14 Oct 2026
1 week ago
228 views
International visitor numbers to New Zealand in August 2026 reached 99% of pre-pandemic levels, signaling strong progress toward the government's goal of matching 2019 figures by year-end. Significant growth was seen particularly from China, Australia, and other key markets, reflecting successful government and industry efforts to boost tourism. As tourism is New Zealand’s second largest export earner and a major employer, this recovery supports economic growth, jobs, and opportunities for Kiwis.
12 Sep 2026
1 month ago
361 views
The Government is investing $835,000, funded by the International Visitor Levy, to enhance Kaikōura’s visitor facilities, especially for cruise arrivals, and improve public spaces for both tourists and locals. This investment aims to support tourism growth by creating a more welcoming experience, boosting the local economy, and addressing pressures on the small local community. By improving infrastructure in Kaikōura, the initiative seeks to increase visitor spending, job opportunities, and overall economic benefits for the region.
10 Sep 2026
1 month ago
394 views
Independent evaluations of three government-funded programmes—E Tū Whānau, Pasefika Proud, and the Ethnic Communities Violence Prevention programme—show positive changes in attitudes and behaviours related to family violence. The findings highlight that community-led, locally informed approaches that build on community strengths are most effective in preventing family violence. These results support the Government’s National Strategy, Te Aorerekura, emphasizing prevention and empowering communities to create safer families and whānau.
10 Sep 2026
1 month ago
429 views
The Government is investing $405,000 to upgrade visitor facilities at Horopito on the Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono Great Ride, addressing the current lack of infrastructure with new toilets, shuttle access, and parking. This project aims to enhance safety, accessibility, and visitor satisfaction, benefiting both locals and the over 67,000 annual visitors while encouraging longer stays in the region. The investment supports sustainable tourism growth by ensuring the area can accommodate increasing visitor numbers and boost the local economy.
09 Sep 2026
1 month ago
466 views
Ministers David Seymour and Louise Upston have announced the completion of the Ministry for Regulation’s Hospitality Sector Review, aiming to reduce red tape and simplify regulations to help hospitality businesses open and operate more easily. The review identified issues such as duplicated information requests, lengthy decision times, inefficient licensing processes, high fees, and disproportionate regulatory barriers, which have hindered the sector’s recovery post-Covid. Moving forward, the government will decide which recommendations to implement and develop a Hospitality Action Plan to coordinate efforts across agencies, supporting the $21.4 billion industry that employs over 193,000 people.
08 Sep 2026
1 month ago
416 views
Wills Month encourages New Zealanders to consider leaving charitable bequests as part of the largest intergenerational wealth transfer in the country’s history, estimated at $1.6 trillion by 2050. Research shows many Kiwis value generosity but few receive professional advice on charitable giving, highlighting an opportunity for collaboration between financial advisors and the charitable sector. Minister Louise Upston urges individuals to discuss charitable bequests with advisors to create lasting community legacies and emphasizes New Zealand’s strong tradition of giving, with charities receiving $5.16 billion in 2024/2025.
08 Sep 2026
1 month ago
488 views
The 2028 PSA Squash World Championships will be held in Auckland, supported by a $1 million investment from New Zealand's Major Events Fund, showcasing top international players at the New Zealand International Convention Centre. This prestigious event, occurring just before squash's Olympic debut at Los Angeles 2028, aims to boost the sport's profile, inspire local athletes, and enhance New Zealand's reputation as a host for major international sporting events. The championships are expected to attract visitors, stimulate economic activity, and create a lasting legacy for squash in New Zealand.
07 Sep 2026
1 month ago
521 views
The New Zealand Government is investing $5 million to support six regional tourism initiatives aimed at attracting international visitors during the quieter months of spring 2026 and early summer 2027. These campaigns target tourists from Australia, North America, and China, promoting regional food, wine, hospitality, and outdoor experiences to encourage longer stays and travel beyond main gateways. The funding is allocated to specific projects led by regional organizations to boost local economies and spread tourism benefits across the country.
03 Sep 2026
1 month ago
433 views
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston welcomes a new industry report outlining 48 practical recommendations to support New Zealand's hospitality sector, acknowledging progress made since the 2024 Hospitality Summit. The Government has collaborated closely with the sector through various initiatives and will develop a Hospitality Action Plan to coordinate priority efforts across multiple agencies and portfolios. This plan aims to remove growth barriers, support businesses and workers, and strengthen the sector’s contribution to the economy through ongoing partnership with industry stakeholders.
02 Sep 2026
1 month ago
470 views
Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay will host Australian Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell in Auckland for the annual Closer Economic Relations Trade Ministers meeting and discussions with trans-Tasman businesses to strengthen economic ties. In 2025, two-way trade between New Zealand and Australia reached $35 billion, with Australia being New Zealand's largest export destination and international visitor market. The visit will also include talks on tourism growth, Māori tourism, and regional economic development to enhance collaboration between the two countries.
02 Sep 2026
1 month ago
465 views
Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay will host Australian Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell in Auckland for the annual Closer Economic Relations Trade Ministers meeting and discussions with trans-Tasman businesses to strengthen the partnership. Their 2025 two-way trade reached $35 billion, with Australia as New Zealand’s largest export destination and visitor market, highlighting the importance of maintaining strong economic and tourism links. Minister Farrell will also meet with Tourism Minister Louise Upston and participate in a Bay of Islands program focused on Māori tourism and regional economic development.
01 Sep 2026
1 month ago
443 views
Disability Support Services legislation has passed its final reading in New Zealand Parliament, establishing a legal framework to improve support for disabled people and their families without changing current eligibility or entitlements. The legislation incorporates feedback from the disability community, clarifies the government's role in supporting families, ensures stronger consultation with disabled representatives, and aligns with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Enabling Good Lives principles. The government has also committed $2.1 billion in additional funding and plans further consultations on a carers’ package to enhance consistency, fairness, and sustainability in disability support.
01 Sep 2026
1 month ago
471 views
Disability Support Services legislation, reflecting input from the disability community, was passed to provide a clearer, stronger legal framework that supports disabled people and their families while emphasizing choice, safety, and dignity. The law mandates formal consultation with disabled representatives, aligns with UNCRPD and Enabling Good Lives principles, and maintains current eligibility and entitlements without introducing new income or asset tests. The government has committed $2.1 billion in additional funding, improved service consistency and sustainability, and plans further consultations on a carers’ package to enhance support.
01 Sep 2026
1 month ago
486 views
The Government is investing an additional $400,000, building on a prior $300,000, to repair the Hauraki Rail Trail after severe storm damage, ensuring it remains a key tourism asset supporting local jobs and economic growth. Funded by the International Visitor Levy and the New Zealand Cycle Trail Fund, with contributions from the Hauraki Rail Trail Charitable Trust, the repairs focus on damaged surfaces and structures, especially in the Karangahake Gorge. The trail attracts over 32,000 visitors annually, contributing about $12 million to the local economy, and its recovery is vital for sustaining regional tourism and associated businesses.
29 Aug 2026
1 month ago
499 views
Nearly 200,000 cruise ship passengers are expected to visit New Zealand this season, boosting regional tourism, jobs, and businesses, according to Tourism Minister Louise Upston. The government has collaborated closely with the cruise sector to enhance New Zealand's appeal as a must-dock destination, implementing practical measures and hosting industry forums to strengthen its global cruise position. These efforts, alongside infrastructure developments and policy support, aim to build a sustainable cruise industry and contribute to doubling the value of international tourism by 2034.