North Island mayors are welcoming a 200-million dollar tourism support package - even though several South Island districts will get the money first

Tourism Minister Stuart Nash announced the money yesterday, saying five "vulnerable" South Island regions will have first access.

Nevertheless, Rotorua mayor Steve Chadwick hopes it will reignite her city's vital sector.

She says a number of businesses have had to hibernate in the Covid-19 era.

And Taupo mayor David Trewavas says funding will be used for a marketing organisation rebuild.