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New Zealand’s international visitor numbers are continuing to recover, with strong growth from China contributing to a lift in February arrivals.
Latest Stats NZ data shows more than 408,000 overseas visitors arrived in February 2026, an increase of more than 53,000 compared with the same month last year.
Growth tracking towards pre-pandemic levels
Annual arrivals reached 3.58 million in the year to February 2026, up 229,000 year-on-year and now sitting at 92 per cent of pre-COVID December 2019 levels.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says the figures highlight continued momentum across the sector.
“Our tourism sector continues its strong growth… with businesses, jobs and communities across the country feeling the benefits of increasing visitor numbers,” Upston says.
China and Australia lead gains
Australia remains New Zealand’s largest visitor market, with 1.54 million arrivals in the year to February, up 123,000 on the previous year.
China recorded particularly strong growth, with arrivals in February up 41,700 — a 214 per cent increase year-on-year — driven in part by Chinese New Year travel.
Changes allowing eligible Chinese and Pacific travellers to visit New Zealand from Australia using an NZeTA, rather than a visa, have also supported growth.
Tourism and economic impact
The increase in visitor numbers is contributing to broader economic activity, with tourism a key driver of business and employment across regions.
“More international visitors mean more customers for our businesses and ultimately more jobs,” Upston says.
Outlook
While recovery remains on track, the Government says global factors, including fuel price pressures, will continue to be monitored.
Officials say maintaining strong international demand will be key to supporting ongoing growth in New Zealand’s visitor economy.
