NZAEP Events Update April

APR 2015

[email protected] — New Zealand Association of Event Professionals, c/o P O Box 3798, Auckland 1140 ISSN 1179-3678 — Subscription is a member exclusive event — contact [email protected] for details

Win A FREE REgistRAtion to conFEREncE — See page 1

nZAEP AnnuAl AWARds EntRiEs noW oPEn — See page 4

cRAnkWoRx lEssons lEARnt — See page 7

Page 2Events Update, April 2015

The restrictions on alcohol sponsorship that may arise from the Cabinet meeting in June lead to some further issues for the events industry: if implemented, the pressure increases to find new funding and sponsorship to run events.

As we know, events deliver far more than just the activity of the day. They do much for our communities, our regions and our economy in generating community spirit, regional pride, understanding cultural diversity, jobs, volunteering

opportunities and, in terms of sporting events, promotion of an active and healthy lifestyle.

There are many events, therefore, that NZAEP believes should be supported by public funding or private trusts to maintain these overarching benefits to our society.

But the new restrictions will no doubt put further restraints on an industry that has already experienced the shrinking pool of Gaming Trusts and the reduction of

corporate sponsorship that resulted during the world recession.

NZAEP is currently overviewing the content of the NZME Resource Bank, and see an opportunity for a new module called Revenue Generation.

New information in such a module could focus on innovative case studies which have developed important new revenue streams or partnerships with private parties.

Certainly NZAEP would agree the problem of alcohol abuse and alcohol-related incidents needs a solution. But it is not just occurring at sporting and cultural events – and it’s not every person that is drinking irresponsibly. We need to think long and hard before removing sponsorship opportunities which will put events that provide so much that is good and positive in our communities, at risk.

Email your thoughts: - [email protected] ●

In launching the new NZAEP website, we’re now chasing the best of the best event photos to include on it.

Like us on Facebook and post your best event photo there by 30 April, 2015 and be in to win a FREE registration to the Eventing the Future conference in Wellington on 22/23 July.

The criteria are:

• The event must have taken place between 1 April 2014 and 31 March 2015.

• The person uploading the photo has authority to provide the rights to display the photo on NZAEP’s website.

• The photo should then be posted on www.facebook.com/nzaep and provide

Where will increased funding and sponsorship come from?

Best Event Photo Competition – win a FREE registration to Eventing the Future Conference (worth $600)

FROM THE CEO

July 22-23, WellingtonFor further info

details of what, when and where.

• All decisions are final and the photo judged to be the best, will win one free registration to the Eventing the Future conference on 22/23 July in Wellington (flights and accommodation are not included)

Thanks to Eventing the Future for sponsoring this competition.

The top ten entries will be featured on our website with special mention in Events Update. ● Like us on

FacebookFront cover photo: Clint Trahan Crankworx Rotorua

Page 3Events Update, April 2015

Vital Volunteers

When Keri Iva first volunteered for the Motatapu Off-Road Sporting Event run out of Wanaka and Arrowtown, he was initially nervous. Now he’s a veteran volunteer, having given his time eight years in a row.

It wasn’t just the view and the free Icebreaker tee that inspired him to keep volunteering – it was the camaraderie he felt within the ranks of the event’s volunteers and organisers.

“After doing the event for so long, it became like a big family, “ says Keri. “Every year it’s a lot of fun. And because it’s a community event, it’s a real close knit group.”

In terms of his role, Keri says he sees it as a way to help out in the community and provide the competitors’ with encouragement. “I enjoy helping those doing the course – it’s their day and we make it as pleasant as possible for them.”

It’s this sort of commitment to volunteering that makes event organisers like Nicole Fairweather, Volunteer Coordinator for the Motatapu, thrilled. That’s because the volunteer component is crucial to the event’s success – on a number of levels.

“We literally couldn’t run the event without them,” says Nicole. “They are our eyes and ears out on the course, they support what the event management team is doing at every juncture and their faces and smiles back up our organisation and our event’s reputation. And that’s on top of also assisting our competitors on their way around the course.”

Key to recruiting and maintaining a strong volunteer base is support and training – because neglecting to train and support your volunteers, or ensure their experience is a positive one, may mean they won’t volunteer again.

Maria Walker, Event Manager for the Kellogg’s Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand event, says volunteers are often involved in an event across the board – from bag packing and check-in, course and transition build and breakdown to event marshalling, aid stations and assistance at the finish line – meaning volunteers play an integral role across the entire event.

The volunteers’, “remarkable support for our event and especially for the athletes on race day has become a much-heralded part of our event,” says Maria. “They represent around 10 percent of the Taupo community which is quite amazing, with many businesses giving their employees paid time off to become involved.

“Over the 31 years of this event in Auckland and Taupo, there have been in excess of 50,000 volunteers assist us.”

The local flavour that these volunteers bring adds a whole different dimension, particularly for an event such as IRONMAN, which is attended by a number of out-of-town or international visitors.

So how should event organisers make sure their volunteers feel valued?

Denise Armstrong, National Events Manager for Fairfax Media, which manages the

The key to finding – and keeping – great volunteers for your event

Auckland Round The Bays event, says the key is to provide a challenging but fun working environment.

“We ensure volunteers feel part of our event team and understand their role is important to the success of the event. We also invite volunteers to be part of post event debriefs and celebrations.”

As far as what sort of person makes a great volunteer, Denise says that is someone, ”who is keen to do a range of tasks, and not afraid to get stuck in and give anything a go. We also love volunteers who are happy working as part of a wider team, can take direction but can also give direction when needed.”

When it comes to volunteering

Where can I get great Guidelines?

Page 4Events Update, April 2015

NZAEP Annual Award Entries now open!NZAEP will recognise excellence in the events sector with the annual NZAEP Event Awards, Wednesday 22 July in Wellington.

The Awards recognise all types and sizes of events and the people behind them, showcasing the true diversity of the sector as a whole.

Categories include:

• Young Event Professional Award

• Best Event Professional Award

• Best Emerging Event

• Best Established Community Event

• Best Established Regional Event

• Best New Zealand Owned Major Event

• Best New Zealand Hosted Major Event

• Best partnership For an Event

• Best One Off Event

Why Enter?

Celebrating the successes within the Events sector goes beyond our own industry.

Upon receiving a NZAEP Event Award, your own event and organisations profile will increase as an example of excellence in New Zealand events.

Becoming a NZAEP Event Award winner, you will be able to:

• Leverage your Award with promotional opportunities, generating new PR through your finalist or winner status.

• Demonstrate your achievements to existing and potential clients

• Network exclusively with the finest in the industry

• Inspire and lead the New Zealand Events sector, increasing your own professionalism both within the industry and out.

Click here for further information on NZAEP Awards and how to enter

Click here to start your online application

COMPLETED ENTRIES MUST BE SUBMITTED BY FRIDAY 29 MAY 2015

our time, New Zealanders as a group rank fairly highly.

Minister of Community and Volunteers, Jo Goodhew, says even though we are a small country, the average person in New Zealand donates far more of their time volunteering each day than any other country in the OECD.

“Since 2010, New Zealand has been annually ranked in the top five countries in the World Giving Index. Around one-third of people undertake voluntary work for an organisation, and about two-thirds undertake unpaid work outside their home (such as helping in their neighbourhood).

“The figures are currently being updated, but approximately 429,000 volunteers give up their time every week for their community. This generosity is the force behind sports clubs, animal welfare groups, training organisations, faith communities, social services, human rights groups and conservation groups, to name a few.”

Online volunteer resource volunteernet.org.nz

outlines that it’s important to remember that when a volunteer gives their time, they are entering a partnership with you as an event organiser to represent your organisation.

How great that partnership will be comes down to how well that volunteer is equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to be the best representative they can be.

For volunteers like Keri Iva, the strength of the partnership he has with the Motatapu event is exactly why he’s likely to be back again for a ninth year.

Vital Volunteers Cont...

2014 winners photo

Check out VolunteerNet! NOW ABLE TO REGISTER GROUPS OF VOLUNTEERS!

Both event managers and volunteers can register on the site at no cost.

This free web tool which connects events with volunteers and provides useful resources and advice. To view the resources, including best practice when it comes to finding volunteers and making sure their experience is a worthwhile one, visit www.volunteernet.org.nz

Register your event in 3 easy steps!

volunteernet.org.nz

Page 5Events Update, April 2015

Conference Programme Announced

Health and Safety Seminars NEXT WEEK

Inspiration, Motivation and Networking are the outcomes which the national conference for Events Professionals - Eventing the Future 2015 is aiming to achieve with this year’s programme just released.

The focus is on addressing some of the challenges for the sector – namely, commercialising events to attract alternative income sources; meeting business needs; and audience engagement. Part of Eventing the Future continues to provide the international and national insights that influence investment and provide commercial and community opportunities.

Providing some of this insight is Gang-hoan Jeong, a world leading event and tourism researcher and

consultant. Professor Jeong has researched events in New Zealand as well as globally and is one of the few people who can provide insights into global trends, challenges and opportunities. Gang-hoan will provide two sessions at the conference to expand horizons and ideas with case studies and his global experiences. And he likes playing in the

mud - having been involved in the development of the famous Boryeong Mud Festival, he is currently providing expert advice to Rotorua in the development of their new mud festival.

Our own homegrown marketing heavyweight and cultural entrepreneur, Peter Biggs is the second keynote

announced. Recently returned to New Zealand, with a string of awards after his name, Peter has recently taken up the role of inaugural Chair of the Wellington Regional Economic Development Agency (WREDA) and will influence strongly the investment in events in Wellington region. Peter will provide his extensive experience to challenge, inform, debate how we commercialise events and engage with audiences – two key themes featuring throughout the conference.

Check out the full programme on the Eventing the Future website and also the special rates offered to NZAEP members, and three or more registrants from the same organisation.

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FREE for membersPresenters: Aaron Lloyd, Partner with Minter Ellison Rudd Watts and Worksafe New Zealand.

Auckland: Tuesday 21st April, 4.00 – 6.00pm, Minter Ellison Rudd Watts, Level 20, Lumley Centre, 88 Shortland St.

Christchurch: Thursday 23rd April, 9.00 -11.00am, Function Room, Level 1, Christchurch City Council, 53 Hereford St.

RSVP: Lisa Dempsey, email: [email protected] indicating ‘Auckland’ or ‘Christchurch’ and your name and organisation (maximum 2 people).

FREE to Members, $35.00 inc GST for Non-Members.

Professor Jeong and Peter Biggs, Keynote speakers

As an NZAEP member, you receive a $230 discount per registration to Conference in July.

Secure the Early Bird rates and save another $115. Click here for registration information

STOP PRESS: $230 diSCOuNT FOR NZAEP mEmBERS

July 22-23, WellingtonFor further info

Page 6Events Update, April 2015

do you know your NZAEP Board?1. Why do you feel it’s important to be involved with NZAEP at the board level?

I feel incredibly privileged to work in the events sector in my home country. I have worked in the events space for 12 years now and being a board member is a way for me to give back to the industry, ensuring the phenomenal growth within the sector is nurtured and sustained.

2. What do you get excited about when thinking about the New Zealand events industry?

We are known globally as being a world class events destination. Both our event professionals and our event products have such a well-regarded reputation. It excites me to help guide and shape the overall industry.

3. What’s one of the biggest issues for the industry this year?

One of the issues that has been emerging for some time, and will only become more apparent, is the number of events in the market. Often we talk about people only being

able to stretch their dollar so far, but it also comes down to time. Over the past few weekends alone, Auckland has seen the Pasifika Festival, Lantern Festival, a Cricket World Cup match at Eden Park, the Volvo Ocean Race in Port Race, the inaugural Ultimate Waterman event and the two Eagles concerts. That is a huge amount of event activity for people to choose from, for sponsors to consider and also for the media to cover.

4. What is particularly exciting for New Zealand about the World Masters’ Games?

The World Masters Games is the world’s largest multi-sport event by participation numbers and it is incredibly inclusive. We are expecting 25,000 athletes to compete from more than 100 nations. There are 28 sports to choose from and the only qualifying criterion is the minimum age. People don’t realize that this minimum age is as young as 25 in some sports so we have a lot of market education to do.

5. What do you hope will be a spin off or legacy of the Games?

More Kiwis participating in sport and recreation purely for the love of it!

6. What community or regional event that you’ve attended has been a stand-out in your opinion?

The Dual and Coastal Challenge run by Total Sport are fantastic events. They showcase our natural scenery beautifully, incorporate sustainability angles into every aspect of the event, and provide options for people of all ages and abilities to get involved. I also love the Lantern Festival. The event brings together such a variety of cultures and ages, the vibe from the crowds is electric. And best of all, it’s free!

7. Who in the New Zealand events industry, is a star performer and why?

Gone are the days where this question can be answered easily. The New Zealand events industry has such a collection of superstars, some who have been around for decades and are still charging, and some who are fresh on the scene and bring real innovation and flare.

8. If you could have anyone in the world to MC at an event, who would it be?

Lord Sebastian Coe.

9. If you could give anybody starting out in events some advice, what would it be?

Two things: firstly value the skills of project management. Events are projects. Without these skills you will find yourself in strife sooner rather than later. Secondly, relish every moment. We are so fortunate to work in the industry we do, creating magic moments for people to remember for years to come.

10. Why do you think anybody involved in events should join NZAEP?

NZAEP is the centre of our events sector. It supports individuals and companies learning and development as well as networking and connecting. The greater the membership of NZAEP, the greater the strength of our sector!

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Jennah Wootten (CEO of World Masters’ Games 2017)

iNTROduCiNg NEW NZAEP BOARd mEmBERLara Middleditch, Service Director, Mission and Events, NZTE Lara Middleditch has over twenty years’ experience in the major events industry in the UK, New Zealand and the Middle East. Prior to returning to New Zealand at the end of last year, Lara held operational and strategic planning roles at

the London 2012 Olympic Games and the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games which provided good fodder for her Master of Management (Sport Business) studies.

Currently she is Director of the Trade Missions & Events Centre at New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, which supports NZTE’s 39 global

offices delivering over 200 international trade events and missions each year. Lara says the opportunity to join the NZAEP Board presents a chance for her to give back to the industry that has supported a fantastically diverse career and she’s excited about reconnecting with the New Zealand events scene.

Page 7Events Update, April 2015

Crankworx Rotorua Lessons Learnt1. What did you hope to achieve in your first year of running Crankworx Rotorua?

The kind of event that doesn’t just put New Zealand or Rotorua on the map, but shows that we are one of the world-leading places for mountain biking and entertainment.

2. What have been some of the highlights for running the event in your hometown?

The amazing community we have here and the way they got involved. I undertake work all over New Zealand but because of the unique biculturalism we have in Rotorua, when the feeling ends up being felt not just by team members, but by all those involved.

3. How hard was it to engage local/regional/national suppliers and sponsors given they might not have heard of the event?

The whole event has been a massive education process to teach the New Zealand public, including sponsors and suppliers; what a Crankworx festival means. It is easy to think that it is just a series of mountain bike races but the reality is much different. It is about the visuals, the sounds, the food and generally the atmosphere. It’s about engaging Joe Public with pro athletes in environments where they can ride, hang, eat and party together. It was definitely a hard road trying to show people that this is not your typical sporting event.

4. What inevitable comparisons and ratings have come out about Rotorua versus Crankworx Whistler and Les Alpes?

Whistler and L2A are very similar in that they are almost solely tourist resorts and have very little else there. They are ski resorts in winter and bike parks in summer. Rotorua couldn’t be more different with a massive variation of economic income and a huge local population. This is one of the things that people liked about Rotorua, meeting real locals. In the words of the CEO of Whistler Blackcomb, “People have said for a first year event, this has been amazing. I can tell you for a fifth year event this has been outstanding”. We have achieved in seven months what has taken L2A three years to get to.

5. Given this is Year One, what have been your biggest learnings to make 2016 and 2017 even better?

We had an amazing crew and interestingly when we look back, the level of experience for running international events wasn’t very much at all. What we had was a team of people who know how to make things work, which is a very unique New Zealander attitude. Job titles almost become a waste of time because the people in the team see a job and do it, even if it meant staying to the early hours of the morning and it had nothing to do with their job title. The biggest learning I can take from this is that I can have huge faith in the team and not need to micro manage anyone from our crew.

6. How did you approach the Health and Safety aspect given some inevitable law changes for 2016’s event?

Our normal business (Multi Day Adventures) has always

Event Director, Tak Mutu

Photo: Clint Trahan – Crankworx Rotorua The Crankworx Rotorua Pump Track Challenge presented by Rockshox drew a massive crowd and a stacked world class line-up of athletes

Photo: Chester Boyes – Crankworx Rotorua The Crankworx Rotorua Slopestyle had the crowd going wild on a course that was uniquely NZ with Te Puia carvings.

been ahead of the game when it comes to health and safety. We have worked tirelessly with Worksafe, Peak Safety Management and Skyline Rotorua to ensure that we had a robust plan. Personally, I think the law changes are terrible and need everyone in the industry to stand up and say something against them. They are the one of the biggest steps backwards that New Zealand has made in a long time.

7. What did you value most in your team, including stakeholders and contractors, which helped with the success of the event?

The ability of each individual to take the bull by the horns and make everything work. Individuals working with a hive mentality were an absolute asset and a huge part of the success of the event.

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Page 8Events Update, April 2015

High Praise for NZ as World Cup Co-hosts

Craft Brewing Capital Title under Threat

New Zealand’s performance as co-hosts of the World Cup has received high praise from cricket’s international body.

The final game in New Zealand was a thrilling semifinal victory over South Africa at Eden Park… …”New Zealand has been a great host to the 14 teams and the seven host cities have come alive with the colour and vibrancy that makes this tournament so special,” International Cricket Council chief executive David Richardson said.

“The fans have been amazing and your seven venues have also given the World Cup its most vital ingredient for success - great pitches that have enabled the best players in the world to showcase their skills to fans here and around the world.”

Former South African wicketkeeper Richardson also praised the work of more than 2000 volunteers during the cup for their “special contribution” to the cup’s success.

New Zealand’s World Cup boss Therese Walsh is delighted at the way the event captured the nation. “The ICC has just given us huge gold star,” she said.

“Operationally we haven’t had a major, or significant, glitch, which you’re always at risk of when running something this big on a global stage.”

Walsh said in terms of crowd attendances, New Zealand had drawn about 325,000 spectators, up towards 80 per cent capacity across all 23 games.

Walsh said given the ticketing and attendance numbers, “we are happy that we have certainly protected, but probably enhanced, New Zealand’s major events reputation. The Rugby World Cup [in 2011] was one thing, but we are not a one trick pony and we can keep knocking them out of the park.”…

Around 40,000-50,000 visitors are understood to have come to New Zealand specifically for the Cup. The Wellington weekend, for example, when New Zealand played England is thought to have had a $10 million direct economic impact.

SOURCE High Praise for New Zealand as World Cup co-Hosts (26 March 2015). NZ Herald

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Proposed radical bans on alcohol advertising could have a big impact in Nelson, with even its promotion as the craft brewing capital under threat.

Brewing industry leaders say if “extreme” recommendations from a government forum were adopted, McCashin’s Brewery would be banned from hosting its 5km fun run series, the Great Taste Trail could no longer include breweries and wineries, the MarchFest beer festival would not be able to be promoted widely and the Sprig & Fern would be banned from having a van with its brand on the side.

Emma McCashin, spokesperson for the Nelson Craft Brewing Capital of New Zealand group, said Nelson Tasman Tourism would also be banned from promoting the region widely as the craft brewing capital.

“The Mussel Inn would need to review its family friendly music concerts; and the many bowls, golf and fishing clubs that receive sponsorship support would no longer be allowed to receive it,” she said.

Brewers in the Nelson region are concerned after the Health Promotion Agency and the Ministry of Health met them and other interested parties this month to discuss the recommendations.

They are alarmed at a report on alcohol advertising and sponsorship by a ministerial forum which made 14 recommendations to Justice Minister Amy Adams and

Associate Health Minister Peter Dunne last December…

Adams said after the release of the forum’s recommendations that an understanding of their full effect was needed before they were considered.

“These are complex issues, and a thorough quantification of the implications of the proposals is critical. Accordingly, ministers have asked officials to undertake further work and provide further information,” said Adams.

She said the forum should provide more information after further investigation by mid-2015.

McCashin said event organisers from MarchFest, the Arts Festival, Nelson Tasman Tourism and sporting groups attended the meeting to express their concern.

MarchFest organiser, Mic Dover told the representatives if only 10 per cent of people attending the popular annual event could be under the age of 18, it would ruin the family-friendly feel and would put more focus on alcohol.

“MarchFest is in its ninth year, it’s well established. I wouldn’t know how to say to 3000 people you can’t bring your families,” said Dover.

To continue reading this article, click here.

SOURCE Craft Brewing Capital Title Under Threat (27 March 2015). Nelson Mail

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Source: Excerpts from NZ Herald, 26 March 2015 Source: Nelson Mail, 27 March 2015

Photo / Michael Craig

Page 9Events Update, April 2015

New Style of Event Catering

Celebrating Neighbours day Aotearoa

Taking the style and flavour of Auckland’s ‘food street’ - Federal Street - to big events is the catch-cry of a heavyweight new player in event and corporate catering.

The Kitchen - or to give it its full title, The Kitchen c/o SkyCity - has just re-branded itself (it used to be Sky City Catering & Events) and is seeking to change the face of event-based catering in Auckland. It aims to do so through two main elements - specialising in fresh, local produce and using the expertise and flavour of SkyCity’s Federal Street restaurants.

Federal Street has become an Auckland byword for good food with a bit of fun and Gillian Officer, director of sales for SkyCity’s conventions and out-catering, says The Kitchen’s produce and service leans heavily on the expertise of Federal St eateries like Masu by Nic Watt, Belotta and The Sugar Club by Peter Gordon, The Grill by Sean Connolly and more.

In partnership with Tennis Auckland, The Kitchen ran the complete range of food and beverage outlets and options at the ASB & Heineken Open, from The Moet Lounge to The Bach and Baseline, the area behind the courts where food, bars, seating and a big screen TV gave fans alternatives to being courtside.

They produced 4,500 Wagyu beef burgers from The Grill by Sean Connolly, 4,000 gyoza (dumplings) from Masu by Nic Watt and 1,800 kg of short ribs to corporate boxes.

The Kitchen fare at the Heineken Open demonstrated the company’s approach. Sports fans often complain about tired food obviously kept in storage at big sporting events, served by staff overwhelmed with the rush - like that experienced at tennis tournaments in between matches, when patrons head for refreshments en masse…

“We are translating the success of Federal St to key Auckland events. We are

Rosie Macleod was one of many firing up the barbecue recently to celebrate good neighbours.

The long-time Tawa resident took part in Neighbours Day Aotearoa, a nationwide series of events to promote neighbourliness.

First run in Auckland in 2009, the event turned national in 2011. This year, 1500 events were planned up and down New Zealand.

“I think the neighbourhood barbecue is really effective in getting people out of their houses and meeting everyone,” she says.

When Macleod, who is in a wheelchair, first moved to Tawa 32 years ago she was afraid to leave the house. Making friends with her neighbours boosted her confidence.

“It’s taken a long time to build those relationships and to feel safe to go outside. Now, it is nothing to me,” she says. “I feel very secure in my home now.”

When the Seddon earthquakes struck in July 2013, she was at home by herself. Her neighbour called her straight away to check she was safe.

That same sense of security helped Macleod through a

storm later the same year, which cut power to her home.

Macleod has been working with the Wellington City Council to encourage others to connect.

Council neighbourhood development co-ordinator Angela Rampton says Macleod’s input has been invaluable.

On Macleod’s suggestion, the council produced cards to be handed out at Neighbours Day Aotearoa events so people can share contact details.

“Hopefully, other people can be lucky enough to have the

amazing support Rosie has been able to have from her neighbours,” Rampton says.

Neighbours Day Aotearoa is celebrated annually, giving people a chance to meet those they live closest to.

Neighbours are encouraged to swap contact details, meet in someone’s house for coffee and a chat, have a barbecue, share garden produce, or whatever else they wish to do to promote neighbourliness.

SOURCE Celebrating Neighbours Day Aotearoa (27 March 2015). DomPost

Source: Excerpt from The New Zealand Herald, 19 March 2015

Photo / SkyCity

bringing that style of those restaurants to our catering - it’s like bringing them in a unique and special way to big events.

“Our clients really like it; it’s on trend and it’s a cool thing for them to have a restaurant name and style at their event.”

The Kitchen c/o SkyCity has 40 permanent chefs who can operate from their home kitchens or on site and up to 300 people to choose from “front of house”, looking after service and the inevitable pressures like the between-matches rush at the tennis.

Federal St restauranteurs like Nic Watt, Peter Gordon and Sean Connolly help design the pop-up menus for these big events, like the Auckland Cup Week at Ellerslie racecourse and the Volvo Ocean Race stopover in Auckland - just two of the big events this re-branded company has catered recently.

To continue reading the full article, follow this link.

SOURCE New Style of Event Catering (19 March, 2015). NZ Herald

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Page 10Events Update, April 2015

Cool Fund on Cards for Waikato Regional CouncilA multimillion-dollar initiative aimed at supporting regional projects will make Waikato a cooler place to live, backers say.

Waikato Regional Council is proposing to create a development fund tasked with fostering “regionally significant” projects.

The proposal has divided regional councillors with some arguing that it could lead to council money being funnelled into non-core activities. But community leaders have embraced the idea, saying a regional development fund could help Waikato become more prosperous and vibrant.

Regional councillor Lois Livingston, a driving force behind the proposal, said Waikato was one of the few regions which didn’t have a development fund tasked with supporting regional projects. “As a region we have some of the worst socio-economic statistics in the country and there’s no doubt we are slipping behind,” Livingston said.

Waikato struggled to attract its fair share of Government funding and a regional development fund would help address that. “Tourism is something the development fund could encourage. We know that cycle ways, such as the Hauraki Rail Trail and the river trails, are a great money earner for the Waikato,” Livingston said.

Regional development funds established by other councils have been used to finance waterside developments, innovation centres, events and festivals……The development fund could help the region secure Government funding and foster partnerships across the region. Local government support for regional projects was often provided ad-hoc because there was no comprehensive framework and criteria for making funding decisions…

…Michele Connell, general manager of Balloons over Waikato, supported the idea of a regional development fund, saying it

Source: Excerpt from Waikato Times, 20 March 2015

Photo / Mike Scott

was increasingly difficult to access funding for festivals or events. The event costs $850,000 to stage each year and an economic impact survey showed the balloon festival contributed $6.8 million to Hamilton’s economy.

“The regional council already support the event through the provision of free park and rides which we’re really grateful for but we’d welcome the opportunity for a new funding stream to open,” Connell said. “We know we bring in a huge number of outside visitors to the region which obviously has a flow-on effect with people visiting the other things Hamilton has to offer.”

Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival chairwoman Jeanette Tyrrell said the festival would apply to the development fund if it met the necessary criteria but had no expectations of any handouts. “But we would certainly have no expectation of getting any handouts as I imagine, and hope, the bar for funding would be quite high and rightly so.”

To continue reading the full article, follow this link.

SOURCE Cool Fund on Cards for Waikato Regional Council (20 March 2015). Waikato Times

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Linked in NZAEP group

Over 180 members have already signed up to the Linked In exclusive NZAEP Group. Visit www.linkedin.com/groups/nzaep-6934807 to get involved.●

Need Volunteers for your Event?

volunteernet.org.nz

Page 11Events Update, April 2015

Bay ‘Nicely Poised to Host Future Business’

Omokoroa to Honour Anzacs

An eventing giant from Australia says Hawke’s Bay is more than a, “one-trick pony”. Equine Productions managing director, Rod Lockwood and Kevin Hansen, of Event Pro, the company behind New Zealand’s Farmlands Horse of the Year (HOY) Show, are looking at new ways to boost the region and their business.

“We have done some of the biggest events in the country in Australia, we have done world championships for cycling, for triathlons, even world champs for hot air ballooning - it’s really diverse,” Mr Lockwood told Hawke’s Bay Today from HOY this week. With a crowded market across the ditch, it seemed logical to cast the net wider and Hawke’s Bay was a hot contender having already proved its worth as a host. “The NZ economy is good.

It grew more than Australia did last year, it’s a lovely environment, it’s a clean environment, it’s got great food, great scenery and the dollar is great - it’s cheap to come here.” During a meeting with Napier Mayor Bill Dalton, Mr Lockwood and Mr Hansen looked at the possibilities and talked through ways they could work with Napier City Council in future. “It’s not a one-trick pony, Hawke’s Bay is a fantastic destination what [Mr Dalton] was saying is they are passionate about events as a major economy driver - the discussion was this, ‘what’s available? It’s not horses, what else can we do?’,” he added. Mr Dalton saw it as a simple formula to keep the region lively while giving local businesses a big boost. Based in Melbourne, the event capital of Australia, Equine Productions was

Bright red poppies, decorated white crosses and Anzac biscuits will overtake Omokoroa on April 25 as the peninsula commemorates Anzac Day for the first time. Local trio Heather Reynolds, Alison Badger and Liz Farrell are organising the peninsula’s first Anzac commemoration – and a variety of events will be on offer.

But many tasks require residents to get busy now, with biscuits to be made, crosses to be decorated and poppies to be knitted, crocheted or felted.

“We thought that with the peninsula’s population growing, it seemed timely to have something local to commemorate Anzac Day –

especially with 2015 marking 100 years since the Great War,” says Alison.

“WW100 is obviously something that will be a big event in New Zealand. We wanted to celebrate the principles the ANZACs fought for – family and your mates, home and hearth, the Kiwi way of life and freedom of speech – the kind of things we take for granted today.”

On April 25 the Omokoroa Peninsula events start 6am at Crapp Reserve with a dawn service – aptly named Poppies on the Point.

The women have linked in with the New Zealand 5000 Poppies Project, which sees the red flowers created nationwide

as a visual tribute to WWI’s NZ servicemen and women.

“So you knit, crochet, felt and use any other way of creating a poppy; then they’ll be made into an art installation in Christchurch. We’ve pledged to make 100 poppies for that – we’re still making them – and the rest we’ll use for our dawn service.”

…The Omokoroa Community Board has pledged their support to the project, granting $1000 as a contingency for the events, but the aim is for everything to be cost-neutral. So far local businesses, community groups and individuals have helped build crosses, buy wool and donate paint etc.

“The grant is an insurance back-up but we hope people will help out and we don’t have to use the grant. Anything people can do – either knit poppies, bake biscuits or decorate white crosses – they are still welcome to get involved.”

And it was Heather, who came up with the idea for the peninsula to show their Anzac spirit.

“The thought is we’ll do something this year and if it’s well supported it could become an annual thing.”

SOURCE Omokoroa to Honour Anzacs (21 March, 2015). sunlive

Source: Hawke’s Bay Today, 21 March 2015

Source: Excerpt from sunmedia, 25 March 2015

Photo/Hawke’s Bay Today

well-connected and perfectly poised to expand. “I would be absolutely delighted if we could use some of those connections, it is a totally open playing field, but he has huge experience in promoting cycling events and triathlons,” Mr Dalton said. “It’s really positive, one of the things that we are doing to turn this region around is looking at what we can do to bring events, not events that are just one day but that last for days. HOY has the

biggest economic impact on Hawke’s Bay because it runs over six days.” The effects were not only felt in Hastings, where the show was based but Napier where hotels and motels were booked to capacity, and people went to shop and spend their money.

SOURCE Bay ‘Nicely Poised to Host Future Business’ (21 March, 2015). Hawke’s Bay Today

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Page 12Events Update, April 2015

Wineries Report Record Tourist Season

Cricket World Cup diverts Attention From grapeRide

The long and mainly sun-blessed Hawke’s Bay summer has seen winemakers smiling at the prospect of another fine vintage, and winery staff in general celebrating a hugely successful tourist-driven season.

At Clearview Winery in Te Awanga the numbers of guests who called to wine and dine were, “record breaking”, function, events and restaurant manager Kristy Paddick said.

“It’s been absolutely pumping. We had the full sign out in the driveway by about 10am most days over the holiday period. It

had been the busiest season on record for entertaining diners,” she said.

Among the visitors were a growing number of overseas guests, including couples, along with family and friends, from Norway, Australia and even Iceland who had chosen the Bay, and Clearview, as the venue for their wedding.

Wedding events were up, with several wineries reporting they were booked out during summer weekends. There had also been an increase in the number of visitors arriving on cruise ships who chose to enjoy a Hawke’s Bay wine

experience by taking a bus tour….

Mission Estate Winery chief executive officer, Peter Holley described the summer season as “absolutely fabulous” and new visitor heights had been reached.

“We have seen a record number of patrons enjoying both our cellar door and restaurant facilities,” Mr Holley said.

The only offset to the lift in visitor numbers had been the postponement of the 2015 Mission Concert, which Mr Holley said was “a work in progress”.

Wineries across the region had also become part of the national culinary tour schedule of events.

Celebrity chef, chanteuse and bon vivant Peta Matthias incorporated Clearview Estate as part of her New Zealand culinary tour. She arrived with guests from Oregon in the United States for a wining and dining tour last month.

SOURCE Wineries Report Record Tourist Season (24 March, 2015). Hawke’s Bay Today

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The hugely popular Forrest GrapeRide in Marlborough did not sell out for the first time in its history, and organisers have blamed the Cricket World Cup. However, motels in Blenheim were still booked to capacity.

GrapeRide organiser, Pete Halligan, put the lower numbers down to the World Cup and the expectation that New Zealand would make the final in Australia.

“The demographic that ride the GrapeRide also go to these sorts of events,” Halligan said. “The day New Zealand beat Australia [early in the world cup] we had 12

withdrawals alone, they said they couldn’t ride because they wanted to go to Australia for the final.”

There were about 200 spots available for the 101 kilometre course, as well as about 150 for the 42km course. However, Halligan still expected well over 2000 riders to turn out.

The event was limited to 2,500 riders, with over 90 per cent coming from outside of the Marlborough region, Halligan said.

Marlborough Motel Association president, Noel Noble said all of the Blenheim motels on his database were

full on the event weekend. The association is made up of 26 motels.

This would be the first time in the GrapeRide’s 11 year history that it hadn’t sold out. As a result, entries for both the main and short course would be taken on the day, with a $20 surcharge, Halligan said.

Organisers had also cut back on the long distance element this year and had not offered the five lap “ultimate” category, but kept the two lap “magnum”. Just over 100 riders had entered the 202km race.

Last year, a one-off 10 lap “mammoth” category was held for the 10th anniversary, and plans are in place for a 15 lap race on the 15th anniversary in 2019.

“We decided to take a break [from the five lap category] and have a think about how to do it differently. The long distance event is difficult to manage because you need to keep track of each of the riders. It’s very resource-heavy.”

SOURCE Crickiet World Cup Diverts Attention from GrapeRide (24 March 2015). Marlborough Express

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Source: Hawke’s Bay Today, 24 March 2015

Source: Excerpt from The Marlborough Express, 24 March 2015

Photo / GrapeRide

Page 13Events Update, April 2015

inverca.st Website Links Event Planners with PerformersA unique website has been launched to ease the headache of event planning, making Southland centric performers just a click away.

Entertainment bookings website inverca.st was launched as a user-friendly solution to finding performers for events in Southland.

Gillies Creative managing director, Jade Gillies said the idea for the website had been brewing in his mind for about six years.

“I’m an events manager and I’ve had frustrating times when it comes to finding entertainment locally, especially up and coming entertainment,” Gillies said. “If I’ve had issues finding performers, then lots of other people must be in the same boat.”

Creative director Liv McBride, who is also one half of Invercargill musical duo Into the East, said the website

was an affordable tool for performers.

“It’s not just about visibility for performers, but also about giving new performers a great platform to put out to booking agents on a national level,” McBride said.

There is no charge to entertainers on the website and the booking fee is capped at $50. The website aims to showcase Southland talent, but will not be limited to musical entertainers.

“We want to include celebrants, children’s performers, MCs, guest speakers and we even have a flame thrower,” Gillies said.

Coming from an entertainment background has given McBride a unique insight in to how the website should function.

“I’m no longer an entertainer for hire, but both Jade [Gillies] and I have been able to show things from our point of view which

Source: Southland Times, 25 March 2015

Photo / Robyn Edie/Fairfax

has been hugely valuable,” McBride said.

Inverca.st is the only region-based entertainment booking website in New Zealand, and acts on the site can be booked for anywhere in the country.

“It’s about professionalism and giving local people the chance to promote themselves - something they don’t usually have the resources to do. Inverca.st is pitched at Joe public. It’s for weddings and 21sts and any occasion normal people have,” Gillies said.

The 30 acts on the site were offered staged photo shoots to make the process as easy as possible for the performers.

For McBride, Inverca.st proves how talented Southlanders really are.

“We have amazing talent down here, and Inverca.st is about giving performers the language to say we are worth it,” she said.

SOURCE Inverca.st Website Links Event Planners with Performers (25 March 2015). Southland Times

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iNTROduCiNg NEW NZAEP BOARd mEmBER As Events Manager for Events & Venues Rotorua, a business unit of Rotorua Lakes Council, Martin is responsible for delivering on goals and objectives of the Rotorua Events Strategy. The goals of the strategy are to create economic impact, showcase Rotorua and to engage with the community. This means he works closely with all organisers of events.

Martin moved to Rotorua from the UK in 2003. With a background in engineering

he chose to follow his passion for events in 2007, joining the Council as an Event Coordinator. He moved into his current role in 2009.

During his watch, he has seen Rotorua endorsed by the International Festival and Events Association in 2013 for the way in which it supports events and both the World Rafting Champs and Crankworx MTB awarded funding from New Zealand Major Events. A sign, he believes, that there is growing confidence in

Rotorua as a major events host.

The Events & Venues team also have responsibility for some of the major venues in the city including the International Stadium and Energy Events Centre.

‘Working on the 2011 Rugby World Cup in Rotorua,’ said Martin, ‘has definitely been the highlight of my events career to date!’ He is very enthusiastic about joining the NZAEP Board and will play a big role in engaging the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions.

Martin CroftEvents Manager, Events & Venues, Rotorua