The Barfoot & Thompson ITU World Triathlon Grand Final exceeded targets in the economic returns to Auckland and New Zealand, as detailed in an independent report presented to Triathlon New Zealand and the Local Organising Committee (LOC).
The event itself was praised by the International Triathlon Union, with record numbers of participants, a smooth delivery of safe events in front of large and appreciative crowds live at the venue and watching worldwide on television; the ITU lauded the event as one of the best World Championships ever hosted.
The event attracted a record 5,208 participants and a global audience estimated by the ITU to be in the millions, with those competing and watching live on course endorsing the event as being of 'world class standard' in a post event survey.
Event CEO Dave Beeche says the report confirms the economic value of such an event to the city and the country.
"From an event delivery point of view things went extremely well towards delivering our goal of the best world champs ever, thanks in no small part to the cooperative approach of key stakeholders and Triathlon New Zealand.
"To exceed our forecasts and targets from an economic point of view is also extremely rewarding and did not occur by accident. It was always our aim to maximise the returns to Auckland and New Zealand with a high level of engagement with our participants and in particular the international visitors. It is through the combined efforts of the LOC and agencies such as ATEED and New Zealand Major Events that we have been so successful."
ATEED General Manager Destination (Acting), Jennah Wootten congratulated the local organising committee on the successful management and delivery of the Barfoot & Thompson World Triathlon Grand Final Auckland.
"This is an excellent result and return on investment for Auckland and testament to the combined effort that an event of this scale requires not only from the event itself but also from businesses, residents and regional agencies," Ms Wootten said.
Economic Impact report findings reveal that the Barfoot & Thompson World Triathlon Grand Final Auckland 2012 generated $7.41 million into the Auckland economy.
"The number of international and domestic visitors exceeded our expectations, with 5.6 nights as the average length of stay (in Auckland), visitors had plenty of time to experience what Auckland has to offer," said Ms Wootten.
The event was presented under the umbrella of Triathlon New Zealand, with CEO Craig Waugh pleased the initial forecasting has proven accurate.
"When Tri NZ bid for this event we undertook robust feasibility work to ensure that we could deliver a return to the community, both financially and through inspiring people to participate, both of which we have achieved. It is pleasing that this work has proven effective and we can stand tall," said Mr Waugh.
"That process centred on real and accurate economic goals and predictions around a successful event and subsequent legacy planning which was achieved with the ITU World Series four year contract. Return on investment is critical when planning and event of this nature and when requesting funding support, I'm pleased we have exceeded expectations."
New Zealand Major Events Manager Kylie Archer said she is delighted with the outcomes from the event.
"With the event generating $12.48 million of GDP for the New Zealand economy and 57,872 visitor nights, it demonstrates the significant benefits that can be derived from events. Government is pleased to have provided the $850,000 investment through the Major Events Development Fund and acknowledges the efforts of all those involved in delivering the event and securing these outcomes." Ms Archer said.
Highlights in the report include:
- The event attracted 5,318 visitors to NZ, and 10,004 visitors to Auckland
- Average stay in New Zealand for international visitors was 11 nights, indicating that many travelled more widely after the event. The total number of visitor nights was 57,872.
- Average stay in Auckland for international visitors was 5.6 nights. Total number of visitor nights in Auckland was 55,592.
- Generated $12.48 million GDP for NZ
- Generated $7.4 million GDP for Auckland (forecast was $6.9 million)
- Return on national investment was 307%.
