Upward Trend in Guest Nights Continues

Upward Trend in Guest Nights Continues

The underlying trend in total guest nights in short-term commercial accommodation has been increasing since June 1998, according to Statistics New Zealand. Guests spent 2.0 million nights in accommodation during September 2002, 3 percent more than in September 2001.

Seasonally adjusted and trend estimates have been introduced for the five accommodation types.

Hotels, motels, backpackers/hostels and caravan parks/camping grounds have generally all shown growth in the underlying guest night trend over the past 12 months. During the past six months, the guest night trend for hosted accommodation appears to have been decreasing.

Ten of the 12 regions recorded more guest nights in September 2002 than in September 2001, with the Auckland region recording the most significant increase in guest nights, up 9 percent. The Auckland region contributed almost half of the increase in total New Zealand guest nights in September 2002, while the Canterbury region contributed 29 percent.

Brian Pink

Government Statistician

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