The Government will contribute up to $6 million from the Major Events Fund to support the Winter Games between 2023 and 2027, Sports Minister, Grant Robertson has announced.
Mr Robertson said the investment would give long-term confidence to Winter Games organisers and commercial partners.
“The Winter Games NZ are an international snow sports event designed to bring international athletes here during the Northern Hemisphere offseason,” he said.
“The competition in Central Otago aligns strongly with Sport NZ and High-Performance Sport NZ strategies and is critical to our campaign planning and preparation for the Winter Olympics.
“The Winter Games also help ensure Kiwi snow sport athletes can compete in a significant competition in front of a home audience, which supports the athletes and inspires future talent.
“The Winter Games are a unique element of the sports landscape and significant in the development of aspirational and elite athletes. I am proud that organisers and athletes can now look forward to a great competition,” he said.
Economic Development Minister, Barbara Edmonds said event organisers will work with local businesses and Chambers of Commerce to promote economic opportunities and sponsorship activities around the Games.
“The event was first held in 2009 and has grown to become the largest annual snow sports event in the Southern Hemisphere. We look forward to working with event organisers to maximise the benefits for Kiwis,” Minister Edmonds said.
The 2023 event will run from 25 August to 16 September and includes Freeski, Snowboard, Alpine Ski racing and Freeride events. Further events and a full schedule are expected to be confirmed soon.
