Tourism a winner in Louis Vuitton Pacific Series

Auckland and its tourism industry reaped the benefits of the Louis Vuitton Pacific Series, according to an independent economic impact report.

The two-week regatta, held from 30 January to 14 February 2009, injected at least $16.1 million of additional cash into the Auckland economy.

Hospitality and tourism sectors enjoyed a benefit of $5.44 million.

The nine visiting teams spent around 6,600 nights in Auckland, while the domestic and international spectators generated 2,100 nights.

Tourism Auckland, which sponsored the regatta alongside Auckland City Council and AucklandPlus, is thrilled with the result.

Chief executive, Graeme Osborne, says the event was a resounding success.

“This is a significant injection into the Auckland economy and a great example of Auckland’s ability to stage and attract visitors to major events.”

“The series fitted perfectly with Tourism Auckland’s event focus – growing visitor numbers and spend and showcasing our city to the world,” says Graeme.

Daily coverage of the event was distributed to international television networks free of charge and aired in key tourist markets in America, Asia and Europe.

The daily highlights packages achieved 340 hours of air time over 30 channels in more than 100 countries and reached more than 600 million viewers.

“This global media coverage thrust Auckland into the international spotlight at a time when we are competing with other cities for visitors,” says Graeme.

The Louis Vuitton Pacific Series saw ten international teams, including Emirates Team New Zealand, compete in a match race regatta in the Waitemata Harbour. Emirates Team New Zealand won the series.

^{[1] The Impact of the Louis Vuitton Pacific Series 2009 on Auckland. A Covec report prepared for AucklandPlus and Auckland City Council, March 2009}