25 major events to draw crowds to Auckland

Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED) has announced 25 major events that form the basis of the 2015/16 major events portfolio.

Events range from supporting touring international acts to Auckland’s perennial cultural favourites Diwali, Pasifika and the Auckland Lantern Festival, as well as events delivered through multi-year agreements such as the ITM 500 Auckland V8 Supercars at Pukekohe and the Dick Smith NRL Auckland Nines.

The Auckland Council unit has also announced improvements to the sponsorship process that will result in a better events programme for Auckland.

All applications are assessed for their ability to generate GDP for Auckland (money that would not otherwise be spent in the region), increase domestic and international visitor nights, build awareness of Auckland internationally, and make Auckland an interesting and exciting place to live.

To improve the process for major event organisers, the application window will open significantly earlier, for a longer period of time, and will encourage applications for multi-year events and events planned beyond the 2016/17 financial year. The application criteria, evaluation and decision-making process, and approximate funding levels will not change.

ATEED Chief Executive Brett O’Riley says the changes aim to increase opportunities for Auckland by allowing longer-term planning that will enhance the quality of Auckland’s major events offering.

O’Riley stated “we had an unprecedented line-up of major events over summer, including the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015, the Volvo Ocean Race Auckland Stopover and just-completed FIFA Under 20 World Cup 2015 and it will be another huge year in 2017/18 with the World Masters Games.

“We have built a balanced, stable portfolio and a good understanding of the model in the events industry, so this year presents as the ideal time to fine-tune our sponsorship process.”

The 2015/16 Major Events Portfolio includes 15 events with an arts, cultural or social focus, and 10 sporting events.

O’Riley added “by making these changes we are hoping to provide event organisers with more time to fine-tune their applications and allow them more certainty in their planning. “Considering events beyond the 2016/17 year gives ATEED time to work with event organisers and our event partners to maximise each opportunity to its full potential for Auckland.”

The sponsorship application period for major events to be held in the Auckland region during the 2016/17 financial year onwards runs from 8th July to 2nd September 2015.

Image shows Eden Park during the Auckland Nines.

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