PHOTO: ODT FILESNew Zealanders are flocking to the outdoors and in some places more than making up for the loss of foreign tourists. The Otago Conservation Board released figures from July 1 last year, and covering the following 12 months, which showed visitor numbers in the South have been a mixed bag. Visitors to Ulva Island in Stewart Island increased by 37%. Rakiura Retreat operator Lorraine Kelly said from October last year to June this year, visitor numbers were so high in Stewart Island the main hotel was often preparing more than 180 meals in a single night. Cyclists on the Otago Central Rail Trail increased 24% as New Zealanders looked for adventure closer to home.

Source: Otago Daily Times September 14, 2021 16:39 UTC