Lions Rugby Tour generates $130 million for New Zealand
Last updated:
April 2008
Media Release
Embargoed until 2.30pm, Wednesday 5th October 2005
Download the full report (PDF 385KB)
More than $130 million in foreign exchange earnings was generated by the DHL NZ Lions Rugby series this year, according to the Economic Impact report released today by The Ministry of Tourism, Tourism Auckland, Auckland City Council and Tourism Dunedin.
Ministry of Tourism General Manager Ray Salter said the Lions Rugby Tour generated broad economic benefits for New Zealand.
"The number of international visitors progressively increased during the series, there was a good regional spread of impact and the increased spending was distributed through a wide range of sectors.
“The series occurred during the winter months, which are usually quieter for our tourism operators. New Zealand received 20,400 extra international visitor arrivals specifically for the DHL NZ Lions Series, staying an additional 430,000 visitor nights.
“The main contingent of visitors came from England (55%), then Ireland (14%) and Wales (10%). Visitors from the UK clearly made a substantial impact. Ten per cent of arrivals for the Lions tour also came from Australia, staying seven days in New Zealand on average.
"Increases in visitor arrivals began prior to the first provincial game held on 4th June 2005. There were notable increases in arrivals prior to each international test against the All Blacks, with two thirds of arrivals coming before the first test in Christchurch on 25th June.
“With 11 rugby matches in the Lions series, held in different New Zealand regions, the impact has been wide spread – and not just in regions where a game was held."
Foreign exchange earnings were spread across a wide range of sectors, $25.2 million on Food & Beverage followed closely by Accommodation ($24.8m) and then Lions match related expenses ($20.1m).
International visitors also spent money on international airfares ($12.5m), domestic travel ($9m), retail shopping ($10.8m) and attractions and entertainment ($10.9m).
“The economic impact of the DHL NZ Lions Rugby series on New Zealand highlights the value major international events can have for New Zealand’s regions and industry. We hope to attract similar events of this nature in future,” Ray Salter said.
For further information contact:
Ray Salter,
General Manager,
Ministry of Tourism
Ph: 027 452 6244
Ministry of Tourism:
www.tourism.govt.nz
www.tourismresearch.govt.nz
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