September 2004 IVS Data release
Last updated:
April 2008
Media Statement
17 December 2004
International visitors to New Zealand spent $6.6 billion in the year to September 2004, up 6.2% from the previous year. This is a new record high and reflects the increasing contribution of international tourism to the New Zealand economy. The Australian market has led the growth in visitor spending increasing by 28.3% to $1.4 billion. This expenditure result reflects the very strong growth in Australian arrivals that increased by 23% in the year to September.
“The Australian market performance over this period has been driven by increased capacity and lower prices on trans–Tasman routes. Even though airfare costs are down, Australians are spending more.” said the Ministry of Tourism’s Research Manager Bruce Bassett.
“An additional $400 million was injected into the New Zealand economy over the last 12 months by international visitors. In the September year, visitors from Australia, UK and Japan made the greatest contribution, spending $1.4 billion, $942 and $632 million respectively.”
This spending correlates well with the expenditure forecasts of the Tourism Research Council New Zealand and reinforces that New Zealand is on track towards the forecast international visitor expenditure of $11 billion in 2010.
“Tourism is New Zealand’s largest single export earner and this data indicates that this position will be maintained.”
“International visitors are demanding authentic, quality products and they have money to spend. We need to ensure tourism operators and communities optimise the returns from each visitor during their stay.” Mr Bassett said.
These results are from the International Visitor Survey (IVS) for the year ended September 2004 released today by the Ministry of Tourism.
For further information please visit the Tourism Research Council New Zealand website (www.trcnz.govt.nz).
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