And the sector is set to become even more important. In the 2002 - 2009 period, international visitor nights are projected to increase by more than 50 per cent. More importantly, international visitor spending will increase by nearly double that rate-over 90 per cent-up to $11.74 billion.

This will affect us all. Most of these visitors aren't just going to get off the plane in Auckland and stay there. They will likely be heading out around the country, and potentially, spending significantly as they go."

Hon Mark Burton: Tourism Minister - New Zealand
Monday, 26 July 2004,
Speech: New Zealand Government
More info on the speech click here

Tourism based real estate showing high growth due to high growth in tourism and most importantly, the need to replace dated accommodation infrastructure.

New Zealand Tourism - Leads the way
Tourism is now New Zealand's largest Industry an earner of foreign exchange, outstripping the dairy industry.
Tourism earns around 10% of the GDP and earns in excess of $6.6 billion per year.

In March 2001, arrivals were 1.85 million, in March 2004, arrivals were 2.2 million an average increase per year of 7%

Tourism Research Council (TRC) forecast the arrivals per year to hit 3.1 million, an increase of 67% against 2001.
International visitors to Dec 2004, grew 11.5% and topped worldwide growth reported by World Tourism Organization (WTO) record increases in numbers come from Australia, UK, China and USA .