National List MP based in West Coast Tasman
Media statement
11th March 2016
Tourism growing in the West Coast
Tourism in New Zealand has reached a new record and the West Coast is growing at an impressive rate.
“The West Coast and Tasman regions are becoming increasingly popular as the New Year destination of choice for many
holiday makers, domestically and from abroad.
“I am delighted with the 5.7 per cent increase in guest nights on the West Coast compared to January 2015”
"This consistent growth trend in West Coast accommodation use is a credit to the region’s hardworking tourism industry
which continues to attract visitors from all over the world to our beautiful part of the country.
“The West Coast and Tasman regions have diverse economies, so it is great to see the tourism and hospitality sectors
playing a lead role in our regional growth,” says Mrs Pugh.
Guest nights for January 2016 are the highest in the 20 year history of the survey. Across the South Island guest nights
are up by 9.9 per cent.
“Tourism is a big part of our diverse economy, directly contributing $10.6 billion or almost 5 per cent to GDP. Over
half of international tourism expenditure is spent outside the three major cities.
“Our well-deserved reputation as a premiere destination is supported by the Government’s commitment to growing the
tourism sector.
“Since 2008, we’ve invested over $700 million in tourism and tourism promotion, an unprecedented amount. These January
results show it is paying off,” says Mrs Pugh.
ENDS