The world’s eyes are turning to New Zealand as Hamilton, Wellington, and Dunedin gear up for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, predicting a welcome tourism boost locally and nationwide.
Independent assessments estimate that the international tournament is estimated to bring in $NZD 200 million to the country and is expected to welcome 30,000 visitors. promising a financial boom that reaches far beyond the football pitch.
Hamilton kicks off with Zambian Zeal
Team Zambia, base camped in Hamilton, has already made its entrance, welcomed with open arms at Turangawaewae Marae on July 12. Five engaging matches are set to unfold at Hamilton’s stadium, starting on July 22 with Zambia v Japan and wrapping up on August 2 with Argentina v Sweden.
The region of Waikato is expecting a robust wave of tourism, with an estimated 12,500 international visitors. This influx of tourists is predicted to generate a visitor expenditure of $18 million, with $13.7 million from international visitors and $3.9 million from domestic tourists.
Wellington welcomes Swedish and South African teams
Wellington is preparing to host Sweden and South Africa in a series of matches at the Wellington Regional Stadium. The action begins on July 21 with Spain v Costa Rica and climaxes with a much-anticipated quarter-final match August 11.
Wellington, known for its vibrant culture and food scene adding to the sporting excitement with its FIFA Fan Festival that will run throughout the tournament, amplifying the city’s jubilant atmosphere.
Dunedin revels in FIFA firsts
Dunedin is set to join the World Cup celebration, hosting a range of events that emphasise the tournament’s significance. This edition of the World Cup marks a series of firsts – the first women’s tournament with 32 teams, the first hosted in the Southern Hemisphere, and the first co-hosted across two Confederations.
While an accurate economic impact figure will be available post-event, early estimates suggest a windfall of about $10 million. Dunedin is also expecting to attract part of the projected 30,000 visitors coming to New Zealand for the tournament.
Adding to the anticipation, Dunedin will host its own FIFA Fan Festival from July 20-30, promising a series of free, family-friendly events featuring music artists such as Bic Runga, Ladi6, Ladyhawke, and The Topp Twins.
Inside Tourism was unable to include FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 Wellington estimated economic figures at the time of publishing.
