The Government is investing in major events that will deliver real economic benefits for the Coromandel and support local jobs and businesses, says Coromandel MP Scott Simpson.
“I’m excited that the Coromandel will once again host the Whitianga Oceans Festival in September 2026, attracting visitors from around New Zealand and overseas, as part of the $70 million Major Events and Tourism Package. “
“Major events are critical for our hospitality and tourism sectors, especially here in the Coromandel. Accommodations fill up, restaurants and cafés thrive, and local businesses see more customers, creating jobs and lifting incomes.”
“Across New Zealand, Tourism directly contributes $17 billion to national GDP and just under 200,000 jobs. Tourism makes up almost 12% of Coromandel’s GDP. The economic ripple effect of major events is huge, supporting our local businesses and growing our economy.”
“Events such as the Whitianga Oceans Festival don’t just bring visitors; they bring life and energy to our region and to our towns which helps to create vibrant communities and unforgettable experiences.”
“This funding is a significant boost to Whitianga and the wider Coromandel, and I’m looking forward to our region hosting another great event which encourages locals and visitors to celebrate all that we have offer.”
Authorised by Scott Simpson, Parliament Buildings, Wellington
If the Whitianga Oceans Festival focussed on protecting the integrity of our marine spaces then it may be legitimate to spend taxes on such an event…..but if it is about encouraging exploitation of our ocean just for excessive eating and alcohol consumption, then I can’t accept the legitimacy of such expenditure. You may recall that the Scallop Festival, as the Oceans Festival was originally up until a couple of years ago, had to have a brand change because the Scallop fishery had been destroyed by excessive harvesting.