Len Lye Centre: Economic Impact Assessment 2024–25
The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery | Len Lye Centre (the Centre) is a key part of New Plymouth’s cultural and tourism landscape. Commissioned by the New Plymouth District Council, Govett-Brewster Foundation, and Len Lye Foundation, BERL recently undertook an economic impact assessment of the Centre. The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Centre’s economic, social, and cultural contributions for the 2024–25 year.
In 2024–25, the Centre attracted approximately 79,000 visitors, with nearly one in four coming from outside the New Plymouth District
Non-local visitor spending totalled $10.8 million. When combined with the Centre’s operating costs, the total direct economic impact was $16.4 million. Including indirect and induced effects, the total economic impact reached $24.8 million, with a GDP contribution of $13.7 million and support for 153 full-time equivalent jobs. For every $1 of council rates funding, the Gallery and Centre generated $2.73 in GDP for the district.
The report also highlights the Gallery and Centre’s broader value to the community
Visitor surveys indicate high satisfaction, with a Net Promoter Score of 65. Education programmes reached nearly 3,900 students in 2024–25, and community engagement continued through the Friends of the Gallery and the Govett-Brewster Foundation.
Interviews with local businesses reinforce the Gallery and Centre’s role as an anchor attraction
The presence of the Centre supports surrounding hospitality and accommodation providers, and has contributed to investment in the West End precinct. The Gallery and Centre are frequently included in recommendations for visitors to New Plymouth, alongside other local attractions.
The report identifies opportunities to further enhance the Gallery and Centre’s impact, such as increasing event utilisation and strengthening partnerships with local businesses. It also notes some challenges, including barriers to private hire and underutilisation of certain spaces.
The Centre is both a cultural institution and a contributor to regional economic development. Its economic, social, and cultural impacts are significant, and there are opportunities to build on this foundation in the years ahead.
Read the full report here.
Read the New Plymouth District Council press release.