The latest Paymark figures show spending via overseas credit cards through its network is up from $8,513,000 to $9,841,000 (15.6%) in the 10 days ending September 18. Spending in the region was strong on both weekends, but the largest increase came on Sunday, September 11, with an extra $235,000. The largest spending injections were in the car rental, accommodation and hospitality sectors.
The Southland region experienced the largest spending rush.
During the 10-day period, spending increased from $2,616,000 to $3,227,000 - a 23.4% increase.
The rush was largest on Sunday, September 18, when spending was up $123,000 on the corresponding Sunday in 2010, an increase of 43.3%.
By comparison, the Auckland/Northland region recorded a 13.3% increase in spending, from $48,581,000 to $55,053,000.
Paymark chief executive officer Simon Tong said nationwide, spending across both international and local cards predictably continued to benefit selected sectors, with rental car outlets enjoying an extra $2.1 million (up 32.5% year-on-year) and accommodation providers taking an extra $0.9 million (up 4.1% year-on-year).
Hospitality had been very busy keeping up with rugby fans' food and beverage requirements, with an extra $9.2 million spent during the cup's opening 10 days - an increase of 10.3% year-on-year.
Mr Tong said the pockets of regional spending painted a picture of tourists following their teams as they moved to different cities, and they appeared to be making the most of their time in the country.
"Again this week we've seen big splashes of spending amongst the likely candidates of hospitality and car rentals, and surges in the cities playing host to the games.
"However, spending in general outside these sectors is tracking at a more modest 3.5% annual growth rate.
"So, while it's clear that host cities and specific sectors are seeing great benefit from the Rugby World Cup, for others the story hasn't changed a great deal. We're hearing a lot of this from customers in the more discretionary categories who are yet to feel any real impact from the Rugby World Cup.
"With another influx of tourists expected to arrive for the finals, let's hope we see a pick up in the wider retail sector."
