132 Regional Events to Receive Funding Boost to Attract Domestic Visitors, Announces Matt Doocey

Doocey highlighted the value of regional events in drawing New Zealanders to explore beyond major cities and appreciate the country's diverse offerings.

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Matt Doocey has announced that 132 regional events across New Zealand will receive a funding boost aimed at encouraging domestic travel and stimulating economic growth.

Doocey highlighted the value of regional events in drawing New Zealanders to explore beyond major cities and appreciate the country's diverse offerings. Notable new events receiving support include the Goldrush Multisport Event in Central Otago, the Taupo Classic Disc Golf Tournament, and the New Zealand Cider Festival in Nelson. Recurring events benefiting from the funding include the Ohiwa Oyster Festival, the Steampunk NZ Festival, and the NZ Surf Life Saving Championships.

The funding is part of the new Regional Events Promotion Fund, which is designed to enhance domestic tourism by targeting events identified by Regional Tourism Organisations (RTOs) and local councils. This initiative aims to increase visitor numbers to regional areas, particularly outside the peak summer season, contributing to a more sustainable tourism sector.

The Regional Events Promotion Fund, featured in the 100-point Economic Plan, supports the growth of tourism, New Zealand's second-largest export sector. The first round of funding attracted 242 applications from 28 RTOs and councils, with applications for the second round expected to open in March 2025 to benefit events planned for mid-2025.