Key Takeaways
- Northland is expecting a surge in summer visitors, with approximately 200,000 residents and a quadrupling of the population during the peak season.
- The Far North District Council has implemented water restrictions in anticipation of the influx, with 804,200 visitors in the previous summer and 818,500 in 2023/2024.
- Tourism operators are feeling positive, with bookings looking strong and visitors spending around $1.2 billion in the Northland economy each year.
- Popular destinations include the Bay of Islands, Kai Iwi Lakes, and Whangārei’s Town Basin, with many visitors returning year after year.
- The region is encouraging visitors to spend money locally and become repeat returnees, with Whangārei Mayor Ken Couper promoting the area’s attractions and ease of access.
Introduction to Northland’s Summer Season
Northland is home to approximately 200,000 residents, but during the summer season, the population quadruples, challenging local infrastructure. The Far North District Council has brought in water restrictions for its Ōpononi-Ōmāpere water supply, partly in anticipation of the influx of visitors. With 804,200 visitors to Northland last summer and 818,500 in 2023/2024, the region is expecting another busy season. According to Amy Lang, acting head of destination at Northland Inc, bookings are looking strong, and tourism operators are feeling positive.
Tourist Destinations and Activities
During the summer, visitors to Northland can enjoy a range of activities, including exploring the ocean and waterways with boat cruises in the Bay of Islands and visiting popular destinations like Kai Iwi Lakes in Northland’s Kaipara. Four out of five visitors to Northland in summer are Kiwi, but international visitation remains strong, particularly from February onwards. The international market is an important contributor to the local economy, with visitors spending around $1.2 billion in the Northland economy each year. Lang said that the region’s amazing beaches, outdoor activities, and nature reserves make it an attractive destination for both domestic and international visitors.
Campgrounds and Accommodation
Campgrounds in the region are also experiencing high demand, with Houhora Heads (Wagener) Holiday Park manager Chonelle Combrinck reporting that the campground is fully booked from December 27 to about January 3. The campground, which is partly owned by Far North District Council, employs extra staff, including French and German backpackers on working holiday visas, to cater to the influx of visitors. Combrinck said that camping is a popular and affordable holiday option, with many families returning year after year. Meanwhile, Far North Taupo Bay Holiday Park manager Cora Urlich said that guests at her family’s campground have booked to stay a week longer than usual this year, into the second week of January.
Encouraging Local Spending and Repeat Visitation
Whangārei Mayor Ken Couper is encouraging first-time visitors to spend money locally and become repeat returnees. He said that it is becoming easier for Aucklanders to travel to the region, with State Highway 1 four-laning from the country’s largest city into Northland continuing its northward march. Couper also promoted the region’s attractions, including the Hundertwasser Art Centre in Whangārei’s Town Basin, which is a popular tourist spot. Austrian tourist Iris Berger visited the centre and said that Northlanders should be proud of having such a unique building, which is the only one of its kind in New Zealand and the last building designed by the Austrian architect.
Visitor Experiences and Feedback
Visitors to Northland are enjoying the region’s laid-back feel, outdoor activities, and natural beauty. Waikato visitor Faith and her children were among those visiting Northland to stay with family in summer and said that they loved the ocean, hiking trails, and sense of being out of the city. They were excited to watch a pod of around 100 dolphins putting on a 10-minute performance at Ocean Beach near Whangārei. Berger also visited Whangārei and said that the Hundertwasser Art Centre was a highlight of her trip, and she was impressed by the region’s natural beauty and outdoor activities.Overall, Northland is expecting a busy summer season, with many visitors returning year after year to enjoy the region’s natural beauty, outdoor activities, and unique attractions.