Local businesses are feeling the financial aftershocks following the Whakaari/White Island eruption.

Infometrics figures show tourism makes up nearly five percent of the district's economy, and provides about 900 jobs.

Whakatāne Alton Motor Lodge co-owner Alison McCort told Mike Yardley she has already had a drop in bookings.

"You've got quite a few people who would have booked around Christmas to go to White Island."

She says the mood around town is sombre, but she remains positive about the future.

"Only about 10 per cent of our visitors are going to White Island. A lot of local visitors come here because of family connections and the East Coast."

Figures show tourism contributed $66 million to the district last year