Wanaka tourism operators expect a busy summer catering for an upsurge in international visitor numbers.
Following Lake Wanaka Tourism's annual meeting this week, general manager James Helmore told the Otago Daily Times those who attended reported good forward bookings.
''From early February this year we have seen all the markets turn around.
''There is quite a lot of growth happening with traditional long-haul markets, and we've also got growth out of Asia.''
Mr Helmore said accommodation businesses were reporting ''very good demand'' from all markets.
There had been a significant increase in Chinese visitors, with peaks in October and February.
''But we are actually seeing Chinese all year round, because the type of visitors that come to Wanaka like to get off the beaten track.
''They've travelled widely around the globe and they are coming to experience our way of life.''
Mr Helmore said contrary to a perception the Chinese mostly travelled by bus and were only interested in shopping, many who came to Wanaka took part in activities such as guided walks, fishing and skydiving.
There had also been a resurgence from the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, France, Germany and Japan.
''I'm cautiously optimistic but every person I talked to [at the annual meeting] seemed to be very happy about where business is at, at this stage.''
Davy Pattison from Adventure Wanaka said forward bookings for his boat charter business were looking ''quite good'' and bookings for his bed and breakfast were 10% ahead of last year.
''There have been a lot more online bookings than we have ever had before.''
Brent Harridge, from Base Retail, was elected chairman of Lake Wanaka Tourism, replacing Ross McRobie, who stood down.
