The latest monthly Regional Tourism Estimates show a strong start to the winter season with increased expenditure in every region.

Otago led the way with $3.2b in spending by both domestic and international visitors.

That's an 11% increase on June last year.

In total six regions saw expenditure of over $1b, something Associate Tourism Minister Paula Bennett attributes to hard work at both national and local levels.

She says the government remains focused on the dispersal of visitors across New Zealand to make sure all regions benefit from tourism spend.