February 23, 2018

A snapshot of hotel occupancy rates in Yellowknife is providing yet another indicator of growth in the NWT’s tourism sector.

Data acquired by the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI)’s Tourism and Parks division shows year over year gains in February (nearly 9% increase), August (nearly 6% increase), October (over 11%) and November (nearly 9%). Occupancy rates remain strong even with additional room inventory due to hotel expansions in 2017, indicating visitation numbers continue to grow.

The increases can be aligned with the Aurora viewing season.

The NWT had its highest number of Aurora visitors in 2016/17 – an increase of 23% from the previous season. Visitor spending by Aurora viewers also increased – totalling close to $49 million.

While the aurora market is diversifying with more Canadians and Americans visiting, growth in the Aurora sector can be attributed predominantly to Chinese and Korean visitors traveling to the NWT.

The number of Leisure visitors to the NWT also increased in 2016/17; up 17%. A 13% increase in business travel to the NWT in 2016/17 will also have impacted occupancy rates.

ITI completes research and analysis throughout the year to provide an accurate picture of tourism activities in the NWT. ITI also provides research data to Northwest Territories Tourism to help develop marketing programs to address challenges faced by the NWT tourism industry.