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Tourism Industry Aotearoa is also seeking consultation on the proposed Government IVL changes via a survey here and chief executive Rebecca Ingram highlights the importance of industry feedback in the consultation process.
“As a membership organisation, it’s very important that we gather up feedback from our members on any submission we make on their behalf. The tourism industry cares about the IVL and wants it to be spent in a way that’s transparent, solves problems and benefits New Zealand. With submissions due in one week, we’re working hard to ensure that we have a good base of views from our members,” she says.
TIA’s survey comes as a result of Government seeking public feedback on proposed changes to the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy. This initiative comes in response to concerns that the current levy amount is insufficient to address the costs associated with international tourism.
“Tourism is our second largest export earner and has an important role to play in growing our economy,” says Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Matt Doocey.
“My priorities for the sector are to grow the value of tourism, support regions to maximise the value of tourism, and support the tourism and hospitality workforce.”
He highlighted the appeal of New Zealand’s landscapes and safe, uncrowded locations as key factors drawing international visitors.
“The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy ensures visitors contribute towards the costs associated with providing and maintaining high quality visitor experiences, while reducing the costs of tourism and conservation for New Zealanders.”
The Government’s current consultation seeks feedback on whether to increase the IVL, by how much, and how the revenue should be invested.
“We want to hear from New Zealanders about what type of investments the government should be making to improve our tourism offerings while managing the impact of tourism on communities. Feedback will be used to develop a strategy for future IVL investments and funding., says Minister Doocey.
“The focus of the consultation is on the levy amount and revenue investment, not on who pays the IVL.
“When the IVL was established, the Government decided to collect the IVL via the immigration system. Who is liable to pay the IVL is linked to types of visas and the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority.”
He also emphasised the principle of free movement between Australia and New Zealand under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, which exempts Australian citizens and permanent residents from the IVL charge.
