New Zealand triples the entry fee for tourists
Published: Tuesday, Sep 3rd 2024, 06:00
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A dream trip to New Zealand is also becoming more expensive for German tourists: the government of the Pacific state has announced that it will almost triple the tourist fee for vacationers from most countries in the world. Instead of the current 35 New Zealand dollars (20 euros), the "International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy" (IVL) will cost 100 New Zealand dollars (56 euros) from October 1.
The amount is paid online in advance when applying for the NZeTA electronic entry permit. German, Austrian and Swiss citizens do not require a visa if they wish to stay in the country for a maximum of three months. Anyone wishing to stay longer must enter the country with a visitor visa. The costs for this will also increase significantly from next month.
Criticism from the tourism industry
"International tourism plays a hugely important role in New Zealand's economy," said Tourism Minister Matt Doocey. However, it also comes at a high cost to local communities, "including additional pressure on regional infrastructure and higher maintenance and upkeep costs in our conservation areas". He is confident that his country will continue to be seen as an attractive destination by many people around the world.
Critics doubt this. The Tourism Industry Association (TIA) warned that New Zealand had already been struggling to boost tourism since the end of the coronavirus pandemic and was lagging behind the rest of the world. "This will now further impact our global competitiveness," said Managing Director Rebecca Ingram. The higher fee is likely to result in tens of thousands fewer holidaymakers each year.
New Zealand, which consists of two main islands, is a dream destination for many people around the world. In addition to untouched nature, huge glaciers, fjords and volcanoes, the country also attracts visitors with metropolitan cities such as Auckland and beautiful beaches.
©Keystone/SDA
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