Major event strategy delivers a $6.7 million boost for Kāpiti Coast

Kāpiti Coast District Council’s Major Events Fund delivered an exceptional return for the year 2024/25, with $6.7 million injected into the local economy from $200,000 of investment.

More than 80,000 people attended ten Council-supported events across the district last year, including visitors from across Aotearoa New Zealand and abroad.

Kāpiti Coast Economic Development Kotahitanga Board Chair Neil Mackay says with a *33.5 to 1 return on investment, the results speak for themselves.

“These events are drawing new audiences, building our district’s reputation as a destination, and delivering tangible benefits for local retailers, hospitality teams, volunteers, and the tourism sector,” says Mr Mackay.

2025 Kiwi Classic Festival at Southward Car Museum 

“The Major Events Fund is a clear example of a smart, visitor attraction strategy delivering real results in real time.

“And real money is being put back into local hands, driving spending in our businesses, and giving Kāpiti a stronger platform for long-term growth – showing why economic development matters.”

Kāpiti Coast District Mayor Janet Holborow says the events the fund has supported are not a luxury, they’re a powerful tool for community wellbeing and local momentum.

“They bring people together, create memorable experiences, support local businesses, and build pride in the places we call home,” says Mayor Holborow.

“Across the district, these events are helping our towns bounce back, not just economically, but socially and culturally.”

The 2024/25 events included triathlons and trail runs, the Māoriland Film Festival, Matariki celebrations, the Ōtaki Kite Festival, Kāpiti Food Fair, and the inaugural Kāpiti Classic music concert.

Mayor Holborow says across the district, these events built connection and unity, while attracting visitor investment in our people and places.  

“Backed by a smart strategy and strong results, the Major Events Fund is doing exactly what it was designed to do: strengthening the Coast, one event at a time. We look forward to announcing the 2025/26 recipients soon.”

*Independently assessed