Wellington City Council events portfolio leader John Morrison says economic benefits from the Rugby Sevens tournament will extend well beyond this weekend.
The event was attended by 31,432 spectators. Hospitality New Zealand expects another 20,000 visitors to the capital.
England beat Kenya 24 - 19 in the final on Saturday night. Sixteen teams took part.
Cr Morrison said the creative costumes and the fine weather produced a good atmosphere. Pictures of the harbour and city with the blue sky and sun is advertising that could not be bought.
He said about $15 million was pumped into the Wellington economy in previous years by the event, the 13th edition since the series first came to Wellington.
Meanwhile, an economic impact study will assess various aspects of this year's tournament.
New Zealand matches general manager Steve Walters said the impact study, which will be done in conjunction with Wellington City Council, will look at what type of people attend the event and how those people spend their money.
Mr Walters said the age of the crowd has come down in recent years.