The Government has announced the sixth round of the Tourism Infrastructure Fund which will allocate up to $25 million to support councils with high visitor numbers but small ratepayer bases.
The new Matariki public holiday starting this year will fall on 24 June. It is intended that this funding could help support the delivery and management of this event. “Ideas could involve redeveloping council reserves to include safe stargazing areas with low-impact lighting and shelters. It might see upgraded walkways and interpretive signs around important food-gathering sites for local iwi, like wetlands, historic gardens, forests, rivers and the ocean" according to Associate Tourism Minister Peeni Henare.
Last year the Fund supported 57 projects across the country through more than $18 million of funding. Toilets were the most frequently funded projects, though dump stations, smart bins, viewing platforms, upgraded water supplies and parking areas, boat ramps and wharf replacements all figured in previous rounds.
Applications close on 28 March 2022.
Read the Beehive press release.
Access the application details on the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment website.