Business owners in the Bay of Islands are welcoming a surge of visitors following Christmas, which brings relief after years of disruptions. The influx was especially notable on December 27, turning the previously quiet town of Paihia into a bustling hub. Donna Smith, co-owner of The Hideout café on Kings Road, observed the boon in tourism, attributing it to locals choosing to spend Christmas at home and visiting thereafter.
The increase in tourists is providing much-needed business to the area, with accommodation services reportedly full, boosted by the arrival of cruise ship passengers. Smith remarked on the positive change, predicting a more successful summer compared to last year. The region has faced numerous challenges over the past five years, including pandemics, lockdowns, and storms, which have heavily impacted local businesses.
Across the water, in Russell, Riki Kinnaird, owner of the Duke of Marlborough, noted full bookings for accommodation but observed a 10% downturn in restaurant business compared to pre-Covid times. The town has seen an increase in the number of restaurants, offering customers more choices, although the economic recovery to pre-pandemic levels might take another summer.
Despite concerns over the weather forecast predicting showers on New Year’s Eve, the community is optimistic, with plans for annual fireworks scheduled to go ahead to welcome the New Year. Businesses in the area collectively fund the fireworks display, marking resilience and a comeback to normalcy post-Covid disruptions. Shifting winds have affected outdoor seating along the Strand in Russell, but other locations remain appealing to visitors.
Looking ahead, the New Year’s Day weather is expected to be fine, further boosting spirits and business prospects in the Bay of Islands.
