The FIFA Women’s World Cup held this year has been deemed a remarkable success, surpassing expectations and leaving a lasting impact on both New Zealand’s economy and societal landscape. According to a comprehensive impact evaluation report by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), the tournament not only exceeded economic projections but also witnessed substantial engagement from the local populace.
Major Events Manager, Kylie Hawker-Green, expressed her satisfaction, stating that the event outperformed initial forecasts, contributing a substantial $109.5 million to New Zealand’s economy. She emphasized the extensive viewership, with almost 60 percent of New Zealanders tuning in to watch matches either on TV or online.
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The in-person attendance exceeded predictions as well, with a total of 740,000 tickets issued, far surpassing the anticipated 500,000 attendees. Notably, Auckland’s Eden Park stadium accounted for nearly half of the ticket sales. International attendance was robust, with 27,000 visitors specifically traveling to New Zealand for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, while an additional 5,000 tourists attended without a specific focus on the tournament.
FIFA Women’s World Cup Economic Impact
The economic impact extended to the hospitality and accommodation sectors, with visiting football fans contributing significantly to a combined 312,008 nights spent in hotels across Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, and Dunedin during July and August.
Despite early concerns due to the global pandemic, the event’s success was a welcome surprise. Hawker-Green acknowledged the potential challenges but highlighted the net economic benefit of $109.5 million at a crucial time for the country’s economy.
Auckland emerged as a key beneficiary, with Tātaki Auckland Unlimited reporting a substantial injection of $87 million in GDP into the region. CEO Nick Hill emphasized that the event not only showcased Auckland’s vibrancy but also generated considerable economic, social, and cultural benefits.
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For every dollar invested in the event, the New Zealand economy saw a commendable return of $1.34, with Auckland closely following at $1.32 for every dollar spent. The benefits extended beyond immediate economic gains, as the World Cup left a lasting legacy in Auckland, with over $18 million invested in upgrading lighting, pitches, and facilities that will continue to benefit the community for years to come.
Hawker-Green also highlighted the positive impact on women’s sport, citing a notable 29 percent increase in viewership since July 2022. The intentional efforts by the government to boost the visibility and validity of women’s sports were evident in the successful delivery of the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
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The collaborative effort with Australia as co-hosts played a pivotal role in the event’s success. New Zealand secured hosting rights for significant components, including the draw event and the playoff tournament, exceeding expectations for a co-hosting arrangement.
Looking ahead, the positive sentiments are expected to be echoed in Australia’s upcoming report, with Hawker-Green expressing confidence that their findings will align with the success and engagement witnessed in New Zealand.
In summary, the FIFA Women’s World Cup not only exceeded economic expectations but also made a significant impact on the community, leaving behind a lasting legacy and contributing to the growth and recognition of women’s sports.
FAQs
Q: What was the economic impact of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 on New Zealand?
A: The tournament surpassed expectations, contributing a remarkable $109.5 million to New Zealand’s economy, showcasing its substantial economic influence.
Q: How did the event boost women’s sports visibility and viewership?
A: The intentional efforts of the government and successful event delivery led to a notable 29% increase in viewership since July 2022, marking a significant stride for women’s sports.
Q: What lasting legacies did the World Cup leave in Auckland?
A: Beyond economic gains, Auckland benefited from over $18 million invested in upgraded lighting, pitches, and facilities, ensuring a lasting legacy that enhances the community for years to come.