The latest Tourism New Zealand figures show inbound travel continues to make a powerful contribution to Aotearoa New Zealand’s economy with international visitors spending NZD$11.6 billion (around AUD$10.6 billion) in the 12 months to June 2024. That’s up 41 per cent and NZD$3.4 billion on the previous year.
The top three markets by spend between July 2023 and June 2024 were Australia, the US and China. The data also showed that 28 per cent of international holiday visitors travelled to four or more regions in the quarter between April and June 2024.
The International Visitor Survey data highlights that tourism remains New Zealand’s second-largest export earner, underscoring its vital role in the Kiwi economy.
Increased spending by international visitors translates to more tourism jobs, productive businesses and vibrant communities that in turn boost New Zealand’s attractiveness as a destination.
Tourism New Zealand’s strategy to grow year-round and off-peak tourism focuses on increasing the value that international visitors bring to New Zealand’s economy, reflected in the latest spend figures.
Strategic initiatives include Tourism New Zealand’s ‘Stargrazing‘ off-peak campaign launch, showcasing the nation’s world-class cuisine and stargazing experiences in key markets.
The next major initiative will see a continuation of this successful content campaign to promote New Zealand as a year-round destination, aiming to boost arrivals for the 2025 off-peak season.
Tourism New Zealand’s strategy plans to lift tourism by NZD$5 billion (around AUD$4.5 billion) and double exports by 2028 with all NZ visitors to be “high-quality tourists by 2030“.
For more info, head to traveltrade.newzealand.com
