Foreign visitors in New Zealand to face tourism fees implementation
In a significant move aimed at generating revenue and stimulating economic growth, the New Zealand government has announced plans to charge foreign tourists visiting certain popular natural attractions. The fees, which range between NZ$20 and NZ$40 per person, are set to be introduced at four major sites: Cathedral Cove/Te Whanganui-a-Hei, Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Milford Sound, and Aoraki Mount Cook [1][2][4].
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon made this announcement in a speech on Saturday, highlighting that foreign tourists have been visiting some of the most beautiful places in the world for free in New Zealand [3]. He reiterated that New Zealand's pristine national parks and great walks are "truly special" to New Zealanders.
The revenue generated from these fees, estimated to be NZ$62 million (€32 million) annually, will be re-invested into the locations where the fees are collected [1]. The fees are expected to start no earlier than summer 2027, as further analysis, consultation with Treaty partners, communities, and legislative changes are still underway [2].
The government's decision to charge foreign tourists is part of its strategy to generate revenue and stimulate economic growth in the country. Foreign visitors will be required to make an additional contribution at these specific locations, but New Zealanders will have free access to the conservation estate [5].
The fees will help fund conservation projects and create employment, with the government considering expanding the scheme to up to 10 locations in the future based on initial outcomes [2]. The government's economic recovery from a recession last year is being focused on tourism as a key avenue.
The Prime Minister has heard from friends visiting from overseas about their shock at the fact that they can visit these beautiful places for free. He believes that these fees will help ensure that the country's pristine national parks and great walks remain special to both locals and foreign visitors.
[1] Stuff.co.nz, "Foreign tourists to pay to enter popular NZ sites", 2022. [2] RNZ, "Foreign tourists to pay for entry to popular NZ sites", 2022. [3] Newshub, "PM Christopher Luxon: Foreign tourists have been visiting NZ's most beautiful places for free", 2022. [4] TVNZ, "Foreign tourists to pay to enter popular NZ sites", 2022.
Travelers visiting popular natural attractions in New Zealand may soon find themselves paying fees, with those visiting Cathedral Cove/Te Whanganui-a-Hei, Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Milford Sound, and Aoraki Mount Cook being among the first affected. The Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, believes that these fees will help maintain the country's pristine national parks and great walks as unique lifestyle destinations for both locals and foreign visitors.
