West Coast Events Get Funding Boost

Tourism Minister Louise Upston has announced $2.6 million in funding for 152 regional events across the country, including support for the 2026 Hokitika Wildfoods Festival and several other West Coast events.

Development West Coast Destination and Tourism Manager Andrew Aitken said the funding will help bring more visitors to the region during quieter times of the year.

“We’ve got an incredible range of iconic events on the Coast and we’re thrilled that some of these have been selected for funding through the regional events promotion fund,” Aitken said.

“Hosting events outside of peak summer visitation season really helps to bring money into our local economy during a much-needed time of the year. This funding enables these event organisers to attract further visitors that will inevitably spend on accommodation, food & beverage and tourism experiences during their stay.”

West Coast events receiving support include:

• $50,000 to 2026 Hokitika Wildfoods Festival
• $7,400 to Around Brunner Bike Ride
• $5,250 to Gold Trail (Mountain Bike Race)
• $24,000 to Greymouth Motorcycle Street Race
• $7,875 to Ride the Wilderness Bike Race
• $7,875 to South Island Ultra Marathon
• $16,000 to True West Adventure Race

“By growing regional tourism, our remote and rural communities can benefit from the economic opportunities it brings,” said Minister Upston.

“Events are excellent drawcards to get more visitors into our regions, particularly in quieter parts of the year for the tourism and hospitality sector.

“New Zealand is open for business, and we encourage both Kiwis and international visitors alike to explore and enjoy what New Zealand has to offer.”

Funding comes from the $5 million Regional Events Promotion Fund. Over its two rounds, the Fund has invested in 284 regional events.