$120m poured in during Lions tour

Their rugby team may not have performed on the field but fans of the British and Irish Lions exceeded expectations, ploughing more than $120 million into the economy.

Auckland was the biggest winner, according to an economic impact report on the June and July tour, with spending topping $50 million.

The report, by independent consultancy Covec, reveals the Lions tour was worth twice that of the combined America's Cup defences in 2000 and 2003.

The nation's economy felt the benefit to the tune of $135 million. Of that, the international fans accounted for $123 million and New Zealand fans for $12 million.

"This is a very substantial impact especially given the relatively short amount of time it was generated in," said the report.

More than 20,000 fans arrived in New Zealand for the tour of 11 matches in six weeks. In Auckland alone the tour added 144,000 visitor nights.

Unsurprisingly, of the $50 million splashed out in Auckland, most - more than $11 million - was spent on food and drink. Next came airfares, with about $10 million spent, followed by about $9 million on accommodation.

The fans also enjoyed the shopping opportunities, spending $6 million on retail.

Richard Northey, chairman of the Auckland City Council's economic development and sustainable business committee, said it was imperative that the city and the region continued to encourage such events.

"The fact that this event has been so successful reinforces Auckland's reputation as a city that is able and willing to host major international events and that sets us up well for the future."

The DHL-sponsored series was a significant boost for the tourism industry as it took place during a traditionally quiet period.

Tourism Auckland chief executive Graeme Osborne said that in addition to the cash injection, the Lions tour would have long-term flow-on effects for the country.

The report was commissioned by the Auckland City Council, Tourism Auckland, the Ministry of Tourism and Tourism Dunedin.

Fans in Auckland

Food and drink: $11 million.
Airfares: $10 million.
Accommodation: $9 million.
Total: $50 million.