New Zealand has announced a significant increase in entry fees for tourists, nearly tripling the current fee from NZ$35 to NZ$100, starting October 1. The government stated that this increase is necessary to ensure visitors contribute to public services and maintain high-quality experiences while visiting the country. The move comes as New Zealand grapples with the environmental impact and infrastructure strain caused by high tourism numbers.
While the government believes the fee is competitive and that New Zealand will continue to be an appealing destination, the tourism industry is concerned that the higher fees will deter visitors, especially as the sector is still recovering from strict border closures due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Travel export receipts have decreased by 5% compared to pre-pandemic levels, and visitor numbers are at around 80% of what they were before the border closures.
In addition to the increase in entry fees, the government has also raised visitor visa costs and proposed higher charges on regional airports. This has been described as a “triple-whammy” for the tourism sector, which is working hard to support New Zealand’s economic recovery. The industry is worried that these additional costs will further hinder the recovery process and reduce the country’s global competitiveness as a tourist destination.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
