The fourth Winter Games are underway this weekend in Queenstown.

The biennial event will run over the next 10 days, and includes disciplines such as alpine skiing, snowboarding and curling.

The Government's Major Events Development Fund put $1.5 million dollars into the event this year.

Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce said the games bring economic gain into New Zealand, in part because the athletes train locally in the lead-up to the competition.

Sport and Recreation Minister Jonathan Coleman said it's an international hit.

He said the athletes make great role models for an active lifestyle, encouraging young people to get involved in sport.

The Games will run for the next 10 days, and include events such as alpine skiing, snowboarding and curling.