Vintage 2024: Central Otago
With a late frost last year, a hailstorm in February, and frost fighting in March, some subregions of Central Otago have been kept on their toes this season.
Lincoln University has just released the results of a survey carried out last summer at 17 of Central Otago’s top cellar doors.
The results provide positive insights into the characteristics, habits and perceptions of wine tourists in the region, enabling the industry to better target this key market.
Central Otago Winegrowers’ Association President James Dicey said tourism is the next frontier for Central Otago’s wine industry.”
“Huge investment in Queenstown airport and predicted significant increases in visitor numbers provides the industry with a massive opportunity.
“Knowing and understanding what wine tourists want and like is a key first step. This research is hugely beneficial for providing information to that end.”
A total of 178 respondents were interviewed, exploring the characteristics of Central Otago wine tourists, their activity and expenditure in the area as well as their perceptions of the region and their winery visit experiences.
Two-thirds of the respondents were from overseas, with most from Australia, USA and the UK. Though the 55-64 age group was identified as the biggest spenders per person, the largest visitor bracket was well-educated 18-35 year olds.
The research suggests that the wine industry is playing a key role in the region’s tourism with most visitors staying in accommodation in nearby Queenstown or Arrowtown.
It outlines another ‘breed’ of tourist to the adrenaline junkies solely visiting Queenstown for bungy jumps and jet boat rides.
The average overall spend per person was $443, with many buying Central Otago wines to take home. Spending also appeared to be spread across a number of different areas, with wine tourists predominantly visiting Gibbston, Wanaka and Cromwell during their stay.
The results suggest that Central Otago’s reputation as a great wine lover’s destination is growing – seventy-five percent had chosen to visit before leaving home, but only a quarter of international visitors had visited before.
As part of the study respondents were also asked what they thought of the region’s ‘image’ as a destination.
While stunning natural features came top of the list of attributes, wineries and vineyards came in at second.
That great scenery is apparently important when enjoying great wines – 42% said the natural elements were the most enjoyable aspect of their winery visit while a close 37% said they enjoyed the wine above all else.
Dicey said the survey gave a good indication of what wine tourists looked for in a destination.
“There are many great aspects of Central Otago and the wine produced here, but a better understanding of why people visit us is key to building on our strengths as a top wine destination.”
