Guest nights increase continues in September

Total guest nights in short-term commercial accommodation increased 4 percent in September 2007compared with September 2006, Statistics New Zealand said today.

The trend in total guest nights hasbeen increasing since January 2006, although the increase has been slowing in recent months.In September 2007, guest nights were 5 percent higher in the North Island and 3 percent higher in theSouth Island, compared with September 2006.

Eleven of the 12 regions recorded more guest nights, withthe Auckland region showing the largest increase.

Four of the five accommodation types had more guest nights in September 2007 than in September 2006,with backpackers/hostels recording the largest increase.

For the September 2007 quarter, total guest nights were up 5 percent on the September 2006 quarter.

Ten of the 12 regions recorded more guest nights with the Auckland, Canterbury and Otago regions showing thelargest increases.

Four of the five accommodation types had more guest nights, with hotels and motelsshowing the largest increases