Are you going to Pasifika
Send us your photos
A South Auckland MP is calling for an economic impact report into the Pasifika Festival to shore up the future of the event.
Su'a William Sio, Mangere's Labour MP, said that given how much the event added to the Auckland economy, it was unbelievable the festival was left looking for funding after major backers - including government departments - pulled out this year, leaving a $300,000 shortfall.
"I think if Auckland City were to carry out an economic impact assessment of the festival, they'll find there is a strong case [for] the economic activity the festival generates," which could help with leveraging sponsorship from the wider community, Mr Sio said.
Crowds of up to 200,000 attend the annual event, which marks its 17th birthday at Western Springs Park today.
"If 80,000 people turned up and spent $10 each on delectable chop suey, well, that's $800,000," Mr Sio said.
"But I've got no problem saying that it probably easily generates upwards of $2 million. That's money that's going directly into our city."
But Auckland City councillor Greg Moyle said it wasn't as if the council's sponsorship team operated in the dark when it came to selling the festival's economic benefits to potential sponsors, and commissioning a separate report - at a cost of more than $30,000 - would be a waste of money.
Instead, he wanted to see other Auckland councils - including Manukau, where Mr Sio was formerly deputy mayor - contribute to the event. "I find it a bit rich when Manukau spends zero and we're spending the best part of $400,000."
Pasifika 2009 kicks off at 10am and for the first time will feature a sevens rugby competition at Western Springs Stadium.
PASIFIKA:
When: Today 10am to 5pm.
Where: Western Springs Park.
Entry: Free.
Transport: Buses will run from New Lynn, Newmarket (outside 277 Broadway) and Britomart. A free park-and-ride service will run from Unitec in Carrington Rd.
Highlights: Traditional and contemporary music and entertainment. Ten Pacific villages featuring food and crafts.
