Record visitor numbers for Lake Wanaka

Lake Wanaka has recorded its highest ever number of visitor nights for December with increases across both the domestic and international markets.

During December, 63,870 visitors were recorded as staying in Lake Wanaka, an increase of 30.5% from December 2009, the largest proportional increase nationally. This compares with an average national increase of 4.4%. Domestic nights rose by a massive 78.8% based on the same time last year while international guest nights rose by 4.6%.

Lake Wanaka Tourism general manager, James Helmore, said that despite what appeared to be a gloomy outlook, 2009 proved to be a very positive year for Lake Wanaka.

“We entered 2009 with caution and made significant efforts to target the domestic and Australian markets and the figures show that this tactic has worked,” he said. “Overall our guest nights were up 13.1% for 2009 compared to a general New Zealand downtown of 1.4%. Domestic and international numbers increased and both the length of stay and overall occupancy rate rose.

“As with everything, consumers vote with their feet and we’re delighted more Kiwis are enjoying this spectacular piece of their own backyard plus of course it’s great to be able to share Lake Wanaka and everything it has to offer with more overseas visitors.”

For further information, visit www.lakewanaka.co.nz