The busy period began earlier than usual, Edgewater Hotel being fully booked throughout November and December.
General manager Leigh Stock said both the hotel and its restaurant had experienced one of their strongest summers in recent years, with all 106 units occupied.
"The majority of our guests have been international visitors, and we’ve seen particularly strong numbers from China," Mr Stock said.
"I would say it has surpassed previous years in terms of how busy it has been."
The restaurant had also been "rushed off its feet" catering to locals and guests.
In the town centre, New World Wānaka also recorded increased spending.
New owner Paul Joyce said trading had lifted slightly on last year, the rush beginning in early December and showing no sign of slowing.
"It has been slightly ahead, which is encouraging, and hasn’t showed signs of slowing yet," he said.
The supermarket hired additional seasonal staff — though that was not uncommon for the summer peak period.
Four Square Albert Town owner-operator Campbell Sinclair said the store was "well and truly back to pre-Covid levels", with strong foot traffic from families and tourists travelling through the district.
Everyone had been well-behaved, and the business had employed a lot of staff to keep up, he said.
Other retailers are also noticing the lift.
Cornerstore manager Lucy Gullifer, who has worked through the past five summers, said this season was easily the busiest.
"It has been bloody hectic," she said.
"Christmas and New Year’s have been on par with last year, and it definitely feels busier this year than previous years."
She said customers were a mix of locals and holiday-makers from around the country.
She also noticed a larger number of internationals for this time of year, from Europe, the United States and Australia.
"Everyone has been saying it has felt busier than usual this summer, I think."
Wānaka had a noticeable party vibe in the new year period, with a lakefront of people celebrating the new year.
It was also host to the Rhythm and Alps festival held in Cardrona Valley, which 10,000 people attended, organisers said.
