Tauranga is set to attract thousands of visitors over Auckland Anniversary weekend as the city will host an array of international events.
The influx of visitors is pleasing to event organisers and Tourism Bay of Plenty but accommodation providers would rather see large events spread out more evenly.
Tony Bullot, chairman of Accommodation New Zealand, Bay of Plenty, said there were some rooms still available for the long weekend but he would not recommend leaving accommodation bookings to the last minute.
"Demand will exceed supply, I wouldn't wait," he said.
Bullot said it would be easier if large events were held on different weekends.
"It would be easier on everyone; the punters and accommodation providers if these events were spread out."
He said the number of visitors to the city meant prices for accommodation were pushed up and visitors would end up staying in places they would "prefer not to."
Tourism Bay of Plenty marketing manager Kath Low said the city would "absolutely" cope with the thousands of visitors after much consultation in readiness for these large events.
"The accommodation providers are well aware and planning for the influx."
She said the variety of events on offer over the long weekend combined with local attractions offered "something for everyone".
"For sports and music enthusiasts there will be several activities on during that weekend however for partners/spouses who may not be so keen, the cafes, restaurants, shops, beaches, attractions are all appealing," Low said.
Low said she saw the interest in hosting international events locally continuing, however, accommodation would be an ongoing problem.
"Accommodation is becoming a challenge with some groups looking at our neighbouring regions for the accommodation component of their programme."
The Enzed 2018 Jetsprints Stadium Cup was an event set to attract thousands to ASB Baypark Stadium on January 27.
Event director Pip Minnell said the popular event would be held over one day this year.
"Ticket sales are tracking steadily like they have in previous years," she said.
Around 15,000 people are likely to pack out the Baypark and Minnell said she hoped for a "near sell-out" crowd.
Many of those who will be in the crowds at the V8 boating event is likely to be from outside of Tauranga.
"We do anticipate the event to sell out," he said.
Bay Oval Cricket Trust general manager Kelvin Jones said ticket sales for the third Twenty20 match between the Black Caps and Pakistan were going strong but there were still tickets available for the January 28 match.
Jones said the Bay Oval had a capacity of 10,500 people and ticket sales were tracking at a similar rate to the amount sold when the Black Caps played the West Indies earlier this month.
He said the late January match was a good opportunity for locals to go and check out the Bay Oval grounds.
"Many people will be returning from their summer holidays and it's a great chance for locals to come and support the game," Jones said.
-DinoFest at Sydenham Botanic Park (January 25- 28) -ENZED 2018 Jetsprint Stadium Cup (January 27) -One Love 2018 (January 27/28) -Blackcaps v Pakistan 3rd T20 (January 28) -Men's Four Nations Hockey Tournament (January 27/28)
