World Masters Games 2017 Limited (WMG2017) has announced an event surplus, subject to a final audit.
The ninth edition of the World Masters Games was declared the ‘best ever’ by the rights holder, the International Masters Games Association, a sentiment reflected by post-event analysis.
“It was an outstanding World Masters Games experience for the 28,578 participants involved and proved once again that New Zealand can deliver a complex major event with imagination and operational excellence.” said WMG2017 Chairman Sir John Wells.
Watch a video of the highlights
Supporting amateur sport
The surplus will be used to establish a fund for amateur sports events and initiatives across the 28 sports involved in the Games. The fund, accessible by grant application, is to be administered by Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED). The fund criteria and process for applications are being developed and the 28 Games sports will be advised of this detail in due course.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to give something back to the organisations that supported us in delivering such a flawless Games. It’s fitting that we can help enable ongoing participation in amateur sport in Auckland and New Zealand as a legacy of hosting WMG2017,” said Chief Executive Jennah Wootten.
Exceeding expectations
The Games drew in $34.2m incremental GDP and 241,480 visitor nights for Auckland against the targets of $30.8m GDP and 224,000 visitor nights. At a nationwide level it achieved $63m incremental GDP and 302,509 visitor nights for New Zealand against the targets of $52.3m GDP and 266,190 visitor nights respectively.
WMG2017 scored a big tick from athletes and supporters with 89% agreeing they were well organised. 91% of Auckland residents said the event enhanced their pride in the city. The target in both cases was 85%.
The next World Masters Games take place in Kansai, Japan from 15-30 May, 2021.
