Kelvin Davis
Tourism spokesman

10 November 2010 Media Statement

Boost to domestic tourism funding would help accommodation sector

The bad news that total guest nights have decreased is deeply worrying for those in the accommodation sector, says Labour’s Tourism spokesman Kelvin Davis.

“The good news though is that there is a solution right under our noses – that is to increase promotion of domestic tourism so that Kiwis holidaying at home can help those struggling in the accommodation sector.”

Statistics released today show that compared with September 2009, total guest nights went down by 1.2%. Holiday parks, backpackers and motels suffered a drop in guest nights, while hotels had the only increase.

“Holiday parks, backpackers and motels are really feeling the brunt of the recession. While there has been an increase in Vote Tourism, most of it has gone towards promoting New Zealand to international markets, rather than domestically, so the accommodation sectors here are not feeling any benefit.

“It would be good if the AA Tourism Great Kiwi Road Trips domestic tourism campaign, designed to encourage New Zealanders to holiday within the country, could be boosted further to help these sectors.”

The campaign has created 23 unique Kiwi road trips that encourage New Zealanders to holiday at home rather than abroad, said Kelvin Davis.

“Encouraging New Zealanders to get off the beaten track and to experience other parts of the country is an ideal way to spend money within New Zealand and to support our local economy and the accommodation sector.

“Regions such as Northland, Taranaki, Manawatu, Hawke’s Bay and the West Coast have much of interest to visit and experience but have virtually no profile on the national tourism scene. This needs to change.

“We need to encourage New Zealanders to holiday within New Zealand rather than the Gold Coast and Bali.

“Domestic tourism makes up just over half of New Zealand’s tourism spend, but is neglected when it comes to Government support. If holiday parks, backpackers and motels are to survive the recession, the Government must ensure domestic tourism is adequately funded.”

ENDS

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