Deadline: 28-Feb-2026
Tauranga is inviting applications for its Major Event Fund to support high-impact events that boost the local economy, attract visitors, and elevate the city’s national and international profile. The fund prioritises events delivering strong tourism outcomes, at least 5,000 visitor nights, and measurable economic, community, and promotional benefits, particularly during Tauranga’s shoulder and off-peak seasons.
Overview
Tauranga is seeking applications for its Major Event Fund to support significant events that drive economic growth, attract domestic and international visitors, and enhance the city’s reputation as a leading destination.
The fund is designed to attract major events that generate substantial tourism activity, contribute to community outcomes, and position Tauranga prominently on national and global stages.
Purpose and Strategic Objectives
The Major Event Fund supports events that align with Tauranga’s long-term strategic goals.
Funded events are expected to:
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Deliver a strong and measurable economic impact
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Attract significant visitor numbers and overnight stays
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Enhance Tauranga’s national and international profile
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Contribute positively to social, cultural, and community outcomes
Events that demonstrate clear alignment with city priorities and brand positioning are strongly preferred.
Key Economic and Tourism Impact Requirements
To be considered competitive, funded events must show clear tourism and economic value.
Key expectations include:
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A minimum of 5,000 visitor nights generated
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Evidence of inbound visitation from outside the region
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Demonstrable spending across accommodation, hospitality, and local services
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Positive international or national media exposure for Tauranga
Applications should clearly outline how these impacts will be measured and reported.
Funding Available and Grant Limits
The Major Event Fund provides substantial financial support for eligible events.
Funding details include:
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Total annual budget of $400,000 plus GST
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Funding applies to events held within a single financial year
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Financial year runs from 1 July to 30 June
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Maximum grant of $100,000 plus GST per individual event
Funding is competitive and allocated based on strategic fit, impact, and value for money.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
The fund is open to event organisers capable of delivering large-scale, high-impact events in Tauranga.
Eligible applicants typically include:
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Professional event organisers
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Event management companies
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Sporting, cultural, or entertainment bodies
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Organisations with demonstrated capacity to deliver major events
Applicants must be able to show strong governance, financial capability, and delivery experience.
Priority Event Timing
Tauranga places strong emphasis on events that support year-round tourism.
Priority is given to events scheduled during the shoulder and off-peak seasons, specifically:
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March to November
Events held outside peak summer months help spread visitor demand and maximise economic benefits throughout the year.
How the Major Event Fund Works
The fund supports events that deliver clear returns on investment for the city.
Successful events typically:
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Attract visitors from outside Tauranga
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Encourage multi-night stays
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Generate media exposure and destination marketing value
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Support local businesses and suppliers
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Leave a lasting legacy for the community
Funding may be used to enhance event delivery, marketing, infrastructure, or visitor experience.
How to Apply
Event organisers should follow a structured approach when applying.
Recommended steps include:
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Confirm the event aligns with Tauranga’s strategic and economic objectives
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Develop a clear event concept with defined outcomes
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Prepare evidence of expected visitor numbers and visitor nights
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Outline economic, tourism, and promotional benefits
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Provide a detailed budget and funding request
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Demonstrate organisational capacity and risk management
Applications should clearly articulate why the event deserves public investment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants are advised to avoid the following common issues:
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Overestimating visitor numbers without supporting evidence
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Failing to clearly quantify economic impact
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Submitting events that primarily serve local audiences only
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Weak alignment with Tauranga’s strategic goals
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Insufficient planning around delivery and risk
Strong applications are realistic, evidence-based, and strategically focused.
Why This Funding Matters
Major events play a critical role in Tauranga’s economic and tourism development.
This fund helps:
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Stimulate local spending and job creation
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Attract new visitors to the region
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Enhance Tauranga’s reputation as an event destination
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Support cultural vibrancy and community pride
Well-delivered events create benefits that extend beyond the event itself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the total funding available each year?
A total of $400,000 plus GST is available for events within each financial year.
What is the maximum funding per event?
An individual event can receive up to $100,000 plus GST.
What is the required minimum tourism impact?
Events are expected to generate at least 5,000 visitor nights.
When must funded events take place?
Events must occur within the financial year from 1 July to 30 June.
Are off-peak season events preferred?
Yes. Events held between March and November are strongly encouraged.
What types of events are eligible?
Eligible events include sporting, cultural, entertainment, and business events with significant visitor appeal.
Is international exposure required?
Positive international or national exposure is highly valued, particularly where it enhances Tauranga’s profile.
Conclusion
The Tauranga Major Event Fund offers a valuable opportunity for event organisers to secure funding for high-impact events that drive tourism, strengthen the local economy, and elevate the city’s global profile. By supporting strategically aligned events with strong visitor and economic outcomes, Tauranga continues to position itself as a vibrant, attractive, and competitive destination for major events year-round.
For more information, visit Tauranga City Council.
