New Zealand’s tourism rebound is picking up speed, with international visitor arrivals in August up 7.5% on last year and confidence rising across the sector.

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says the lift shows the country is on track to return to pre-pandemic levels.

“International tourism, as New Zealand’s second highest export earner, is a key part of our economic recovery,” she says.

The latest data from Statistics New Zealand recorded 230,300 overseas visitors in August.

Australia accounted for 52%, China 9%, and the United States 5%.

“We are now sitting at 88% of December 2019 visitor numbers,” Upston said.

“More visitors mean more full tables in restaurants, more hotel bookings, more people visiting our regions and attractions, and more jobs created across the country.”

A Tourism Industry Association survey shows 86% of tourism businesses feel confident about the year ahead, up 11% on last year.

That confidence is also flowing through to regional destinations like the Hibiscus Coast, where accommodation providers, cafés, and attractions are gearing up for a busy summer as international arrivals pick up.

The Government says it will continue to invest in initiatives that boost demand and keep New Zealand high on the list for travellers planning their next holiday.

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