Short answer: On 25 June 2026 the Government released New Zealand's Tourism Policy Statement, a long-term direction for tourism policy, investment and marketing that aims to double the 2023 value of tourism exports by 2034. For trade buyers, Explera DMC New Zealand reads the near-term signal as more regional marketing aimed at Australia, China and North America.
The statement was announced by Louise Upston, Minister for Tourism and Hospitality. The Government described tourism as the country's second largest export earner.
What did the Government announce?
- A Tourism Policy Statement. It sets out how central government, local government and industry will work together to set priorities, take action and respond to change.
- A long-term goal. The Government's ambition is to double the 2023 value of tourism exports by 2034.
- Regional Tourism Boost, round three. $5 million is available for campaigns to attract more international visitors to travel, stay and dine in New Zealand, from spring 2026 to early summer 2027.
- Priority markets. Round three prioritises Australia, China and North America.
- Where the money comes from. $2 million comes from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy, and $3 million is reallocated from the Major Events and Tourism Package announced in September 2025.
What does it mean for trade buyers?
- More regional promotion. The Government said the Regional Tourism Boost encourages visitors to go beyond the main centres and travel outside peak seasons. Expect regions to be more visible in Australia, China and North America.
- Regions outside the main routes. A programme that adds a region beyond Auckland, Rotorua and Queenstown can give clients more space and more choice of rooms.
- Shoulder seasons. Travel outside peak seasons is part of the aim. Spring and autumn programmes often have better hotel availability for groups.
- No change to entry rules. The statement sets direction. It does not change visa, NZeTA or levy settings, so clients follow the same rules as before.
How Explera DMC New Zealand can help
We plan programmes that include regions beyond the main routes and travel in the shoulder seasons. See our month-by-month selling guide, our entry requirements guide, our New Zealand destinations and group tours.
FAQ
What is the New Zealand Tourism Policy Statement? A statement released on 25 June 2026 that sets a long-term direction for tourism policy, investment, infrastructure and marketing.
What is its main goal? To double the 2023 value of tourism exports by 2034.
Which markets does the Regional Tourism Boost prioritise? Round three prioritises Australia, China and North America.
Does the statement change entry rules for visitors? No. It sets direction for policy and investment. It does not change visa, NZeTA or levy settings.
Sources
- Tourism Policy Statement sets sector direction, Hon Louise Upston, New Zealand Government, 25 June 2026
- New Zealand's Tourism Policy Statement, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE)
Talk to the trade desk
Explera DMC New Zealand trade desk — b2b@explera.co.nz, WhatsApp +66 93 656 8090, B2B portal b2b.expleradmc.com.
