ILT Delivers $8.38m To Invercargill Community

ILT maintains investment in people and community through challenging trading year

ILT Group held its Annual General Meeting on 8 September, outlining its financial performance for the year ended 31 March 2026.

Against a challenging operating environment for the hospitality and accommodation sector, ILT maintained revenue broadly in line with the previous year while continuing to invest in its long-term assets and the community.

ILT achieved EBITDA of $10.4 million for the year, just 3% below the previous year. Earnings before tax were $6.1 million, reflecting increased operating costs and depreciation associated with continued investment in the Group's properties.

ILT Chief Executive Chris Ramsay said the result reflected the commitment of ILT's people and a continued focus on managing costs across the Group.

"Cost-of-living pressures, higher electricity costs and the impact of rising fuel prices continued to affect discretionary spending throughout the year," Mr Ramsay said.

"We also experienced an oversupply of accommodation rooms in Invercargill for much of the year. Despite these pressures, maintaining revenue at almost the same level as the previous year was a solid outcome. Our EBITDA result was only marginally down on the prior year, which reflects the work our people have done to manage controllable costs," Mr Ramsay said.

Capital expenditure was well ahead of the previous year as ILT progressed its capital asset management plan, including a $1 million room-refurbishment programme at Villas Motel, formerly Homestead Villa Motels. A further $1.7 million is planned for the next stage during the current financial year.

Mr Ramsay said the investment reflected ILT's confidence in the region.

"We are continuing to invest in the quality and long-term sustainability of our businesses. The refurbishment programme at Villas Motel is an important example of that commitment. Our aim is to maintain high-quality venues and accommodation that continue to provide a great experience for our guests and visitors," he said.

ILT also recognised the contribution of its people during the year, providing a one-off bonus to every member of the ILT family in February.

ILT President Paddy O'Brien said the Board was pleased to recognise the commitment of ILT staff across the Group.

"Our people are central to ILT's success. The Board wanted to acknowledge the work that keeps ILT moving forward, and the bonus was a small but meaningful way to show our appreciation," he said.

The Group contributed $8.38 million in funding support to the community during the year through ILT and the ILT Foundation.

Mr O'Brien said the Group was proud to continue supporting the Invercargill community.

"This support reaches right across Invercargill, from significant projects such as Te Unua, the new Museum of Southland, and the renewal of the local football turf, to the smaller clubs, organisations and initiatives that matter to our community," Mr O'Brien said.