Read Getting Set for an Active Nation - Sport New Zealand

Specific flow-on effects in the economy may be associated with certain events or
developments in recreation and sport. Boatbuilding is an example of a specific
industry that illustrates this market expansion. Jobs increased 20% in 1999 to
6,000 and the workplace could double to 12,000 by 2010 (Collin, 2000). An
economic impact report on the America’s Cup (McDermott Fairgray Group and
Ernst Young, 2000), even when considered critically and conservatively, supports a
strong case for recognition of this sport’s influence. “It can be concluded that a
total impact of $474 million added to regional GDP and $640 million added to
national GDP over the period during which preparations and the regatta took
place” (McDermott Fairgray Group and Ernst Young, October 2000, p viii).
Significant spending came from racing syndicates, superyacht owners and “millions
of spectators” (Orsman and Bingham, 27 October 2000, p A.1.) Of this, Auckland
received $473 million. Resultant from the rise in New Zealand’s yachting profile
has been the planned $80 million superyacht facility at Whangarei with a possible
generation of $70 million per annum from servicing and refits. The report details
direct expenditure that would not have been spent otherwise and indirect spending
that flowed on through the economy.
• Events help to raise national, regional and community profiles by bringing attention
to unique characteristics and attractions and subsequently assist community and
economic development.
• Recreation sites draw tourists for the experience of physical activity which, in turn,
generates expenditure.
• Recreation, parks, sports, outdoor facilities, adventure tourism, national parks and
conservation areas all provide examples of employment.
• Open spaces and parks and reserves as tourist attractions offer an integral
dimension of New Zealand landscapes and a focus of diversity and ecological
sustenance.
Volunteers
• Volunteers provided 77.3% of the total physical leisure labour impact in 1999,
worth $580 million (Business and Economic Research Limited, 2000).
Tourism and National Identity
• Statistics New Zealand estimated that “the international tourism sector … made a
$2.9 billion direct contribution to GDP in 1995” (NZIER, 2000, p.10).
• Almost 4% of inbound tourists have a leisure or sport-related purpose for their
visit, generating $120 million per annum. Some 900,000 international tourists take
part in sport and leisure activities each year (Hillary Commission, 1998).
• New Zealand products and tourism experiences can be profitably associated with
the outdoors and physical activity. The case study of ENZA’s branding by the
Ministerial Taskforce on Sport, Fitness & Leisure January 2001 page 46 of 153