We are in search of a provider capable of transforming Christchurch’s most cherished Festival into a high-performing and reputable Major Event, with a unique cultural identity that is deeply rooted in Christchurch.

The purpose is for any interested parties to review the delivery & curation opportunity for the World Buskers Festival 2025 – 2027, and to submit an EOI if they wish to be considered for an invitation to respond to the RFP.

The World Buskers Festival (WBF) has entertained audiences in Christchurch since 1994. ChristchurchNZ took over the responsibility for the Festival in 2018 as part of its Major Events mandate for Christchurch. It recently commissioned an independent strategic review to establish a 10-year growth strategy alongside a 3-year implementation plan to ensure a sustainable future for the WBF with the aim to grow the impact of the Festival to deliver against the outcomes sought through the city’s Major Events Strategy. The long-term vision is for the Festival to become internationally significant, creating social connection, reflecting, and celebrating New Zealand’s national identity through incorporating Māori and Pasifika arts and culture.

Building national pride and attracting international visitation and recognition for the Festival through its unique curation, alongside financial sustainability. The 10-year growth strategy (and 3-year implementation plan) aims to achieve this through first investing in and growing the profile, legacy, and community outcomes of the Festival.

Please be advised that during the EOI process, no questions, enquires or responses will be facilitated or entered into. ChristchurchNZ may, at its discretion and in adherence to the EOI Terms & Conditions, initiate a closed RFP process starting on the 14 June 2024.