Findings of more than 3000 departure surveys, representing 11,000 visitors, were completed between December 21, 2020 and May 13, 2021 and were released by Great South last week.
Of those surveyed, 26.9% were from Auckland, 17.5% from Canterbury but only 4.1% were from Southland.
Great South tourism and events general manager Bobbi Brown said Stewart Island had bucked the trend, being far busier than other locations in Southland.
"The good news from the survey is that trend was likely to continue, since most people surveyed intend to return and they will be spreading the word about their stay."
Almost a quarter of visitors were family groups, with 46% of travellers classified as older travellers, aged 50 years or more.
Of those who had travelled to the island, 69% had never been there before but 93% said they would definitely return.
Top reasons for visiting the island were; it was on their bucket list (27%), wanting to see kiwi (19%) and tramping, walking or hunting (15%).
There were challenges experienced by some, with activities and accommodation often booked out and difficulties trying to plan meals with restaurants quickly becoming booked out.
The information would be presented to key stakeholders such as tourism operators, the Southland District Council, Air New Zealand and the Department of Conservation to support forward planning.
