The New Zealand economy is seeing the start of a modest recovery from the recession which dominated the scene in 2008 and 2009, with conditions in place for growth this year. The global economic environment has continued to improve and the domestic economy has proved more resilient than many commentators gave it credit for. For hotels, however, a more robust recovery will only come when international tourism rebounds.

Thankfully, with an anticipated 85,000 visitors and $55 million in confirmed hotel bookings, the Rugby World Cup in September and October 2011 will most likely act as the catalyst for recovery, particularly given the country's strong track record for capitalising on events which catapult it onto the global stage. If successful, the long-term benefits for New Zealand tourism should be considerable.