Far North festivals get boost from Government tourism funding

The Brew of Islands is among several local festivals set to receive a funding boost, along with the Upsurge Bay of Islands Arts Festival and the Fired-Up Barbecue Festival.

The Far North is set to benefit from an injection of regional tourism funding, with the Government supporting local festivals through the Regional Events Promotion Fund.

Northland MP Grant McCallum said the Government is encouraging more New Zealanders to visit Northland.

“I’m thrilled to see Northland included in this round of funding support,” McCallum said.

“These events are a great way to bring people into our region, support local businesses, and showcase the culture and hospitality that make the Far North so special.”

The funding will support a range of events across the region, including the Upsurge Bay of Islands Arts Festival, the Brew of Islands and the Fired Up Barbecue Festival.

Brew of Islands will receive $15,000; the Fired Up Barbecue Festival will receive $30,000 and the Upsurge Bay of Islands Arts Festival will receive $7300.

“I want to see people in our towns, right across Northland, helping our tourism operators, food producers, and small businesses thrive,” McCallum said.

“Events like these are great drawcards. They help bring more visitors into places like the Bay of Islands, Kaipara and all of Northland to create economic activity, and help keep local jobs and businesses going year-round.

“This National-led Government is committed to backing regional growth and delivering practical support to communities like ours.”

Across two rounds, the Regional Events Promotion Fund has supported 284 events across the country. A full list of successful applications is available on the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment website.