Lions' share worth $120m to economy

The thousands of rugby fans following the Lions to New Zealand are expected to spend $120 million.

The estimate in research commissioned by the New Zealand Rugby Union trumps a Tourism NZ prediction of a $50 million boost to the economy from British fans.

Nigel Cass, the rugby union's manager of the Lions series, said most British visitors would spend several weeks in the country.

"The economic benefit will not just be felt in one part of the country. It'll be felt from Invercargill in the south to Auckland because the team is going everywhere."

The ANZ Bank estimates the tour will add about 0.1 per cent to GDP in the middle of the year.

Although this effect will be temporary, it will come at a time when resource capacity within the economy is already stretched, the bank says in a report.

On top of spending during the tour, the tourism industry could benefit long-term.

About 200 foreign journalists will accompany the touring side and many will write travel articles alongside their rugby commentary.

The bank says the tour will put considerable pressure on airlines, hotels, restaurants and rental vehicle companies.

Most visitors will be big spenders - travelling business class, and with about 60 per cent on arranged tours worth up to $18,000 each.

Tourism Auckland chief executive Graeme Osborne said the economic impact of the tour would be huge for Auckland.

"We know that many visitors will be using Auckland as a base during their stay in New Zealand."

* The 11-match Lions tour runs from June 4 to July 9.

Fifteen thousand overseas visitors are expected.