Wedd said the funding for each event was dependent on the ability to attract tourists to stimulate economic development.
“Supporting regional events encourages travel to less-visited areas, which in turn benefits local businesses such as accommodations and restaurants, leading to economic growth in those regions.”
Wedd said the funding would benefit rural Hawke’s Bay by driving economic growth in smaller communities.
“This funding is all about supporting provincial New Zealand and getting money out of Wellington and into rural New Zealand.”
“Tukituki is a rural electorate, and we are seeing a direct benefit here with funding coming straight to events which do so much for our region.”
She said it would enhance local facilities and showcase the area’s natural beauty and agricultural heritage.
Napier MP Katie Nimon said local events, whether large or small, were fantastic opportunities for tourists and Kiwis from throughout New Zealand to explore beyond the main centres.
“This investment will …