In what is a testament to the efforts of the local tourism industry, the Port Macquarie-Hastings is the only region on the New South Wales North Coast to experience an increase in total visitor numbers last financial year, outperforming popular destinations such as Coffs Harbour and Port Stephens.

The region attracted a total 1.57 million visitors, and they spent 2.8 million nights in local accommodation.

All visitor markets – domestic day, overnight and international - are up on the past five year averages.

Council director Jeffery Sharp said 41 per cent of domestic overnight visitors were aged 55+, while more than 20 per cent came from Sydney and Newcastle.

“This is an outstanding result for our region, reflecting on the efforts of local tourism businesses including accommodation providers, restaurants and cafes, tour operators and local attractions.

“Our destination marketing efforts have focused on positioning our region to attract key audiences, particularly visitors in older age groups who not only come for a getaway, but also spend more on dining out and shopping during their stays,” Mr Sharp said.

President of the Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association, Janette Hyde, also recognised the collaborative effort of local businesses and Council to build such an attractive place.

“This is a great result for our local industry which has for many years been a key contributor to our local economy,” Ms Hyde said.

“It’s pleasing to see that our visitors are recognising the quality and diversity of restaurants and cafes in the region, a valuable point of difference from other regional destinations. Together with our diverse accommodation options and attractions we really do have the complete package for visitors to enjoy.

“The Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association is committed to working with local business and council to ensure the continued success of our marketing efforts to grow tourism right across the Port Macquarie-Hastings region,” Mrs Hyde said.

International visitation has increased by 14 per cent to 67,800, with travellers from the United Kingdom and Europe making up 63% of all overseas tourists, who are flocking to enjoy our stunning beaches and picturesque hinterland.

Even more promising are the number of visitors travelling to the region for business, with an increase of 6%, totalling 16 per cent of all domestic overnight visitation.

The impact of our growing universities on domestic day visitation is also positive, with education visits increasing to four per cent.

The release of the positive visitation numbers coincides with projections recently announced by the Department of Employment, indicating that over the five years to May 2022, the Mid North Coast​ region will enjoy the highest rate of employment growth in regional NSW, and the second-highest employment growth in regional Australia.

The leading sector for employment growth is the health care and social assistance industry, followed by education and training and the construction sectors, with expectations of 1,200 new jobs to be created in each category over the next five years.