Accommodation Demand Up Slightly

Accommodation Survey: December 1999

Nights spent by guests in commercial accommodation were 3 per cent higher in December 1999 than in December 1998 according to Statistics New Zealand's latest Accommodation Survey results.

The December rise in guest nights was the second lowest month on same month last year increase since June 1999. A 5 per cent increase in international visitors in December 1999 was the second lowest monthly increase since May 1999. This contributed to the relatively low rise in guest nights.

Regional results for December 1999 were mixed. Guest nights in the Auckland region were 17 per cent higher in December 1999 than in December 1998, but six of the 12 regions recorded lower levels of guest nights over the same period.

Demand for accommodation for the six months ended December 1999 was 8 per cent higher than the same period in 1998. All accommodation types had increases over this period, with backpackers/hostels and hotels having the strongest growth. In December 1999, backpackers/hostels recorded their second highest monthly total for guest nights since the survey began in July 1996.

Comparing the six months ended December 1999 with the same period in 1998, guest nights were higher in all regions. The Auckland region recorded the largest percentage rise in guest nights, followed by Otago; Canterbury; and Taranaki, Manawatu-Wanganui.

Excluding seasonal closures, New Zealand's commercial accommodation capacity has been steadily increasing since the Accommodation Survey began in July 1996. All accommodation types have had rises in capacity.

The Accommodation Survey is funded by regional tourism organisations throughout New Zealand.

Ian Ewing
DEPUTY GOVERNMENT STATISTICIAN

ENDS

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