Visitors Strengthen Case for Long Haul Flights

Media Release
31 May 2011

Wellington’s International Visitors Strengthen Case for Long Haul Flights

Accommodation data released today showing significant growth in Wellington’s international guest nights is further confirmation that the city needs to be pursuing long haul flights according to the Wellington Employers’ Chamber of Commerce.

“Wellington recorded the fastest growth in international guest nights in March 2011 – up 5000 or 5% on the year before. This reflects ongoing and increasing interest from international visitors in Wellington as a destination,” said Chamber Chief Executive Ken Harris.

“A direct air link to Asia is a must for Wellington. It is something the Chamber has been pushing for a long time.

“Having the ability to fly direct to Asia would attract internationally oriented businesses and people to the region and help expand international business. As today’s figures show, it would also capitalise on Wellington’s growing reputation as a tourist destination.

“The data also records Wellington as having a high and growing occupancy rate of 70%. This suggests investment in new international standard accommodation for Wellington is overdue.

“Positively Wellington Tourism, which has been focussing on marketing Wellington overseas can take much of the credit for the increased visitor numbers and should be congratulated,” Mr Harris concluded.

ENDS

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