“The West Coast and Tasman regions are becoming increasingly popular as the New Year destination of choice for many holiday makers, domestically and from abroad,” said National list MP Maureen Pugh, who is based in Kumara, between Greymouth and Hokitika.
“I am delighted with the 5.7 percent increase in guest nights on the West Coast compared to January 2015”
“This consistent growth trend in West Coast accommodation use is a credit to the region’s hardworking tourism industry which continues to attract visitors from all over the world to our beautiful part of the country.
“The West Coast and Tasman regions have diverse economies, so it is great to see the tourism and hospitality sectors playing a lead role in our regional growth,” says Mrs Pugh.
Guest nights for January 2016 are the highest in the 20 year history of the survey. Across the South Island guest nights are up by 9.9 per cent.
“Tourism is a big part of our diverse economy, directly contributing $10.6 billion or almost 5 per cent to GDP. Over half of international tourism expenditure is spent outside the three major cities.
“Our well-deserved reputation as a premiere destination is supported by the Government’s commitment to growing the tourism sector.
“Since 2008, we’ve invested over $700 million in tourism and tourism promotion, an unprecedented amount. These January results show it is paying off,” says Mrs Pugh.
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Tiny towns: Little River
Lisa Jansen explores Little River and finds many reasons to linger in this tiny town on the Banks Peninsula
