Tourism industry picks strong year

WELLINGTON - The tourism industry is confident about increased revenues and profitability for the year ahead, the Tourism Industry Association says.

"The tourism industry is generally expecting trading and profitability in the current year to be better than the same period in 1999," said chief executive Glenys Coughlan.

In a survey of 117 operators, 78 per cent foresaw improved revenues and 76 per cent improved profitability.


"Optimism is strongest in relation to the United Kingdom, North American and European markets," Ms Coughlan said.

On employment, 37 per cent expected an increase, 49 per cent saw no change and 14 per cent anticipated a fall. - NZPA