The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) on Monday said the city's annual Wine & Dine Festival had seen an "unprecedented consumer response" this year, with average daily visits rising by 30 percent year on year.

The HKTB also said sales soared thanks to improved spending sentiment and extended event hours.

The four-day event was held at the Central Harbourfront from Thursday until Sunday, as organisers extended its opening hours for the first time until midnight each night.

The food and wine festival also featured Michelin-starred chefs.

The HKTB earlier noted it expected to attract some 150,000 visitors, but in a statement released on Monday, it said around 163,000 visitors checked out the festival, almost nine percent more than anticipated, covering travellers from over 30 countries and regions.

Meanwhile, the number of average daily tasting tokens, or those that were used by visitors to buy and try out food and wine, were up nearly 40 percent year on year, it said.

The tourism board also said some merchants reported business rose by about 40 to 50 percent this year, compared with last year's edition, with both visitors and locals citing that the festival is a "not-to-be-missed" experience in town.

"We are delighted to see so many locals and visitors enthusiastically participating in the four-day Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival, driving robust spending," Peter Lam, HKTB's chairman, said.

Echoing Lam, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Rosanna Law, said the festival had delivered "outstanding results" this year, with "impressive growth in both attendance and spending."

"The Wine & Dine Festival further solidifies Hong Kong’s status as a ‘City of Gastronomy’, while also boosting the overall consumption atmosphere," Law said.

"Moreover, it allows residents and visitors to rediscover the vibrant charm of Hong Kong’s nightlife, fully leveraging the economic benefits of mega events," she added.