Queenstown tourism operators are taking charge in tackling the town's accommodation shortages

Many major players have bought their own staff housing -- in the form of old hostels or hotels -- or have privately leased properties.

Mayor Glyn Lewers acknowledges smaller businesses who don't have those resources, but says it's great seeing the big boys step up.

He says it's a balancing act as major players are doing right by their workers, but can take resource out of the market for others.

Although accommodation issues continue to plague locals, with the wait-list for affordable homes crossing more than 13-hundred families.