Pūrongorongo
Data & Insight Reports
These reports serve as an extension of the dashboards available on DISH, offering timely and comprehensive quarterly data and insights tailored to a broad range of audiences. While the dashboards provide an at-a-glance overview, these reports delve deeper, offering further insights specific to the Murihiku Southland region. The reports are structured around four quarterly periods throughout the year: January to March, April to June, July to September, and October to December, ensuring consistent and up-to-date information to support local decision-making, planning, and development.
Tourism Reports
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Q2 2025 Murihiku Southland Tourism Report
Murihiku Southland’s visitor economy remains in good shape, with growth in several key areas and continued strength in the region’s core tourism offerings.
For the 12 months to June 2025, total regional spend reached $359.7 million, an increase of $2.1 million (+0.6%) on the previous year. While national tourism spend has seen fluctuations in recent months, Southland’s steady growth highlights the region’s ability to attract visitors year-round.
Commercial accommodation occupancy in Fiordland averaged 52.8% over the year, up 1 percentage point, while the Southland RTO area recorded 49.9%.
These figures remain competitive with many other regional destinations, providing a strong base to build on, particularly in shoulder and off-peak seasons.
Milford Sound/Piopiotahi continues to be a stand-out drawcard, welcoming 784,072 visitors, more than 53,000 up on the previous year (+7.3%). This reinforces its role as a key anchor attraction and a driver of wider regional travel.
Events are playing an increasingly important role in boosting visitation and regional vibrancy. Over the past year, 153 major events (500+ attendees) were hosted, five more than the year before.
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Economic Reports
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Q2 2025 Murihiku Southland Economic Report
Southland’s economy continues to demonstrate both strength and resilience, with the latest quarterly figures reflecting the unique advantages our region holds.
While national economic conditions remain mixed, Southland’s story is one of steady progress, adaptability and confidence in the future. Our position as a leading producer of food and fibre, combined with the innovation happening in new sectors such as aquaculture and renewable energy, means the region is well placed to weather challenges while also seizing opportunities.
The past quarter has highlighted the importance of collaboration in driving regional success. Businesses, iwi, local government and community organisations have continued to work together to advance shared priorities, from workforce development and infrastructure planning to housing and industry diversification. This spirit of partnership ensures Southland’s growth remains sustainable, inclusive and strongly connected to the needs of our people.
As with any regional economy, there are fluctuations in spending, investment, and demand. However, the bigger picture for Southland remains positive. Employment levels are healthy, investment in housing and commercial development is strong and consumer activity continues to provide a solid base for businesses. Southland’s affordability, lifestyle advantages and reputation for high quality products further strengthen our competitive edge on both the national and global stage.
Looking ahead, the region is committed to building on its foundations while preparing for the opportunities of tomorrow. By investing in skills, encouraging innovation and creating the right environment for businesses and communities to thrive, Southland is setting itself up for a resilient and prosperous future.
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Housing Reports
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Q2 2025 Murihiku Southland Housing Report
Murihiku Southlands housing market continues to show positive momentum, reflecting both the region’s liveability and its growing appeal to visitors and new residents.
The population grew by 2.4% over the past year to reach 103,800 people, continuing a steady upward trend and reinforcing Murihiku Southland’s reputation as a welcoming and vibrant place to live and visit.
Confidence in the region has seen median house prices increase by 10% where the rest of the country decreased. Murihiku Southand’s house prices are still a lot more affordable, however, rent affordability (rents as a percentage of region’s household income) have continued to deteriorate to similar levels to the rest of the country.
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