The Government says a new $3 million fund from the International Conservation and Tourism Visitor Levy will be used to attract more international visitors to regional destinations this autumn and winter.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister, Louise Upston said the Government has a clear priority to unleash economic growth and get visitor numbers back to 2019 levels.
“The Regional Tourism Boost contestable fund will open at the end of February for activity in the April to July period,” said Ms Upston.
Speaking to the Regional Tourism New Zealand members’ meeting in Auckland, Minister Upston said collaboration between tourism organisations would be essential. Regions applying would also need to promote travel opportunities outside main tourism hotspots, she said.
“I expect regions to join up to accelerate work to promote their wider region, so visitors have opportunities to explore multiple parts of our wonderful country.”
“Quality is also part of the process. Regions will demonstrate they have the capacity to host an increased number of visitors, ensuring a smooth and special experience once they arrive.
“This initiative is another push in our Tourism Boost, developed by the Government in partnership with industry to support immediate growth in visitor numbers, drive export activity and deliver economic growth.
“Tourism is a crucial part of our focus on economic growth, with domestic and international tourism expenditure at almost $38 billion and supporting nearly 200,000 jobs.
“We’re ramping up marketing activity and this fund, plus my recent announcement for additional Australia campaign activity, will start to give tourism the boost it needs.
“We know it will be supported by New Zealanders – 93 per cent of New Zealanders surveyed last year agreed that tourism is good for the country.
“This is a year of opportunity. 2025 is our chance to reinforce the value of tourism to a humming, vibrant country, where we welcome anyone, from anywhere, anytime,” Minister Upston said.
