Organisers of national kapa haka event Te Matatini aim to attract at least $6 million to the Christchurch economy.
The city is hosting the biennial competition over four days from tomorrow.
According to Te Matatini Society's three year business plan [2013-2016], at least 7000 spectators each day, and just over 1500 performers will be there, as well as a workforce of about 1500 people.
Executive director Darrin Apanui said the event's predicted economic contribution was a conservative one as it was based on cautious estimates of numbers expected to attend.
Mr Apanui said Te Matatini was accessible for many New Zealanders because it was held in different locations.