From music events to festivals and sporting activities, the Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) awarded funding to a range of events at a Full Council meeting on Thursday 30 June.

In total $527,000 was awarded as part of the contestable Events Fund which goes toward attracting and supporting the success of events in the district.

QLDC Relationship Manager Arts and Events Jan Maxwell said the funding would enable a mixture of sports, arts and culture, wellbeing, and community events to happen.

“It’s great to support a range of organisations, both big and small. The flow-on effects of these events are great for local communities as well as bringing people to the district, raising our profile, and supporting the economy. These events really contribute to the vibrancy of Queenstown Lakes,” Ms Maxwell said.

“It’s been a challenging couple of years for event organisers, and we’re proud to provide our support to organisations that help make the Queenstown Lakes District an exciting place to be for both locals and visitors alike.”

Mayor Jim Boult added that it was wonderful to welcome back so many high quality events. “From accommodation providers to sound engineers and hospitality, events stimulate all corners of our economy and provide the opportunity to showcase just how special this area is as a destination. Kudos should be given to the event organisers who have hung in during the tough times and re-emerged to provide these fantastic experiences,” said Mayor Boult.

QLDC’s Events Funding Panel, which consisted of councillors Craig Ferguson, Penny Clark, Quentin Smith and Heath Copland, considered the applications in late May.

The total estimated economic benefit to the district in 2022-2023 as a direct result of the events proposed to be funded is $101,900,000.

The following funding was approved:

Over $30,000:

LUMA Southern Light Project

New Zealand Open Golf

Crankworx

Festival of Colour

Winter Games

Under $30,000:

Akarua Arrowtown Autumn Festival

Challenge Wānaka

Lake Hayes A&P Show

Michael Hill International Violin

Motatapu

NZ Mountain Film & Book Festival

Ripe – Wānaka Wine and Food

Welcome to Winter

Wheels in Wānaka

Winter Pride

Queenstown Marathon

Cyclorama

Queenstown Bike Festival

Synthony

Centre Stage Origins

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