Economic and cultural development

What we are planning for economic and cultural development in the Annual Plan 2026/2027.

Illustration of cultural celebrations and zoo animals, including a group performing under a ‘DIWALI’ sign, a toucan in a tree, an anteater, a flamingo and a sloth hanging from a branch, with city buildings in the background.

In the 2026/2027 financial year, we plan to:

  • work with central government to find new ways to attract visitors to Auckland and support economic activity and growth. This includes:
    • funding activities and promotions to get more people to visit Auckland
    • a possible 'visitor levy' to help fund major events and marketing
  • continue to hold cultural events like Pasifika Festival, Diwali and the Lantern Festival
  • continue to provide events, attractions, and activities for visitors at Auckland Zoo, Auckland Art Gallery and New Zealand Maritime Museum
  • attract and support international and domestic events, including musicals, concerts and exhibitions
  • support Upper Harbour and Hibiscus and Bays local boards to develop a plan for the future of North Harbour Stadium.

How much we plan to spend on economic and cultural development in 2026/2027

Type of spend Amount

Operational spend:
for day-to-day running costs, like staff, maintenance and services.

$210 million

Capital spend:
for major upgrades or to buy or build long-term assets, like music venues and marae facilities.

$77 million

Have your say

We want to know what you think about our proposals for this annual plan.

Visit Annual plan documents, videos and translations for more information about our plans and proposals in the:

  • Annual Plan 2026/2027 Consultation Document
  • Annual Plan 2026/2027 Supporting Information Document.
Have your say now

You should know

The information on this page is an edited version of the Annual Plan 2026/2027 Consultation Document.

Blue circle showing three people below a red cog.