Dunedin Infometrics report points to robust tourism growth

Newly released figures indicate that Dunedin’s tourism spend has performed above New Zealand's national average with a 6.2% increase over the December 2018 year as compared to a 4.3% increase nationally.

The report, from consultants Infometrics, advised that Dunedin commercial accommodation guest nights also rose by 3% over the same period, while New Zealand-wide there was a 2.3% increase.

The Quarterly Economic Monitor painted a similarly positive picture across the board with consumer spending increasing 5% and house sales 3%, paired with a steady 2.7% growth in GDP.

Welcoming the findings, Enterprise Dunedin Director, John Christie stated "as seen recently with the positive growth in net filled jobs across the city, Dunedin’s economy is in good shape and these latest figures reinforce that.

"The robust growth in tourism spend reflects Dunedin’s compelling mix of excellent visitor attractions, high profile events and cruise visitation, which are drawing more high value visitors to the city.

"It’s also encouraging to see a number of new tourism operators entering the market, which is diversifying the offering for visitors and increasing opportunities for local employment in the industry.

"With the recent announcement from Air New Zealand outlining reduced fares to the regions, domestic visitation to Dunedin will become even more accessible as people take advantage of cheaper air travel."

Dunedin Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive, Dougal McGowan added "these results clearly outline the continued period of growth the city has experienced over the last four years and a vibrancy not seen for decades.

"Growth in tourism spend and quest nights, both being above the national average, continues to reinforce that Dunedin an Otago is a place still being discovered and a destination that people are excited about."

With a growing population spurred by strong job prospects and major infrastructure projects about to get underway, Dunedin’s economic growth is on a steady trajectory.

The report can be viewed at ecoprofile.infometrics.co.nz/Dunedin+City/QuarterlyEconomicMonitor

Image: Lanarch Castle, Dunedin