20th February 2025
We welcome the Government’s investment in regional tourism and the focus on attracting more international visitors, particularly in the winter months when the hospitality sector is traditionally quieter. Tourism is a vital driver of economic activity, and hospitality businesses are a key part of the visitor experience, providing the food, drink, and service that shape how people remember New Zealand.
The announcement of funding through the International Visitor Levy (IVL) is also encouraging, as we have advocated for greater transparency on how these funds are allocated. Ensuring that this investment directly benefits tourism-related industries, including hospitality, will be critical to supporting the wider visitor economy.
“Our industry plays an essential role in delivering world-class experiences to international visitors, and it’s positive to see targeted efforts to boost regional tourism,” says Restaurant Association CEO Marisa Bidois. “We have called for more clarity on how the IVL is spent, and we’re pleased to see investment directed towards initiatives that can help drive visitor numbers. Ensuring hospitality businesses can thrive alongside these efforts is crucial, as dining and social experiences are a key part of what makes New Zealand an attractive destination.
“While the 12% increase in visitor numbers is encouraging between 2023 and 2024, arrivals are still 11% below 2019 levels. Continued investment in destination marketing, tourism infrastructure, and policies that support hospitality businesses will be essential to maximizing the impact of this initiative.”