26801 (2026). Tamatha Paul to the Minister for Tourism and Hospitality

26801 (2026). Tamatha Paul to the Minister for Tourism and Hospitality: What consideration if any is given to New Zealand ownership, local artist participation, or reinvestment in the local economy when assessing applications for the events boost fund or the Events attraction package as part of the Major Events and Tourism package?

Hon Louise Upston: My officials advise me that all funding recipients are required to establish a New Zealand-domiciled entity to receive and be accountable for the funding. For all events, the inclusion of local talent (artists or athletes) is considered, and where possible, this is embedded in the investment agreements. The pre-event evaluation and assessment of event applications (for the Events Boost Fund) or proposals (for the Events Attraction Package) consider the level of expenditure in New Zealand, supporting the local economy through the event. This is assessed by seeking information from applicants or proponents on domestic spend associated with event delivery, as well as the forecast number of visitors and the length of their stay, which enables MBIE to assess the potential economic impact.