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12 March 2026
Christchurch hits February high with record occupancy numbers
Ōtautahi Christchurch recorded a decade-high hotel occupancy rate of 96.4% in February 2026, driven by major events, increased airline capacity and strong international demand. The result highlights the city’s growing attractiveness as a top travel destination.
Demand strong as Christchurch records highest February occupancy in a decade
Ōtautahi Christchurch had a record-breaking hotel occupancy rate of 96.4% in February 2026, the highest reported February from the last decade.
Well above the national average of 88.9%, this result shows extraordinary demand for the city as a travel destination, reflected in not just full hotel rooms but increasing air connectivity and a bustling summer season for local businesses.
In Hotel Data New Zealand’s report, occupancy numbers far exceeded previous year-on-year rates for February, which typically trends high as Christchurch’s peak month for visitation.
Hotel performance highlights Christchurch’s increasing attractiveness
General Manager of Novotel Christchurch Airport James Wilson says, “February delivered a standout result for Novotel Christchurch Airport, marking our highest monthly occupancy since opening in 2019. It was a very strong month for the city overall and highlights the continued momentum Christchurch is building as a destination for visitors, events and business travel.”
There are many reasons behind full hotels, including sold-out events, increased airline capacity, and the introduction of a visa waiver for Chinese tourists travelling from Australia. This 12-month trial of easing visas is expected to boost tourism from China by an estimated 50,000 visitors annually to New Zealand.
ChristchurchNZ Head of Destination Kath Low says this hotel data is a testament to a resilient and robust tourism industry.
“These results show just how strong demand for Christchurch is right now. People want to come here – word has got out that the city is beautiful and the events and attractions fantastic. February’s record occupancy makes it clear that Christchurch is firmly on the map as a must-visit international destination,”Kath Low - ChristchurchNZ Head of Destination
Christchurch Airport capacity increase fuels tourism momentum
Both a driver for increased visitation and a direct reflection of demand is Christchurch’s growing airline capacity. This year, Christchurch Airport’s summer season started earlier and benefited from new and expanded air services. The airport’s total capacity increased by 375,000 seats – 11% more than this time last year. Domestic capacity increased by 10% and international capacity by 15%. December kicked off the summer season with a bang, recording the highest number of international visitor arrivals through Christchurch Airport for any month since records began.
Christchurch Airport’s Strategic Communication Manager Sean Tully says, “Strong demand for Christchurch is clearly reflected in what we’re seeing through the airport. With more flights, more seats and more visitors choosing Ōtautahi as their gateway, that momentum is flowing right through the city’s hotels, events and businesses.”
Christchurch summer events set the stage for strong autumn season
Electric Avenue was again a key driver of visitation in February. While official numbers are still to be released, the two-day festival was estimated to attract 90,000 attendees across two days. Based on data from last year's event, around 23,000 visitors are expected to have travelled to Christchurch from outside the region, generating over 62,000 bed nights. As Australasia’s largest music festival, its impact on hotel demand and local businesses across the city was significant – estimated to generate over $10.5 million in visitor spend.
“There is no denying the momentum in Ōtautahi right now. The balance of our exciting events portfolio and amazing city experience makes us an increasingly attractive destination. Coming off the back of a standout summer, there will be no slowing down as we gear up for autumn, with the opening of One New Zealand Stadium and a packed events calendar right around the corner.”Kath Low - ChristchurchNZ Head of Destination
Key takeaways
- Christchurch hit a decade‑high February occupancy rate of 96.4%, far surpassing the national average of 88.9%.
- Hotel demand surged across the city, with Novotel Christchurch Airport recording its highest occupancy month since opening in 2019.
- Increased airline capacity, up 11% year-on-year, boosted visitor arrivals with strong domestic (10%) and international (15%) growth.
- December 2025 recorded the highest number of international visitor arrivals through Christchurch Airport for any month since records began.
- Major events and tourism drivers include Electric Avenue, expanded air services and the China–Australia visa waiver trial.
- Christchurch is seeing strong momentum heading into autumn with new infrastructure and major events ahead.
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