New Zealand passes tourist tax legislation
The New Zealand government has passed legislation for a tourist tax which will be imposed on most international arrivals starting on July 1.
Most international visitors staying for less than one year will pay $35 under rules for the new International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).
The government expects the fee to bring in more than $450 million over five years.
It will be used to fund conservation efforts and improve tourism-related infrastructure.
Australians and Pacific Islanders are exempt from the fee.
The IVL legislation will also mandate digital processing of the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) from October 1.
"Around 1.5 million visitors come to New Zealand each year from 60 visa waiver countries. The NZeTA will provide us with more information about those travellers before they arrive here and brings New Zealand’s border in line with international best practice," said immigration minster Iain Lees-Galloway.
Although there is a lack of information in how it will be spent, the levy has gained backing from the tourism industry.
"At $35 that shouldn’t put people off from coming to New Zealand, so it’s a good idea to set it at that level, rather than any lower level," said Chris Roberts from Tourism Industry Aotearoa.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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