Ōtautahi Christchurch had a record-breaking hotel occupancy rate of 96.4 percent in February 2026, the highest reported February from the last decade.
Well above the national average of 88.9 percent, this result shows extraordinary demand for the city as a travel destination, reflected in not just full hotel rooms but increasing air connectivity and a bustling summer season for local businesses.
Christchurch Hotels Hit Record Occupancy
In Hotel Data New Zealand’s report, occupancy numbers far exceeded previous year-on-year rates for February, which typically trends high as Christchurch’s peak month for visitation.
“February delivered a standout result for Novotel Christchurch Airport, marking our highest monthly occupancy since opening in 2019. It was a very strong month for the city overall and highlights the continued momentum Christchurch is building as a destination for visitors, events and business travel.”
There are many reasons behind full hotels, including sold-out events, increased airline capacity, and the introduction of a visa waiver for Chinese tourists travelling from Australia. This 12-month trial of easing visas is expected to boost tourism from China by an estimated 50,000 visitors annually to New Zealand.
Tourism Demand and Airline Growth
ChristchurchNZ Head of Destination Kath Low said this hotel data is a testament to a resilient and robust tourism industry.
“These results show just how strong demand for Christchurch is right now. People want to come here; word has got out that the city is beautiful and the events and attractions are fantastic. February’s record occupancy makes it clear that Christchurch is firmly on the map as a must-visit international destination,” said Low.
Both a driver for increased visitation and a direct reflection of demand is Christchurch’s growing airline capacity. This year, Christchurch Airport’s summer season started earlier and benefited from new and expanded air services. The airport’s total capacity increased by 375,000 seats, 11 percent more than this time last year. Domestic capacity increased by 10 percent and international capacity by 15 percent. December kicked off the summer season with a bang, recording the highest number of international visitor arrivals through Christchurch Airport for any month since records began.
“Strong demand for Christchurch is clearly reflected in what we’re seeing through the airport. With more flights, more seats and more visitors choosing Ōtautahi as their gateway, that momentum is flowing right through the city’s hotels, events and businesses,” said Christchurch Airport’s Strategic Communication Manager Sean Tully.
Events Driving Visitor Spend
Electric Avenue was again a key driver of visitation in February. While official numbers are still to be released, the two-day festival was estimated to attract 90,000 attendees across two days. Based on data from last year's event, around 23,000 visitors are expected to have travelled to Christchurch from outside the region, generating over 62,000 bed nights. As Australasia’s largest music festival, its impact on hotel demand and local businesses across the city was significant, estimated to generate over NZD 10.5 million in visitor spend.
“There is no denying the momentum in Ōtautahi right now,” said Low.
“The balance of our exciting events portfolio and amazing city experience makes us an increasingly attractive destination. There will be no slowing down as we gear up for autumn, with the opening of One New Zealand Stadium and a packed events calendar right around the corner.”
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