28 Jul 2010

Tourists now likely to spend less in NZ

3:13 pm on 28 July 2010

Researchers have found increased fuel prices won't necessarily deter tourists from travelling to New Zealand, but they are likely to spend less once they're here.

Associate Professor Susanne Becken, lead researcher for the Tourism and Oil project, says most tourists are not price sensitive, because New Zealand is not a cheap holiday destination.

She says tourists are willing to pay increased prices for travelling within New Zealand and also for tourist attractions.

But Ms Becken says their research has found tourists are likely to make cuts, by eliminating visits to some destinations, eating at restaurants and making compromises on accommodation.

She says Asia is the most price sensitive of New Zealand's major tourism markets.