be turned into “even bigger international drawcards”.
“When it comes to food and drink, Wellington has an energy you don’t find anywhere else”, said general manager Penny de Borst.
“This funding means we can share that magic offshore and invite more people to experience it for themselves.
“It also lets us bring higher-profile chefs to New Zealand, so people can taste their food right here in Wellington, our hospitality community can learn from them, and Aotearoa’s incredible produce can be showcased in their hands.”
Visa Wellington On a Plate and Beervana led to a $10m boost to the Wellington economy in 2025 and attracted more than 4500 out-of-town visitors.
Further announcements were expected in the coming weeks and months.
