Ryan Bridge: Is funding major events a priority?

There's no doubt punters will like this new major events fund.

$70-million of new and old money.

Some for infrastructure like the cycleway network which needs an upgrade.

$10-million for regional tourism.

Chris Lynch: International visitor spending increases as tourism rebounds

Spending by international visitors in New Zealand rose by more than nine per cent over the past year, according to new government data.

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said the increase reflects the sector’s vital role in growing New Zealand’s economy.