The New Zealand government is nearly tripling the fee charged to most international tourists from $35 to $100 starting in October.
The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) was introduced in 2019 to fund public services and tourism sites.
National initially opposed the levy as “just another tax” but has since developed the idea. Tourism Minister Matt Doocey said international tourism is crucial to New Zealand’s economy.
Which comes with costs to local communities due to infrastructure pressure and higher maintenance costs across the conservation estate.
The higher fee would ensure visitors contribute to public services and high-value conservation projects.
Doocey said the increased fee would unlikely deter many people from coming to New Zealand. $100 generally makes up less than 3% of their total spending. The new IVL remains competitive with countries like Australia and the UK.
New Zealand is confident it will continue to be an attractive visitor destination. Conservation Minister Tama Potaka said taxpayers spend nearly $884 million annually on tourism and conservation.
The IVL is charged when applying for a visa or New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority to most tourists, working holidays, and some workers and students.
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