Island time appeals

• Published date: 18 April 2024
• Publication title: Southland Express

The island has just experienced a bumper summer season

An increase of 6874 visitors was recorded for the February 2023-January 2024 period over the previous period — a 20% rise.

When borders were shut because of Covid, island tourist operators were fearful no-one would visit.

But many New Zealanders, especially from the North Island, headed south to Stewart Island for a holiday and the island enjoyed some busy times.

Now, there appears to be fewer New Zealanders making the trek across Foveaux Strait but they have been replaced by those from further afield. The increase is also a boon for the island as the visitor levy was increased from $5 to $10 last October.

That has led to a rise in levy income of more than $100,000 or a 68% increase from the previous period.

Southland District councillor Jon Spraggon, who represents the Stewart Island ward, said the influx of visitors had boosted income for the island’s hospitality industry.

‘‘The island has certainly been busy and it has really bounced back. It’s been very hard to get accommodation even through to early May this year.’’

Mr Spraggon said the additional income from the visitor levy was welcome as it allowed the community to establish better infrastructure on the island which he was looking forward to seeing completed.

Establishing a safer walking track from Halfmoon Bay to Golden Bay was high on the list of priorities.

‘‘The Golden Bay wharf is definitely high on the list ... They’re just finalising costs and things for them at the moment.’’

Accommodation remained heavily booked.

‘‘It’s been a really good season, but people are just starting to get a little tired.’’

He believed the return of cruise ships to the island boosted the visitor numbers, however it was only disembarking passengers who paid a levy.

Those passengers also contributed to other aspects of the island’s tourist economy.

‘‘There’s still a shortage on the island of places for meals.

‘‘You’ve...