Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Enterprise (MBIE) have announced a $70m investment into events and tourism support. This package includes a $40m Events Attraction Package for large-scale international events, a $10m Regional Tourism Boost campaign (round two of funding), and up to $10m for tourism infrastructure upgrades. We expect further details on these funds in coming weeks.
MBIE has now opened applications for the $10 million contestable Events Boost Fund, supporting events to be delivered in the 2026 calendar year that can generate impact, attract international visitors, and strengthen Aotearoa’s reputation as a destination.
Applications are now open, and will close 5pm, 30 September 2025. Decisions will be made by late October 2025.
Who can apply:
- Event organisers/owners
- Promoters
- Venues
- National sporting organisations
- Local government event entities
Requirements:
- Event delivery must begin by 31 December 2026
- Demonstrate international visitor appeal and positive economic outcomes
- Be financially viable with diversified revenue (not underwrite funding)
- Include local government contribution of at least 25% of total public investment (cash or in-kind)
All applicants must provide a letter of support from the relevant local government entity responsible for oversight of local event activity. The letter could be from:
- A Regional Tourism Organisation (RTO)
- Economic Development Agency (EDA)
- Local Government (Council).
The letter of support must confirm the cash and in-kind contributions made at the local level towards the event. Local government contributions must equate to at least 25% of the total public investment. For example if total public investment is $1 million, then at least $250,000 of that to be from local government, with Event Boost Fund investment being no more than $750,000.
Further details on event criteria, funding priorities and the application assessment process, along with templates for applications are available on the MBIE website. We encourage interested parties to review the criteria and consider this opportunity.
Any queries or applications requiring letters of support can be directed to Northland Inc via email.
