Four major events in Manawatu have received a funding boost from the Central Economic Development Agency’s (CEDA) Major Events Fund.
Round One consisted of $65,000 worth of funding being allocated in total, with CEDA coordinating a panel of judges to evaluate all of the applications.
“The calibre of applications was extremely high and it’s encouraging to see so many vibrant events planned for the region, as we strive to make Manawatu New Zealand’s most progressive region by 2025.” said Linda Stewart, CEDA’s chief executive.
The Major Events Fund’s objectives include supporting events that generate local economic activity and development for the region, enhance vibrancy and community pride within Manawatu, as well as ones that attract visitors from outside the region.
The recipients are as follows:
ANZ Premiership Super Sunday Weekend – $15,000
Palmerston North and the Central Pulse Netball team will host the opening round of the competition with a Super Sunday Weekend on 6-7 May, 2018. It will be the second time in the past ten years that the event is held outside of Auckland.
Porter Hire International Sprint Car Series, Round 2 – $15,000
Four of America’s top sprintcar drivers will come to Manawatu to race against New Zealand’s fastest drivers on December 12, 2017.
2018 New Zealand International Motocross Grand Prix – $15,000
The annual event is hosted in Woodville and attracts competitors from New Zealand and around the world. The competition is on January 27-28, 2018.
Gravel and Tar – $20,000
The Gravel and Tar event consists of two major cycling races: the Classic, for elite professional cyclists from New Zealand and overseas and GranFondo, for any keen cyclists. The circuit includes Palmerston North City and the Ashhurst-Pohangina Region. It will be held on January 27, 2018.
Round Two of the Major Events Fund opens to applicants on April 1, 2018.
Note to editors:
Applicants can apply for up to $25,000 for new and existing major events that show a track record of growth or growth potential. The funding is to be used for marketing costs, strategic plan developments or the engagement of short-term specialised personal, and is distributed through a 12-month contract between CEDA and each of the successful applicants.
For more information:
Jemma Brackebush
Communications Senior
0272 535393
