New Zealand’s largest stadium, Eden Park in Auckland, has welcomed a government investment of NZ$70 million (around US$41.7 million) aimed at boosting the country’s mass-events sector and tourism industry.

A major boost to the economy

The package includes a new contestable fund to attract the biggest global events to New Zealand. NZ$40 million will go towards hosting international events from 2026, while a further NZ$10 million each has been allocated to support existing events, incentivise international visitors and improve tourism infrastructure.

Eden Park has long been a key driver of New Zealand’s tourism economy. Since its redevelopment ahead of the 2011 Rugby World Cup, events at the stadium have delivered more than NZ$1 billion in GDP benefits to the Auckland region. Eden Park Chief Executive Nick Sautner said the fund is a vital step to ensure the country can compete on the global stage: This new fund will now allow New Zealand to go head-to-head for the world’s biggest events and artists. New Zealanders deserve a wide range of entertainment that offers escapism, brings people together and creates lifelong memories. What’s more, international artists leave as advocates for New Zealand. This gives us confidence in our discussions with promoters and organisers about the country’s potential as a destination.

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Nick Sautner added that every dollar spent on a ticket to a global event at Eden Park stays in New Zealand’s economy. We want Kiwis to spend that money here, supporting local jobs, businesses and our wider economy, he said.

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Government aims for rapid stimulus

The investment package will be rolled out over the next two years with a focus on getting activity underway quickly. This NZ$70 million events and tourism package is about energising the events sector, said Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upton. It will enable New Zealand to compete with Australia for major acts, give international visitors even more reasons to explore the country and encourage Kiwis to get out and about.

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A packed events calendar

In the coming years Eden Park is set to host a string of high-profile international events, including India’s men’s cricket tour in 2026, the British and Irish Lions women’s tour in 2027, and the 2028 Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup. With this new funding, both Eden Park and New Zealand’s wider events sector are poised to step up to the next level and compete more effectively with the world’s major entertainment hubs.