One of New Zealand’s largest agricultural and community events has generated an estimated $19.3 million in additional spending for the Southern Lakes region.
The Wānaka A&P Show, held on March 13 and 14 this year, attracted more than 44,000 attendees — the largest crowd in the event’s history.
The figures, from an independent economic impact assessment, found the show generated $19.3m in spending that would not have occurred in the absence of the event.
The assessment also found the show was continuing to attract new audiences with 15% of attendees visiting the show for the first time.
Upper Clutha A&P Society chairman Keith Cooper said the results demonstrated the importance of the show to the local economy and community.
Mr Cooper said the benefits of the show extended well beyond the event weekend.
Planning for the milestone 90th Wānaka A&P Show, to be held March 12 and 13, 2027, was already under way. — Allied Media
