14 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1277 views
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston announced that Great South will receive $393,000 to launch a campaign promoting the Southern Way and the region's hospitality to international visitors. The investment aims to showcase the lower South Island's unique experiences, wild beauty, rich flavors, and warm hospitality to new audiences. Led by Great South and regional partners, the campaign will target Australian travelers, particularly those from the Gold Coast, encouraging them to explore iconic destinations like Milford Sound, the Catlins coastline, and Dunedin, while highlighting the region's local events and genuine southern hospitality.
14 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1281 views
RotoruaNZ will receive over $4.5 million for two campaigns promoting the region's geothermal wonders, Māori culture, and hospitality to international visitors. The "North Island x Ctrip" campaign targets travelers from China, Hong Kong, Japan, and South Korea, while the "Kiwi North" campaign focuses on attracting visitors from Australia's eastern seaboard. These initiatives aim to showcase the diverse experiences across the North Island, support local businesses, and enhance the region's reputation as a must-visit destination, funded by the Regional Tourism Boost as part of the Government's Major Events and Tourism Package.
14 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1317 views
The Government's Regional Tourism Boost will invest $5.9 million to attract more international visitors to regional New Zealand in 2026, aiming to showcase diverse experiences and boost regional economies. Three Regional Tourism Organisations will launch campaigns targeting visitors from Australia and East Asia, featuring tailored offers and fresh itineraries to highlight unique attractions. The campaigns will focus on promoting regional hospitality, encouraging longer stays, and fostering lasting connections with international travelers, as part of a broader effort to support New Zealand's tourism industry.
13 Nov 2025
12 months ago
2355 views
Tourism Minister Louise Upston is pleased with the growth in New Zealand's overseas visitor numbers, particularly from Australia, which saw a 12% increase in arrivals in September 2025 compared to the previous year. Overall, New Zealand welcomed 248,600 international visitors in September 2025, with significant increases also seen from the United States, United Kingdom, and Japan. The government's efforts to attract more international visitors and boost the tourism industry are reflected in the record-high arrivals in Queenstown and Christchurch, as well as the initiatives such as the Tourism Boost package and the $70 million events and tourism investment package.
01 Nov 2025
1 year ago
1226 views
The Government is funding the completion of Te Ara Mangawhero and Te Hangāruru trails, connecting them to create the Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono cycle journey, aiming to attract more visitors to the Ruapehu region and boost the Central North Island economy. These trails are crucial for completing the full 231km journey from Mount Ruapehu to the Tasman Sea, with only one section left to finish. The project, led by various trusts and organizations, emphasizes partnership, cultural significance, and environmental sustainability, with completion expected by early 2027 through funding from the International Visitor Levy and the Major Events and Tourism Package.
29 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1271 views
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston is excited about Carnival Adventure's return to homeporting in Auckland for the 2027 winter season, marking the first ship to do so since 2023. This move signifies confidence in New Zealand's tourism sector, bringing more visitors, jobs, and opportunities for local businesses. The Government's support for cruise tourism, including infrastructure development and regulatory clarity, demonstrates a commitment to fostering the sector's growth and ensuring New Zealand remains open for business.
22 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1428 views
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston is pleased with the start of New Zealand's cruise season, expecting 177,000 visitors from nearly 40 ships for the 2025-2026 season. Efforts have been made to address operational concerns of cruise operators, including managing biofouling, clarifying regulatory costs, and streamlining infrastructure approvals. Upston is leading initiatives to support innovation and growth in the cruise sector, aiming to maximize its economic impact and maintain positive relationships with international cruise lines.
12 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1335 views
The Government is investing $1.6 million to repair and reopen Tasman’s Great Taste Cycle Trail, damaged by recent storms, aiming to boost tourism and support local businesses. The funding will address flood and wind damage by repairing sections, replacing infrastructure, and creating alternative routes. Reopening the trail will benefit the Nelson-Tasman region, reconnect communities, and provide opportunities for locals and visitors to enjoy the outdoors.
24 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2261 views
The 'Everyone Must Go' campaign in New Zealand exceeded expectations, bringing in over 7,981 additional visitors and generating significant attention on both sides of the Tasman. Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston highlights the campaign's success in boosting regional economies and tourism operators through collaboration between the sector and government. The campaign's strong results led to further investment, showcasing the positive impact of targeted marketing efforts on driving economic growth and supporting the tourism industry.