The time has come for Lower Hutt to take the next step in becoming a top destination for events and Council’s new Events Strategy will help make that happen.

The new Events Strategy 2025-2034 sets out a clear approach to unlock new opportunities and help people run great events. It aims to make Lower Hutt more vibrant, welcoming and full of life, while driving economic activity in our city.

At its heart is a vision for long-term partnerships with organisers and attracting events that locals love and visitors travel for.

Mayor Campbell Barry says events are a key part of Lower Hutt’s future because they help boost the local economy and showcase what makes the city unique.

"This strategy is about backing events - whether that’s festivals, major tournaments, or something new and exciting. It’s a clear signal that Lower Hutt is open for business."

The approach has already paid off with events like the NZ Junior Girls Rugby Festival on 10-12 October at Fraser Park. This event brings together 65 teams from across Aotearoa. It’s a great example of how sports events can support tamariki and attract people to our local cafés, shops and accommodation. It’s expected to boost the local economy by $1.3 million.

"If we grow the number and scale of events like these, we’re not just putting on a good time - we’re putting money in local tills and supporting jobs. That’s a smart investment," Mayor Barry says.

"Done right, events drive spending and bring life into our city. We need to be backing them."

Hutt City Council’s What’s On guide has also had a major refresh, making it easier than ever to find out what’s happening across our city.

Now hosted on a new digital platform, the upgraded guide brings together events from across Council - including libraries, hubs, arts, and community programmes - into one simple, central space.

You can browse by age group, location, event type or date, bookmark events that interest you, or add them directly to your calendar. Whether you’re using a desktop or mobile device, it’s all accessible via the Hutt City Council website or through the new Hutt City Libraries app.

This shift is part of Council’s more coordinated approach to promoting events - helping residents stay informed, get involved, and make the most of what’s happening in their neighbourhoods and across Te Awa Kairangi ki Tai Lower Hutt.

You can access the new events webpage here: https://www.huttcity.govt.nz/people-and-communities/events

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