Major events continue to drive growth across Kāpiti

When thousands of people arrive in Kāpiti for an event, the impact is felt well beyond the event gates. They bring people through our doors, create opportunities for local businesses, and help tell the story of Kāpiti as a place worth discovering.

Six events that will attract visitors to the Kāpiti Coast and contribute to the local economy have secured support through Kāpiti Coast District Council's Major Events Fund for 2026/27.

This year's funding recipients are Kāpiti Food Fair, Kāpiti Women's Triathlon, Māoriland Film Festival, Ōtaki Kite Festival, NZ PGA Championship, and Mostly Music Festival of X, which has received strategic growth funding as a new event with strong alignment to the Kāpiti Coast Destination Management Plan.

Together, these events represent the diversity of experiences that make Kāpiti unique—from food and culture to sport and community celebration.

Mayor Janet Holborow says major events are an important part of growing Kāpiti's visitor economy and building the district's reputation as a vibrant destination year-round.

"Each of the six successful major events offer a diverse experience that will encourage visitors to stay longer, spend locally, and discover more of what Kāpiti has to offer.

"Major events play an important role in driving visitation and supporting accommodation, hospitality, retail, transport and other local businesses, which creates momentum across the wider visitor economy."

For local businesses, that momentum matters.

Visitors attending an event often do more than simply arrive and leave. They book accommodation, stop for coffee, enjoy a meal, browse local shops, and extend their stay to explore the district. Every visitor interaction creates an opportunity for Kāpiti businesses to benefit.

Last year's Major Events Fund delivered encouraging results, with four funded events reporting an estimated 16,430 attendees and contributing more than $4 million to the local economy.

Economic Development Kotahitanga Board Chair Neil Mackay says the value of major events extends beyond the event itself.

"Major events have a clear strategic and business impact for Kāpiti, helping to lift the district's profile, attract new audiences, and create opportunities for local businesses to benefit from increased visitation."

This year, $180,000 was available through the fund, including dedicated support for new and emerging events that present strategic growth opportunities for the district.

As Kāpiti continues to position itself as a destination where people come to stay a little longer, major events remain an important part of the story—bringing fresh audiences to our region and helping our business community thrive.