Tourism is a significant part of Southland’s economy, leveraging the region’s natural attractions and famous southern hospitality.

And while our two national parks and five Great Walks are incredible attractions, the growing range of Southland events is also becoming important in encouraging visitors South.

The 38th annual Edendale Crank Up Day, which I enjoyed attending at the weekend, the recent successful Tour of Southland, the up-coming Burt Munro Challenge and the Waimumu Field Days, are all events which attract visitors here and promote positive economic growth.

During the busy summer months there are approximately 340,000 passengers through Invercargill Airport and 40,000 visitors to Stewart Island - and in 2025 this region hosted 153 major events of 500-plus people.

The Government is aware of the importance of encouraging visitors to the regions and we have established the Regional Events Promotion fund to stimulate that domestic tourism.

More visitors help raise local accommodation occupancy rates, support food and hospitality venues, promote spending at businesses, and maintain essential jobs.

Several local events have recently benefitted from over $90,000 in Government, including last month’s Ascot Park Hotel Teretonga Park International ($20,000), this week’s Burt Munro Challenge ($16,000) and the Shepherdess Muster 2026 at Tokonui in early March ($22,000).

In May, the ever-popular Tussock Country – NZ Country Music Festival 2026 will also receive $30,000 for promotional and marketing activities from Government.

This comes on top of $79,000 in Regional Events Promotion funding, last year supporting seven Southern events, including the George Begg Festival.

We all know that we live in one of the best parts of the world – now thanks to Government support, more people will also get to hear about Southland and the wonderful events that we have to offer.

Funded by Parliamentary Services, published by arrangement.

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