Photo: Getty ImagesThere are allegations of corporate concert welfare and promoters holding the government to ransom over funding for big events while home grown talent is left out. The government has announced it will be using the Major Events and Tourism fund to help fund British pop star Robbie Williams' tour to New Zealand. The $70 million fund is aimed at stimulating economic activity around entertainment events, and $40 million of that money is to secure large-scale international events. It has also contributed undisclosed amounts to other gigs including Linkin Park and Wellington's Ultra music festival - that includes major international DJs. Photo: James MinchinSplore Festival producer Fred Kublikowski applied for event funding through the Major Events and Tourism Fund, but was denied.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 18, 2026 11:53 UTC