Wellington wearing its arts well

Punters attending the first World of Wearable Art Awards in Wellington spent an estimated $8.3 million in the capital according to researchers.

About 27,000 people attended the shows over seven days in September and October, with nearly two-thirds travelling from outside Wellington.

The research, by McDermott Miller for the Wellington City Council, found of the $8.3 million spent, 36 per cent was on retail purchases, 24 per cent on both accommodation, and restaurants and cafes, 11 per cent on business services, 4 per cent on transport and 1 per cent on other attractions.

Of those who saw the show, 64 per cent were attending for the first time, and 78 per cent said they were likely or very likely to see it again next year.

Of the 64 per cent who came from outside Wellington City, 20 per cent were Aucklanders and 19 per cent had come from Canterbury.

Wellington Mayor Kerry Prendergast said the awards were a perfect fit for the city.

"The fact that so many people got to see it for the first time is fantastic," she said.

"It was a visual feast and we look forward to it continuing."

Wearable Arts chief executive Gabrielle Hervey said the report showed the move to Wellington had been successful.

- NZPA