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

You should know

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

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.

Blue circle showing three people below a red cog.