Events as diverse as the Puhinui Horse Trials, the city’s Santa Parade and Big Gay Out have been backed as part of a $460,500 Auckland Council funding round.
Council’s Community Committee chair, Manurewa-Papakura Councillor Angela Dalton, says more than 20 organisations delivering events across the city have been funded.
“We think it’s important that Aucklanders can participate in and enjoy a range of events that reflect the diversity of our city.
“People might look at the list of those funded and think they would never attend such and such an event, but others will look and see events they consider help make our city what it is.
“It would be a pretty dull old world of we all enjoyed the same things, and regardless, these events attract strong support and bring economic benefits to the city.”
The support comes from the Regional Events Fund Grants Programme and is designed to deliver benefits to communities by contributing to a sense of place and connection.
“Regular, vibrant events play an important part in our cultural, sporting and social calendar,” Dalton says.
Events are an important part of Auckland Council's strategy for bringing people together.
Included in the list of events funded are a broad range of arts, sports and cultural events, including the Auckland International Buskers Festival, Takapuna Winter Lights, ASB Polyfest and Iwi of Origin.
Auckland Council events head Glynn Leggat says staff assessed each application against regional event funding criteria.
“Many factors were considered in allocating funding including positive benefits to the community - with particular emphasis on youth and Māori, how well the event is planned, community support and involvement, and alignment with key dates such as Auckland Anniversary Weekend.”
The Regional Event Grants Programme for 2024-25 has a total budget of $600,000. The remaining $139,500 is expected to be allocated next March.
For a list of supported events visit OurAuckland.
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