Govt pledges $100k for taekwon-do comp

The Government is kicking $100,000 towards New Zealand's hosting of the taekwon-do world championships in March 2011.

Economic Development Minister Gerry Brownlee said the money came out of the Major Events Development Fund to support an international marketing programme and to use the event to create economic and other benefits.

"Taekwon-do is a sport with a worldwide following of 180 million people, and is a big part of many New Zealand families and communities," Mr Brownlee said.

"This will be the first time the New Zealand body, International Taekwon-Do, has hosted the ITF taekwon-do world championships - the most significant event on the ITF calendar."

Around 60 countries were expected to send teams - about 2000 competitors, officials and supporters were expected.

International Taekwon-Do will also host the Oceania and New Zealand National Championships this weekend in Wellington.

"Hosting these events will give the organisers an opportunity to trial some systems and processes in preparation for the 2011 world championships."

ITF World Championships 2011 chairman Nick Lourantos welcomed the funding.

- NZPA