Overseas tourists have helped push an extra $12 million through the tills during the first 10 days of this year's Rugby World Cup, than they did at the same point last year.
Spending via overseas credit cards is up 32.6 per cent on last year, according to figures released today by electronics payment provider Paymark.
Spending across New Zealand increased 10 per cent to $130 million during the same period, Paymark said.
The rental car industry enjoyed an extra $2.1 million worth of sales during the 10 days - up 32.5 per cent on last year, while accommodation providers sales increased 4.1 per cent.
Paymark's chief executive Simon Tong said spending outside those sectors was tracking at a more modest 3.5 per cent annual growth rate.
"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 game."
"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."
Tong said he hoped to see a pick up in spending across the wider retail sector in time for the finals.
- NZ HERALD ONLINE