International guest nights fall in July

Total guest nights in short-term commercial accommodation decreased 2 percent in July 2008 comparedwith July 2007, Statistics New Zealand said today.

This decrease was largely due to an 8 percent fall ininternational guest nights, which was partly offset by a 2 percent increase in domestic guest nights. Amongthe regions, Auckland and Otago recorded both the largest decreases in international guest nights and thelargest increases in domestic guest nights.

In July 2008, total guest nights in the North Island fell 4 percent compared with July 2007, while SouthIsland guest nights remained steady.

Eight of the twelve regions had fewer guest nights with Waikato andAuckland showing the largest decreases.

Canterbury and Wellington showed the largest increases.Guest nights decreased in four of the five accommodation types in July 2008 compared with July 2007.

Motels had the largest decrease followed by caravan parks/camping grounds.

Geoff Bascand Government Statistician

See also the Hot Off The Press information release Accommodation Survey: July 2008