Air New Zealand Champions Aotearoa’s Regional Events with Nationwide Sponsorship Initiative

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Air New Zealand has reaffirmed its commitment to Aotearoa by launching its Regional Events Sponsorship Programme, providing crucial backing for 19 regional events across the country. This initiative is part of the airline’s broader goal to support New Zealand’s tourism and economic growth, while showcasing the country’s diverse landscapes, people, and cultures. By sponsoring these events, Air New Zealand aims to foster greater community engagement and boost regional tourism, helping local economies thrive.

From the wild coastlines of the West Coast to the vibrant vineyards of Hawke’s Bay, and from Northland’s foodie havens to the cultural celebrations in Ōtepoti, Air New Zealand is helping to highlight the best that New Zealand has to offer. Through this initiative, the airline is actively supporting tourism development, while offering both local and international visitors the chance to experience New Zealand’s hidden gems.

Supporting Communities and Building Connections

Air New Zealand’s CEO, Nikhil Ravishankar, spoke of the airline’s pride in supporting these events. He emphasized the importance of connecting people and fostering a deeper appreciation of New Zealand’s regions. “These events showcase the very best of our regions. They bring people together, tell our stories, and celebrate the incredible talent and hospitality found right across Aotearoa,” Ravishankar said.

This sponsorship is not just about flying passengers from one place to another. Air New Zealand’s focus on supporting these regional events aligns with its broader mission of helping Kiwis discover the magic in their own backyard. By backing these events, the airline plays a crucial role in driving tourism, attracting visitors, and boosting local economies. As Ravishankar pointed out, this initiative underscores what makes New Zealand such a special place to live and visit.

Tailored Support for a Diverse Range of Events

Each of the 19 regional events selected for sponsorship will receive tailored support from Air New Zealand. This includes everything from flights and marketing initiatives to promotional activity, ensuring the events have the resources to thrive and grow. The programme offers a three-year commitment, providing the event organisers with much-needed certainty for future growth and development.

The selected events span a wide range of industries, from food and wine to sport, fashion, and the arts, showcasing the country’s rich diversity. Whether it’s the chardonnay celebrations in Gisborne or the wildfoods festival in Hokitika, each event plays a pivotal role in putting the regions they represent on the map.

Regional Events Boosting Local Economies

The sponsorship programme also supports regional economic development, helping bring more visitors to smaller towns and rural areas. Tourism and Hospitality Minister, Louise Upston, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting its role in expanding tourism beyond the main urban centres. “When visitors spend time in our smaller towns and regions, they’re supporting local businesses, cafes, and accommodation providers, helping create jobs and drive economic growth,” Upston said.

By encouraging travel to New Zealand’s lesser-known destinations, Air New Zealand’s Regional Events Sponsorship Programme helps spread the economic benefits of tourism across the country, ensuring that the positive impacts of tourism reach all corners of Aotearoa.

A Diverse Line-Up of Supported Events

The 19 events supported by Air New Zealand range from cultural festivals to wine and food showcases, providing something for every interest. Here’s a look at the diverse events being supported:

1. SCOFF in Timaru (5–21 September 2025)
2. On Show in Christchurch (1 September–30 November 2025)
3. Savour Northland in Kerikeri & Whangārei (1–31 October 2025)
4. Manawatū Garden Festival in Palmerston North (12–16 November 2025)
5. Coastal 5 Taranaki in New Plymouth (15–16 November 2025)
6. The Spectacle in Nelson (5–6 December 2025)
7. Bridge Pa Wine Festival in Napier (17 January 2026)
8. Hamilton Arts Festival in Hamilton (20 February–1 March 2026)
9. Moana Auckland in Auckland (28 February–15 March 2026)
10. Wildfoods Festival in Hokitika (14 March 2026)
11. Flavours of Plenty Festival in Tauranga (16 April–3 May 2026)
12. Faultline Ultra in Wellington (25–26 April 2026)
13. Electrify in Queenstown (19–21 May 2026)
14. The Chardonnay Affair in Gisborne (22–24 May 2026)
15. Tussock Country Music Festival in Invercargill / Gore (22–31 May 2026)
16. Aronui Drone Festival in Rotorua (9–11 July 2026)
17. Matariki mā Puaka Celebration in Dunedin (10 July 2026)
18. Marlborough Book Festival in Blenheim (24–26 July 2026)
19. Treats of Taupō in Taupō (28 September–4 October 2026)

Looking Forward: A Bright Future for Regional Tourism

With the commitment from Air New Zealand, these events have the potential to grow in reach and impact, creating more opportunities for New Zealand communities. By spotlighting regional celebrations, the airline not only enhances the travel experience but also contributes to the sustainable growth of tourism in New Zealand.

As tourism continues to evolve, it’s clear that initiatives like the Regional Events Sponsorship Programme play a key role in ensuring that New Zealand’s hidden gems are discovered by both local and international visitors. These events provide the perfect opportunity to explore the diverse, vibrant, and welcoming communities across the country.