Events Fund

The Regional Events Fund was a central government Covid-19 response fund designed to stimulate domestic tourism through holding events. Regions were allocated funding based on international visitor spend prior to the pandemic. Events need to have been held before 30 June 2025 and meet a range of criteria.

The Mackenzie Regional Events Fund is now closed, with all funding being allocated.

Successful recipients include:

• Mackenzie Half Marathon
• Race Tekapo
• Twizel Hard Labour
• Twizel Salmon and Wine Festival
• Swim Ruataniwha
• Mackenzie Race
• Breathe Tekapo
• Matariki Mackenzie
• Twizel Hydro Sport Racing
• Twizel Cavalcade 2025
• Summer Challenge 2025

The central government Regional Events Promotion Fund (REPF) provides $5 million over 2 years to support the promotion of regional events to the domestic market. The aim of the fund is to encourage regional dispersal and increase visitor spend in the regions with an additional focus on encouraging seasonal dispersal by promoting events outside of the peak summer season.

Applicants to the REPF must be a regional RTO or local Council not represented by an RTO.

Mackenzie Tourism is awaiting details from central government regarding the timings for applications for the 2025/2026 funding round. If you wish to discuss the REPF and your event, please read through the criteria and email Lydia.stoddart@mackenzienz.com