Stats NZ says tourism spending hit $46.6 billion in the year to March 2025.

The Tourism Satellite Account shows total tourism expenditure rose $1.5 billion, or 3.3 percent, from March 2024.

Overseas visitor expenditure rose $1.2 billion, or 7 percent, to $18.1 billion.

Overseas visitor arrivals rose 4.3 percent to 3,320,687 people.

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said, “According to this data, total tourism employment increased 2.8 per cent (8,874 people) to 327,888 people.”

“This means that 1 in 9 people are now employed in the tourism and hospitality industries, showing the importance our Government’s commitment to growing tourism has to employment growth across New Zealand.

“Tourism contributes 7.7 percent of GDP – and continues to be our second highest export.

“Whether it’s New Zealand’s natural beauty, our warm hospitality or our world-class experiences, the continued growth in tourism spending shows that people see real value in coming here – and they want to stay longer and explore more.

“These results highlight exactly why the Government is focused on growing our tourism and hospitality sector. We’ve introduced a $70 million Major Events and Tourism Package, allowed more people to visit New Zealand on an NZeTA rather than needing a visitor visa and invested in attracting more international visitors.

“Increased visitor spending flows directly into our regions, supports local jobs, and creates opportunities for communities and businesses up and down the country.”

“The strength of our tourism industry is clear to see – tourism is a key part of our plan to fix the basics and build the future. New Zealand is open for business and international visitors are returning to our shores, giving a major boost to tourism and hospitality,” Upston said.

Get the Hibiscus Coast headlines first.

Corrections, tips, or photos, [email protected]