Record numbers of international and domestic visitors to Auckland have resulted in a record-breaking contribution of $6.5 billion to the local economy.
Total tourism expenditure in Auckland increased by 15 per cent in the year ended March 2015, with international visitors contributing $3.227 billion (up 18 per cent) and domestic visitors $3.268 billion (up 8 per cent).
More people visiting Auckland
Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED) Chief Executive Brett O’Riley says Auckland welcomed more than 2 million international arrivals as well as 4 million domestic guest nights in commercial accommodation between March 2014 and March 2015.
“More people are visiting Auckland than ever before and they’re generally spending and doing more, as is evident in the 13 per cent increase in attraction and activity spend, all contributing in this significant boost to the local economy,” he says.
“These record-breaking results are fantastic for Auckland and are hitting ATEED’s own aspirational targets, and delivery of the goals outlined in the Auckland Visitor Plan. It’s particularly good to see that Auckland is attracting more domestic visitors than any other region in the country helping smooth out seasonal peaks.”
Events a drawcard
Auckland’s massive 2014/15 line-up of events – which included two world cups – pumped more than $85 million into the regional economy based off an investment by ATEED, on behalf of Auckland Council, of $14 million. These events generated more than 426,500 visitor nights, and saw more than 2 million people attend the different major events around the city.
More investment, jobs
Mayor Len Brown says, “This unprecedented year of events, along with regular proactive tourism marketing campaigns, a growing business events sector, record numbers of international students studying in Auckland, and increases in air capacity have all played a significant role in achieving these results.”
“It’s truly been an industry-wide effort and the flow-on effects from the visitor economy can already be seen throughout the city with new developments to support better infrastructure, more investment and most importantly more jobs for the Auckland economy.”
