Wellington’s summer of events delivers $15.9m economic benefit to the capital

Wellington’s event line-up took centre stage throughout the summer months, delivering an estimated $15.9 million of visitor spend through its diverse programme of events.

Summertime calendar highlights including Jim Beam Homegrown, Māoriland Film Festival and Toast Martinborough drew impressive crowds, and sports action including BLACKCAPS and WHITE FERNS cricket matches and the NZ Breakers basketball game proved popular with local, out-of-region and international visitors.

Adding to the city’s vibrant arts and music scene were five sold-out comedy shows at the Michael Fowler Centre featuring Sarah Millican, Paul Smith, and Jack Whitehall, three sold-out Graham Norton shows, Groove Armada at TSB Arena, and the launch of the St James and The Opera House theatre tours.

Between December 2024 and March 2025, Wellington hosted 72 events spanning major, regional and performance events, resulting in 211,686 people taking to the region over that period.

Heidi Morton, WellingtonNZ Events & Experiences general manager, says: “Events bring vibrancy, liveliness and atmosphere to Wellington for both locals and visitors — and this summer was no exception. Featuring a fusion of sports, festivals, music and arts events in the calendar, there was something for everyone this season.

“These impressive results endorse the capital’s major events strategic framework delivered by WellingtonNZ, working in partnership with the events sector to maximise the economic, reputational and social outcomes to the region. The accommodation, hospitality, and retail sectors have all seen a benefit from the breadth of events that have taken place over the last few months.”

Recent research figures have revealed that 90% of locals agreed that hosting events makes Wellington a great place to live.

“Events don’t just fill calendars — they ignite civic pride and bring communities together. Wellingtonians are strong supporters of our events schedule, and it’s important that continues,” says Heidi.

While summer remains a key season, WellingtonNZ’s events teams recognise the broader impact of events and actively secure a vibrant, diverse line-up to keep the city’s calendar thriving year-round.

This autumn and winter, the city welcomes an eclectic schedule including NZ International Comedy Festival, Kia Mau Festival, a series of All Blacks and Black Ferns matches, Hot Wheels Monster Trucks, Visa Wellington On a Plate, Beervana, Dracula’s: Sanctuary, and Mamma Mia — an exclusive to Wellington.

For more information about WellingtonNZ’s events programme or to secure tickets, visit our Events section.

Date published: 12 May 2025