December 1 2016

Tourism now a billion dollar industry for Northland

Data released today (1 December) shows that tourism expenditure in Northland passed the $1 billion mark for the first time ever as rapid growth rates in international tourism continue to benefit regional economies around the country.

The Monthly Regional Tourism Estimates released today by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment show that tourism spend in Northland was $83 million for October and reached a record $1.019 billion for the year ended October 2016.

Commenting on the data today, Northland Inc CEO Dr David Wilson said it was a significant milestone and showed the huge benefit of tourism to Northland’s economy.

“Northland’s tourism sector has been experiencing strong and constant growth for the past two years and the region ranks sixth in the country in total tourism spend.”

“The total value of tourism is under-realised here in Northland. The visitor sector is a major industry in the regional economy. We are about to enter our peak season, and expect record numbers of visitors this summer. “

Dr Wilson said visitors leave behind huge benefit for businesses throughout Tai Tokerau.

“The challenge for the future is to spread the benefits wider so businesses get better year-round yield, and to ensure the wider region receives the full benefit of visitor expenditure.

ENDS

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