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The Government has welcomed new data showing continued growth in New Zealand’s tourism sector, with total expenditure reaching $46.6 billion in the year to March 2025.
The Tourism Satellite Account, released by Stats NZ on Tuesday, March 3, shows tourism expenditure increased by $1.5 billion, or 3.3 per cent, compared with the previous year.
Overseas visitor expenditure rose by $1.2 billion, or 7 per cent, to $18.1 billion. International arrivals increased 4.3 per cent to 3,320,687 visitors.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says employment has also grown.
“According to this data, total tourism employment increased 2.8 per cent, or 8,874 people, to 327,888 people.
“This means that one in nine people are now employed in the tourism and hospitality industries, showing the importance of tourism to employment growth across New Zealand.
“Tourism contributes 7.7 per cent of GDP and continues to be our second highest export.”
Upston says the results highlight the value of the sector to regional economies.
“Increased visitor spending flows directly into our regions, supports local jobs and creates opportunities for communities and businesses across the country.”
The Government has introduced a $70 million Major Events and Tourism Package and made changes to visitor settings, including expanding eligibility for travel on an NZeTA.
