Picture Credit: NZ Open
The 104th New Zealand Open has solidified its position as the leading Pro-Am golf championship in the Asia-Pacific, generating substantial economic benefits and international exposure for New Zealand and the Queenstown region.
Record-Breaking Economic Returns
Independent post-event analysis reveals the tournament delivered exceptional financial outcomes, contributing $12.3 million in net economic impact nationally and exceeding $23 million in direct economic benefits to Queenstown. The 2025 event demonstrated remarkable growth, with attendance surging 48% to reach 34,199 spectators at Millbrook Resort, translating to more than 45,000 accommodation nights across the region.
The tournament’s unique Pro-Am structure continues to draw an international field spanning 23 countries, creating a comprehensive golfing celebration that generates widespread economic activity throughout the region and nation.
Government Recognition and Support
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston expressed satisfaction with the event’s outstanding performance, emphasising its dual role in economic stimulation and international brand enhancement.
“The New Zealand Open’s strong economic contribution is tremendously encouraging,” Minister Upston noted. “Our support through the Major Events Fund for such world-class competitions proves worthwhile, as these events not only boost local and national economies but also draw international visitors while enhancing our global standing.”
Unprecedented Media Coverage
The 2025 tournament achieved record-breaking global viewership, reaching at least 7.4 million viewers across more than 90 countries. Television coverage highlighted the stunning Wakatipu Basin landscape and showcased New Zealand’s premier golf destinations to an international audience. This broadcast success was amplified by an unprecedented 130 million social media engagements.
The strongest viewership markets – China, India, North America, and Australia – align perfectly with New Zealand’s strategic tourism targets. This exceptional reach supports the continued expansion of New Zealand’s premium golf tourism sector.
Industry Leadership Praise
John Hart, New Zealand Open Chairman, highlighted the tournament’s dual appeal to both passionate spectators and affluent international visitors as fundamental to its continued success. “We’ve developed an event that drives multi-faceted growth, establishing new standards for New Zealand sporting events while attracting valuable international guests. The enthusiasm from our global players and partners, combined with exceptional local support, has been extraordinary.”
Cho Minn Thant, Asian Tour Commissioner and CEO, recognised the tournament’s elevated status within professional golf. “These outcomes confirm the New Zealand Open’s establishment as the premier Pro-Am competition across the Asia-Pacific. The event masterfully combines the tradition and prestige of a national championship with an exceptional pro-am format that attracts professionals and amateurs from across the region. It’s a tournament the Asian Tour proudly features and our players consistently anticipate.”
Nick Dastey, General Manager of Tournaments for the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia, praised the event’s global impact. “The New Zealand Open establishes exceptional standards for Pro-Am tournaments worldwide, providing outstanding experiences for both professional and amateur participants. We’ve witnessed significant growth in Australian visitors to New Zealand, particularly Queenstown, throughout the year for golf holidays, with the tournament’s spectacular broadcast imagery inspiring travel and positioning New Zealand as an essential golfing destination.”
Long-Term Partnership Commitment
Building on this success, Brian Howie, Millbrook Resort’s Director of Operations, announced the venue’s extended partnership. “We’re delighted to confirm Millbrook Resort’s continued collaboration with Golf New Zealand to host the New Zealand Open through 2032. This long-term agreement demonstrates our confidence in the tournament’s value to both Queenstown and New Zealand.”
Looking Forward
Combining elite athletic competition, international media exposure, and significant economic impact, the New Zealand Open continues its upward trajectory as a premier sporting event.
The 105th New Zealand Open is scheduled for Millbrook Resort in Queenstown from February 26 to March 1, 2026. Additional information is available at nzopen.com.
