New Zealand is set to nearly triple the entry fees for tourists, according to a government announcement on Tuesday, sparking criticism from the tourism industry, which argues that the increased levy could deter visitors. In a statement, the government outlined plans to hike the international visitor and conservation and tourism fees from NZ$35 (approximately $21.68) to NZ$100 ($62.20) effective October 1, aiming to ensure that visitors contribute to public services and maintain high-quality experiences in New Zealand.
As with many tourist-heavy destinations worldwide, New Zealand has faced challenges due to the environmental impact of tourism and strained infrastructure. The initial NZ$35 fee, introduced in July 2019, was deemed insufficient to manage the costs associated with a high volume of tourists. The government maintains that the new fee is competitive and believes New Zealand will remain an attractive tourist destination.
However, the Tourism Industry Association of New Zealand contends that the higher fees could discourage tourism, particularly as the sector, previously the nation's largest export earner, is still recovering from the effects of COVID-19-related border closures. Rebecca Ingram, the association's chief executive, expressed concern that New Zealand's tourism recovery is lagging behind global trends and that the fee increase could further harm its international competitiveness.
Data from Stats NZ indicates that travel export receipts for the year ending June 30 stood at NZ$14.96 billion, a 5% decrease compared to pre-pandemic levels. Visitor numbers are currently at about 80% of the levels seen before the border closures. Additionally, the New Zealand government has recently raised visitor visa costs and is considering increasing charges at regional airports, a move described by Billie Moore, NZ Airports chief executive, as a 'triple-whammy' for the sector striving to aid New Zealand's economic recovery.
