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Back-to-back concerts by Pearl Jam and Coldplay have brought a wave of energy to Auckland, driving a surge in visitors that has significantly boosted the city’s hospitality and accommodation businesses.
Over the weekend, Seattle rockers Pearl Jam entertained tens of thousands of fans at two shows at Go Media Stadium as part of the band’s Dark Matter World Tour.
This week, Coldplay are set to play three sold out shows at Eden Park, which are expected to attract more than 130,000 concert-goers.
Auckland hospitality and accommodation providers have enjoyed a busy weekend, and are looking forward to it continuing with big crowds expected at Eden Park.
“There’s always a buzz in the air in Auckland when big concerts are in town, and having five over the space of the week is a huge deal,” says Jamie Freeman, head of upper north operations at Star Hospitality and president of Hospitality New Zealand’s Auckland branch.
“The energy and excitement they create are unmatched, and that buzz translates directly to higher foot traffic and better sales. Anecdotally a lot of our members have said that they’ve been enjoying good numbers of people in the door which is great to hear.”
“Large concerts and major events in Auckland are vital for accommodation operators and the wider tourism sector,” says Troy Clarry, managing director Katalyma Hotels and Hospitality NZ’s accommodation sector chair.
“They drive bookings, fill rooms, and create a vibrant city.
“While we have some concerns for bookings across the rest of the year, we are pleased that accommodation is in high demand this week, with search demand showing close to 100 per cent up until mid November.”
Hospitality NZ supports thousands of hospitality and accommodation businesses of all sizes across the motu, to deliver the world-famous manaakitanga (hospitality) which New Zealand is renowned for.
Hospitality NZ chief executive Steve Armitage says the strong run of concerts demonstrate the importance of events.
“For hospitality businesses up and down the country, events are more than just dates on the calendar. They mean packed bars, bustling cafes and restaurants, and accommodation bookings.
“Many of our members see their best days when major events come to cities and towns across the country, reaping the benefits of the influx of locals and visitors alike.”
New research from Massey University supports this, showing that for every dollar spent on live performance, $3.20 is returned in benefits to the wider community.
“Tourism and events are essential to hospitality’s lifeblood,” says Steve.
“Beyond just visitor numbers, they inject energy and economic vitality into our cities, towns, and regions, supporting jobs and creating memorable experiences for both residents and tourists.
“We will continue to advocate strongly for investment into regional and national events alongside others, including the New Zealand Events Association and Business Events Industry Aotearoa.”
