International visitor spending grows by 9% YoY, outpacing national average

September 2024 marked the start of Spring with positive results for the Tairāwhiti tourism sector. Domestic visitor card spending declined compared to September 2023, while international visitor spending grew by 9% YoY, outpacing the national average of 5% YoY.

Despite a 6% YoY decrease in international guest nights in commercial accommodations, higher average spending per visitor or more day trips were noted. Spending on ‘Retail F&B’ and ‘F&B Serving’ increased significantly, with a trend towards self-catering, except in Asian markets where ‘F&B Serving’ saw stronger growth. The US market surpassed Australia in visitor spending with a 31% YoY increase, while Australian spending declined by 14% YoY.

Domestic visitor card spending dropped by 10% YoY, but guest nights in commercial accommodations rose by 24% YoY, likely due to a shift from short-term rentals to campgrounds and holiday parks. The average stay length in commercial accommodations decreased from 3 to 2.5 nights per guest but remained 9% higher than last year.

Domestic spending on ‘Retail Fuel’ fell by 13% YoY, while spending on ‘Transport’ surged by 92% YoY, indicating a shift towards public transport.

Employment in tourism-related industries remained steady with a 2% YoY increase, with notable growth in ‘Transport Services’ and ‘Activity & Tour Services’. Year-end data showed a growing preference for the Opotiki District, with significant increases in both domestic and international spending, particularly from visitors in the Bay of Plenty, Waikato, and Tairāwhiti.

Guest nights in Opotiki surged by 98% YoY, while the Gisborne District remained stable. Short-term rental occupancy rates were generally low throughout the month, with a slight increase at the end of September, coinciding with the start of the school holidays.

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