A major sporting event is expected to deliver a significant economic boost for Timaru and the wider South Canterbury region later this year.

Rangitata MP James Meager said the Government’s investment in the 2026 South Island Masters Games would bring clear benefits to the region.

“The Government’s investment in the 2026 South Island Masters Games, taking place in Timaru this October, is a win for our town and wider region,” Meager said.

“This event will attract thousands of visitors to Timaru and South Canterbury, generating significant economic benefits for local businesses.”

Meager said major events played a vital role in supporting hospitality and tourism operators across the region.

“Major events like this are critical for our hospitality and tourism sectors. Hotels fill up, restaurants and cafés thrive, and stores see spikes in customers,” he said.

“This all supports local jobs and lifts incomes.”

The South Island Masters Games will feature 40 sports and around 500 events across an 11 day programme. The 2026 event will also mark the Games’ 25th anniversary.

“The South Island Masters Games will feature 40 sports and 500 events throughout the 11 day event,” Meager said.

“It’s also celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. I couldn’t think of a better place to mark this occasion than the Riviera of the South.”

He said funding support came through the National led Government’s $70 million Major Events and Tourism Package.

“Support for this event stems from the National led Government’s $70 million Major Events and Tourism Package,” Meager said.

“The second tranche of funding, announced today and totalling more than $3.2 million, will fund events from the Bay of Islands to Tekapo.”

Meager said other South Island events included in the funding announcement were the Christchurch Spring Fashion Festival 2026, Merrell Race Tekapo, the Nelson Arts Festival, and the Spectacle in Nelson.

“Further announcements are expected in the coming weeks and months,” he said.

He said tourism continued to play a major role in the national economy.

“Tourism is New Zealand’s second largest export, directly contributing $17 billion to GDP and just under 200,000 jobs,” Meager said.

“Event spending contributes approximately 1.4 percent to the country’s GDP.”

“There’s no doubt our Government’s investment will provide a strong economic return through increased visitor spending and boosts to retail and hospitality, which will strongly benefit our local communities and people,” he said.