New Zealand is set to increase its International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy to NZ$100 (£47.20) from October 1, almost tripling the previous fee of NZ$35 (£16.52). This move joins a growing global trend of destinations implementing tourist charges to manage tourism and protect their environment.
While New Zealand first introduced the levy in July 2019, the government cites the need to ensure visitors contribute to public services and high-quality experiences during their stay as the reason for the hike. However, the Tourism Industry Association expresses concerns that the higher fee could deter tourists, potentially hindering the country’s tourism recovery, which is already lagging behind other nations.
New Zealand is not alone in its approach. Venice, Italy, recently implemented a €5 (£4.21) tourist tax alongside restrictions on tour groups. This follows concerns about the impact of overtourism on the historic city, which attracts millions of visitors annually.
Bhutan has had a tourist tax in place since 1974, requiring a hefty $100 per day for adult visitors. Earlier this year, Bali introduced a 150,000 rupiah fee (£7.70) to help protect the island’s culture and environment.
The implementation of tourist taxes raises questions about their effectiveness in managing tourism and their potential impact on visitor numbers and a destination’s competitiveness in the tourism market. As more destinations consider similar measures, it remains to be seen how these policies will shape the future of travel.
