MPs pleased that Tourism outlook still positive
July 9, 2010
Craig Foss MP for Tukituki and Chris Tremain MP for Napier are delighted with the latest Ministry of Tourism forecasts, which show that overall, the sector’s future looks positive.
International visitor numbers are predicted to reach 3.1 million over the next seven years. By 2016 arrivals will likely grow by 27%, which will equate to an additional 669,000 international visitors each year.
“Hawkes Bay is where you will find ‘ Wine Country’. We believe we can be the tourist capital of New Zealand,” says Chris Tremain MP for Napier. “With the airport extension happening this statement will become a reality.”
“Long hot summers and mild sunny winters makes Hawke’s Bay the perfect year round holiday destination,” adds Craig Foss MP for Tukituki.
“We have fabulous regional facilities such as the Hawke’s Bay Museum, the Regional Sports Park, the New Zealand National Aquarium and a Napier Port that accommodates the cruise ships. These all boost out tourism prospects,” Craig adds.
“The numbers show that the tourism sector is highly resilient and has weathered the recession,” Chris Tremain says. “We are one of only a small group of countries whose international arrivals are holding steady and with the Rugby World Cup just around the corner; we can look forward to some good growth. Hawke’s Bay bid for rugby games has paid off already.”
“Government continues to actively support the sector with an additional $30 million to feed into tourism marketing. This follows on from an extra $20 million for Tourism New Zealand last year. Hawke’s Bay has already benefited from this and will continue to do so,” says Craig.
“Given the tight fiscal nature of this year’s budget, this further funding is a huge vote of confidence in New Zealand tourism,” says Chris “These forecasts set out a solid starting point, but I believe that the sector will outperform them.”
By the end of 2010 arrivals should grow by 3.7%. 2011 predictions are for a 6.8% increase in arrivals—a product of both the Rugby World Cup and an improved global economic outlook.
For further information on the latest forecasts and publication please visit:
http://www.tourismresearch.govt.nz/Data–Analysis/Forecasts/2009—2015-Forecasts—Regional/Regional-Forecasts-Key-Data/ <http://www.tourismresearch.govt.nz/Data–Analysis/Forecasts/2009—2015-Forecasts—Regional/Regional-Forecasts-Key-Data/>
