Event landscape bright for Waipā
Waipā event organisers are being encouraged to keep planning and bringing their champion events to life in the district.
Applications are open today (Monday 8 June) for the District Promotion Fund, with $150,000 available to events that promote Waipā as an attractive place to live, work, invest in or visit.
The Community Event Fund also opens with $30,000 available for grassroots events that build and celebrate community pride.
Waipā mayor Jim Mylchreest said although there were currently restrictions around events, the future looked bright for local event organisers.
“We encourage our event organisers to keep calm, plan for the future and make the most of funding and practical assistance available.
“We know our communities will be excited to get out and support local events as restrictions around gatherings are gradually lifted.”
Mylchreest said events would be key in helping the district’s economy recover and attract domestic visitors to Waipā.
“Whether it’s cycling on our roads, paddling on our lakes or celebrating in our public spaces, events have a positive effect on the district by boosting community pride, connecting residents and creating economic growth.”
To ensure all event organisers have a chance to apply for funding, any unallocated funds from this round will be available during the year as Council recognises some event organisers will need more time to plan their 2020 and 2021 events.
If event restrictions are still in place by an event’s date, Council will work with organisers on changes to an application. The number of attendees allowed at gatherings is now at 100.
Council will continue to offer planning advice and the use of the self-help toolkit on whatsonwaipa.co.nz. Waipā Home of Champions event equipment will also be available for some events.
Application forms are available to download at www.waipadc.govt.nz/funding. Application forms can be emailed to events@waipadc.govt.nz or dropped off at Council offices before the funding round closes on Friday 17 July 2020.