Valentines Day is here, so what are the benefits?

Hospitality NZ's chief executive Steve Armitage said Valentines Day was important for the economy and relationships. Photo: 123rf.com

Love it or hate it Valentines Day is here, and comes with the potential for plenty of spending.

Hospitality NZ's chief executive Steve Armitage told Midday Report Valentines Day certainly provided a bump-up for the economy.

"Looking back on historical spend data you can see that [spending is] up as much as 10 percent, and given that valentines day falls on a Friday this year, we certainly expect to see [spending] in that again."

He said these kind of events were important on two fronts.

"Finding time and space to just celebrate the one you love is hard, because we are, you know, immersed in work and on our devices to much these days - so being in the moment I think is important.

"From a business point of view, they provide predictable days for demand because people do tend to be organised and book in advance.

"So, you know, if we are getting as much as 10 percent increase in spend, that's material to business - particularly given the years we've had in recent times around hospo."

When asked the likelihood of getting a reservation without booking in advance, Armitage said it would be tough.

"There are always venues that accept walk-ins only, but I'm not sure how the optics of not being organised will play out trying to impress someone."

He said one of the most important parts of Valentines Day was celebrating the one you love.

"I would say wherever there are two people enjoying themselves, whether that's you or a long-term love, just be in the moment with each other.

"It's a golden opportunity to appreciate and celebrate the one you love."

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