The tourism industry has weathered the economic downturn well, according to Associate Tourism Minister Jonathan Coleman.A report released today, compiled using government figures, shows that spending by international and domestic tourists increased to $22
The tourism industry has weathered the economic downturn well, according to Associate Tourism Minister Jonathan Coleman.
A report released today, compiled using government figures, shows that spending by international and domestic tourists increased to $22.4 billion for the year ended March 2010.
Spending by international tourists in New Zealand rose 1.6% to $9.5 billion, while domestic expenditure rose 2.5% to $12.9 billion.
“With the Rugby World Cup next year, the sector will grow even further so things are really looking up,” Dr Coleman said in a release today.
The increasing number of Australian arrivals was the major contributor to the growth in international expenditure. Earlier data showed that New Zealand’s international arrivals are expected to increase by 6.8 percent in 2011 to 2.7 million visitors
Other key findings from today’s report show tourism generated $1.7 billion in GST revenue and adds $61 million a day to the New Zealand economy.
Dr Coleman said one reason for today’s “record” results was a $20m boost in funding for Tourism NZ last year, and highlighted the $30m of new spending for the sector announced in this year’s budget.
Ensuring the success of the Rugby World Cup is a short-term priority for the industry while, in the long-term, growing and maintaining New Zealand’s aviation links is considered a key challenge.
