Internet dating activity grows in New Year

An internet dating site has seen a boom in membership this holiday season - possibly because people have more time on their hands, says a relationship consultant.

Trade Me's Findsomeone site has seen a 30 per cent increase in online activity this New Year.

Relationship consultant Suzanne Innes-Kent said this could be because more people have time and support to look for a partner.

"People have got two things happening over the Christmas period. One is time out of their usual routines and the other is support and encouragement around them - so they probably have people who are egging them on."

She also said seeing other people's connections over the holiday season could bring about a sense of loneliness.

Ms Innes-Kent said people have always needed help in finding a partner and the internet was a good way of doing this.

Findsomeone business manager Mike O'Donnell said there had been an increase in membership and people sending messages and smiles to each other on the dating site.

He said the typical online dater was 39 years-old, had some tertiary education, was a non-smoker and a social drinker.

- NZPA