The government is allocating an additional $3 million this year to support major events in sports, food, culture, and innovation, spanning from the Bay of Islands to Tekapo.
This marks the latest instalment from the $70m Major Events and Tourism package.
Events include 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.
“These events don’t just entertain – they drive economic growth. Accommodation fills up, restaurants thrive, and tills ring in our local shops,” Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said.
“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 announced it at Wellington’s Glou Glou restaurant, where Visa Wellington on a Plate and Beervana were celebrating the funding support.
Visa Wellington On a Plate receives $200,000 to support programming and marketing for international chef collaborations.
Beervana gets $50,000 to promote the festival in Australia.
The Wellington Culinary Events Trust, which organises both festivals, stated the funding will transform these homegrown events into “even bigger international drawcards.”
“This funding means we can share that magic offshore and invite more people to experience it for themselves,” general manager Penny de Borst said.
“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 delivered a $10m economic boost to Wellington in 2025, drawing over 4,500 out-of-town visitors.
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