MEDIA RELEASE 30 May 2008

Event And Festival Funding

Christchurch's reputation as the country's leading festivals and events city was bolstered again this week with the Christchurch City Council approving more than $2 million in funding for coming events.

"We know from our regular residents' survey how important our festivals and events are to the city, and we are extremely fortunate to have some really innovative events and some very inspired organisers," says Mayor Bob Parker.

"This means that every year we know that residents will have a range of festivals and events on offer - with something to appeal to everyone, regardless of their interests," he says.

Last year the council moved to a new funding system which saw events being funded on a three year funding cycle, meaning greater certainty for event organisers. This was part of a plan to try and encourage some strong community events to progress into visitor focussed events - bringing broader benefits to the community. At the same time, councillors wanted to see the city continue its lead with community festivals.

This year's additional funding allocations have also seen top-up increases to some events that had already been approved for three year funding - including the Antarctic Festival and the Jazz and Blues Festival.

Funding was also approved for the third annual Southern Amp event later this year, and for further development of the Christchurch Arts Festival's WinterGarden concept.

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