Showstopper events delivering for New Zealand

The Government's Events Attraction Package and Events Boost Fund are delivering strong economic and community benefits across New Zealand, with newly released data providing the first evidence of their impact. Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston today welcomed the first independent results from the Events Attraction Package investment, showing the programme of world-class events is attracting visitors, generating spending and creating lasting benefits for Kiwi communities. "The first four events delivered more than $15 million in net benefit, attracted more than 76,000 attendees and brought in almost 30,000 visitors who travelled to the events,” Louise Upston says. The events evaluated so far are for Linkin Park and FIFA World Series in Auckland, World Surf League Championship Tour 2026 in Raglan and ULTRA Music Festival in Wellington. These events deliver lasting benefits beyond their immediate economic impact, including creating opportunities for homegrown talent to perform alongside some of the world’s biggest artists. "It was great to have VANA open for Linkin Park, while ULTRA Music Festival showcased leading New Zealand electronic artists including QUIX and Mt Eden