Independent review of New Zealand’s approach to events

About the review

In 2026, MBIE commissioned MartinJenkins to undertake an independent review of New Zealand's approach to events. The review was commissioned in response to the Government's increased focus on events as a tool to support national objectives, including economic growth, tourism, international reputation and social outcomes.

The purpose of the independent review was to provide practical recommendations on how central government should position itself to support a well-coordinated, outcomes-focused events system that maximises public value from government investment. It examined how New Zealand plans for, invests in and delivers events across the full events ecosystem, including major and mega events, regional events, community events and business events. It drew on stakeholder engagement from across the sector, an analysis of New Zealand's current settings, and comparisons with international jurisdictions.

Key findings

The independent review found that events generate significant economic, social, cultural and reputational benefits for New Zealand. It found that New Zealand’s events system has a strong base to build from, but it is not yet structured to consistently realise the full public value opportunity from events.

To address this, the independent review recommends a more coordinated, strategic and outcomes-focused approach to events. It proposes a staged programme of reform to build the foundations for a stronger and more effective events system over time.

The independent review’s findings are not Government policy.