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The Restaurant Association of New Zealand welcomes the Government’s announcement of an additional $13.5 million investment into international tourism marketing, aimed at attracting 72,000 more international visitors to New Zealand.
“This is a much-needed boost for our visitor economy,” says Restaurant Association CEO Marisa Bidois. “Every international visitor represents a potential diner, and increased footfall in our towns and cities flows directly through to hospitality businesses across the motu.”
The investment, which will be delivered through Tourism New Zealand and targeted at key markets including Australia, the United States, and China, is part of the Government’s Tourism Growth Roadmap, which aims to double the value of tourism exports by 2034.
“Our members have consistently told us that visitor numbers are critical to their recovery and long-term growth,” says Marisa. “This funding recognises the important role tourism plays not just in our hotels and attractions, but in our restaurants, cafés, bars and eateries – the places where visitors experience the heart of our culture and hospitality.”
The Association also welcomed confirmation that the funding will come from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy, noting that reinvestment of this nature into frontline visitor industries is essential for creating a sustainable tourism ecosystem.
“As we head into the next decade, it’s crucial that government and industry continue to work hand-in-hand to build a tourism sector that delivers value across all regions of New Zealand,” she says.
“With the right support, our hospitality businesses are ready to roll out the welcome mat.”
