Hastings District Council says its latest international visitor spending data is a key bright spot for the local economy, with two years of sustained growth helping offset softer domestic spending.
The latest Marketview report to March 2026 shows international visitor spending in the district is up 15.6% on the same period last year, providing a significant boost to local businesses at a time when visitor numbers from across New Zealand remain low.
Bucking that domestic trend, Auckland was a positive outlier, with visitor spending from the region up around 7%.
The international visitor trend is now well established, with double-digit growth recorded in every quarter over at least the past two years. That sustained lift reflects Hastings’ appeal as a place to visit, underpinned by continued investment in events, experiences and city vibrancy, and is helping offset softer domestic demand.
Mayor, Wendy Schollum said the figures reflected a mixed picture for the district.
“We know it’s still a tough environment for many families and businesses. People are watching their spending, and that’s being felt right across our local economy,” she said.
“At the same time, we’re seeing more international visitors choosing Hastings, and that is helping keep people in work and money flowing through local businesses at a time when domestic spending is under pressure.”
Overall spending in Hastings remained under pressure in the three months to March, down 1.9% for the quarter and 3.5% over the past 12 months, broadly in line with trends seen over the past year.
Mayor Schollum said the results reinforced the importance of continuing to invest in the district’s long-term strengths.
“We can’t control what’s happening nationally or globally, but we can keep backing Hastings, supporting our businesses, investing in our district, and making sure people want to be here.”
“That includes continuing to build on what’s working – attracting visitors, supporting events and activity, and creating a district people are proud to be part of.”
Council will continue to monitor spending trends closely over coming quarters as part of its wider economic development programme.
The Marketview data is based on electronic card spending, which captures most in-store transactions but excludes cash and some online purchases.
