This follows on from steady growth in this market over nine months. It was the highest growth of any region in New Zealand.

“It is pleasing to see our consistent activity is starting to pay dividends, particularly as the international markets have been declining over the past several months,” Destination Rotorua Tourism Marketing (DRTM) assistant general manager Ruth Crampton says.

This growth is largely due to DRTM’s continuing 12-month domestic marketing activity, which includes online, national television and print, billboard advertising and letterbox drops in key destinations.

There has also been growth in the visiting friends and relatives (visitors staying in private homes) market, and it’s important the Rotorua community understands what is available as far as promotions such as locals discounts are concerned, Mrs Crampton says.

Rotorua Museum is such an example, offering complimentary entry for Rotorua residents.

School holidays and general domestic growth also contributed to the increasing visitor statistics.