Casino operator SkyCity Entertainment Group reported revenue of NZD1 billion ($656.6m) for its fiscal year, up 8.7% from NZD902 million ($591.9m) the previous year, thanks to more Asian VIP customers visiting New Zealand.

SkyCity’s international VIP business delivered a 42% increase in turnover to $9.3b in the year ending June 30. Normalized earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) were up 35.1% to NZD26.4 million ($17.3m) while normalized revenue jumped 42.6% to NZD125.6 million ($82.3m).

Net profit rose 31% to NZD128.7 million ($84.6m), significantly exceeding last year’s NZD98.5 million ($64.6m).

“Growth in International Business turnover continues to be underpinned by the success of the expanded sales and marketing team, increased recognition of the ‘Horizon’ brand and offering, a strong focus on direct relationships with VIP customers and continued growth in the number of Asian VIP customers visiting New Zealand,” said SkyCity.