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New spending data shows tourism continues to play an important role in Napier’s CBD economy, with international visitor spending rising 11.7 per cent in January compared with December and accommodation spending increasing 27.7 per cent month-on-month.
The highest spending day of the month was Saturday, January 24, aligning with Auckland Anniversary weekend. Visitor activity from Wellington also increased during its anniversary period.
The Rose Irish Pub general manager Stephane Tran Truang says January reflected the lift in visitor activity across the city.
“January was an outstanding month for us, with sales up 30 per cent compared with the same period last year,” Stephane says.
“The season has also seen a strong return of backpackers, particularly from France, who play an important role in supporting the region’s seasonal workforce.
“At The Rose we’ve employed several backpackers across the restaurant and housekeeping.
“They contribute not only as employees, but as customers and members of the local community, adding to the vibrancy of the region.”
Stephane says both the Art Deco Masonic Hotel and Expressotel also performed strongly across the summer period, with most guests travelling for leisure and many arriving from overseas.
The Dome owner/operator Áilne Bradley says January also brought a noticeable increase in international guests.
“We had a very busy January, with a strong return of overseas visitors, particularly from Europe and the UK,” Áilne says.
“We’ve also welcomed a number of American guests – some here on holiday, others doing a reconnaissance trip to consider Napier and Hawke’s Bay as a future home.
“Combined with steady domestic travellers, it gives us real confidence that Napier is firmly back on the map and continuing to offer visitors a genuinely warm welcome.”
Napier City Business Inc general manager Pip Thompson says the figures reinforce Napier’s position as a destination city.
“Tourism isn’t a side story for Napier. When visitors are here, staying overnight and spending, it supports accommodation, hospitality and the wider CBD,” Pip says.
Pip says ensuring visitors can easily navigate and access information is key to maximising the benefits of that activity.
“If tourism is contributing at this level, being visitor-ready matters. Clear wayfinding, accessible information and visible visitor services all help turn visitation into real benefit for local businesses.”
