The summer school holidays have delivered a significant boost to accommodation and tourism operators across New South Wales, with the Hunter region riding a wave of inventive new programs designed for families.
Wildlife Sanctuaries Lead the Holiday Charge
According to the latest data from Destination NSW, the state welcomed 126.3 million visitors who spent a total of $59.4 billion over a year, with key destinations including Port Stephens, the Hunter Valley, and Newcastle.
Capitalising on this domestic travel trend, the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary launched a new three-day pass for the summer break. Assistant manager Melinda Atkinson said the pass allows families to experience koalas at different activity times across multiple days. The sanctuary has already seen a busy start, with over 3800 day visitors since the holidays began, experiencing a steady mix of domestic and international guests.
"By visiting, you're directly supporting the care of koalas in our region," Ms Atkinson noted, highlighting that holiday tourism supports local jobs and encourages longer stays in the wider destination.
Further inland, Aussie Ark in the Barrington Tops has opened its conservation facility for January, offering the public a chance to see endangered species like the Tasmanian devil and raising crucial funds through ticket sales.
Beyond the Bush: Urban Activities for All Ages
The holiday spirit isn't confined to traditional tourism. In Newcastle, venues are adapting to capture the family market. Jams Karaoke and Bar now hosts Kids Karaoke sessions during daytime hours, providing a unique, alcohol-free family outing.
For teens, Urth Fitness is running a free 'Teen Gym' program for 14 to 18-year-olds, offering supervised training sessions until January 25.
A variety of pop-up workshops are also engaging young minds. These include pottery classes at The Art Department on King Street, circus skills workshops at the Newcastle Pole and Aerials Academy in Sandgate, and extra surfing lessons from the Newcastle Surfest Surf School for children as young as five.
A Sustainable Boost for the Regional Economy
The influx of holidaymakers provides more than just short-term fun. As Ms Atkinson explained, this seasonal tourism strengthens the regional economy, supports local employment, and often turns first-time visitors into repeat guests who explore the broader Hunter region.
From wildlife conservation to urban creativity, Hunter businesses are demonstrating that catering to the school holiday crowd requires innovation, directly contributing to the area's economic vitality and creating lasting family memories.
