Occupancy Rates Reach Record High

Occupancy Rates Reach Record High

Occupancy rates in short-term commercial accommodation reached a new high in February 2005, Statistics New Zealand said today. The February 2005 occupancy rate of 69.2 percent, excluding caravan parks/camping grounds, was the highest rate recorded for any month since the survey began in July 1996. Hotels and motels both recorded their highest monthly occupancy rates since the survey began. February is traditionally the peak month for occupancy rates each year.

Total guest nights were 3.2 million in February 2005, a 1 percent increase compared with February 2004. In February 2005, guest nights remained at a similar level in the North Island compared with February 2004, and were up 3 percent in the South Island. The 2004 calendar year was a leap year with the extra day in February 2004 falling on a Sunday.

Eight of the 12 regions recorded more guest nights in February 2005 than in February 2004.

Otago (up 16,000) recorded the largest increase, followed by Taranaki/Manawatu/Wanganui (up 13,000) and Canterbury (up 9,000). Four of the five accommodation types recorded more guest nights in February 2005 than in February 2004, with hotels and backpackers/hostels recording the largest increases.

Ian Ewing

Acting Government Statistician

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