More than 32,000 fans attended the event, including the largest single-day crowd experienced in recent tournament history — a powerful reflection of the event’s growing popularity and reputation.
As measured by independent research agency YouGov, the New Zealand Open generated a total economic impact of $33.9 million of which $12.1m was from international visitors and the remaining from regional visitors. The Queenstown Lakes District region saw more than 40,000 bed nights across the tournament period, further reinforcing the event’s importance to regional tourism and hospitality.
Tournament Chairman John Hart said the results highlighted the continued evolution of the New Zealand Open into a truly world-class sporting and entertainment event.
“The New Zealand Open continues to grow in every sense — from the crowds at Millbrook, and the global broadcast audience, through to the economic and community impact we are able to deliver,” Hart said.
“To achieve these results says a great deal about the strength of the tournament and the support we continue to receive from fans, partners, volunteers and the wider community.”
Hart said the tournament’s ongoing success was a reflection of the collaborative effort behind the event.
“The New Zealand Open has become far more than a golf tournament. It is an event that delivers for tourism, business, community and New Zealand’s international profile, and we’re incredibly proud of what continues to be achieved together.”
Daniel Hillier’s victory earlier this year at New Zealand Open was a moment of genuine national pride, with the Wellington professional becoming the first Kiwi in nine years to lift the Brodie Breeze Trophy. Hillier’s win helped the tournament’s profile reached new heights in 2026 with domestic television audiences across Sky Sport and Sky Open increasing by 23%, while the championship reached a measurable global audience of 4.6 million viewers across more than 100 countries and 38 international markets.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston, who attended the New Zealand Open, is celebrating the success of the 2026 event, highlighting its positive impact on New Zealand’s economy and future tourism opportunities at a time when golf is enjoying a heightened international profile.
“I’m thrilled to hear the New Zealand Open is continuing to deliver for New Zealand, providing a strong boost to the local economy while reaching millions of viewers around the world. Every broadcast hour is an opportunity to showcase our spectacular landscapes, premium visitor experiences and world-class golf courses to potential visitors. The event continues to strengthen New Zealand’s reputation as a leading golf tourism destination and is proving to be a real drawcard on our major events calendar,” said Minister Upston.
Digital engagement continued to surge, with the tournament generating 157 million global social media impressions and growing its social media following by 36% across official channels.
Off the course, the tournament continued to deliver meaningful outcomes for both the environment and local the community. More than 50,000 single-use bottles were eliminated during tournament week, while over 13 tonnes of waste was diverted from landfill through sustainability initiatives implemented across the event.
The New Zealand Open Charitable Trust also made a positive impact, with more than $80,000 raised throughout the tournament and over $50,000 distributed back into local community initiatives.
A key driver behind the tournament’s success remained its volunteer programme, with 551 volunteers from six different countries. The programme achieved a 71% volunteer return rate from 2025.
Hart also acknowledged the role of Millbrook Resort in helping deliver a world-class tournament experience both on and off the course.
“Millbrook Resort continues to be an extraordinary host for the New Zealand Open and an integral part of what makes this tournament so special,” said Hart.
“The quality of the golf course presentation, the stunning backdrop of the resort and wider Queenstown region create a truly world-class environment for players, fans and broadcast audiences alike. Millbrook has helped elevate the New Zealand Open into one of the most unique and recognisable tournaments in world golf.”
The 106th New Zealand Open presented by Millbrook Resort will return to Queenstown between 25–28 February 2027. The tournament is expected to once again attract thousands of fans and visitors to the Queenstown region for one of the country’s premier sporting and entertainment events.
