06 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1160 views
New Zealand is excited to welcome the Michelin Guide for the first time, showcasing the country's food and wine to an international audience and expecting an increase in visitor numbers and economic growth, according to Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston. Michelin Guide inspectors are already dining anonymously in top New Zealand restaurants, with the first selections and potential star ratings expected next year. The arrival of Michelin is seen as a prestigious accolade that will boost tourism, with an estimated 36,000 more international visitors expected and a focus on promoting New Zealand's culinary excellence on a global stage.
29 Oct 2025
12 months ago
1214 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.
17 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1335 views
Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced the removal of Fale Andrew Lesa as a Justice of the Peace and Visiting Justice due to concerns about his misrepresentation of qualifications and experience. Despite Mr. Lesa's direct communication, he failed to provide a satisfactory explanation for his actions. McKee emphasized the importance of integrity and honesty for individuals in such roles, leading to the recommendation and subsequent removal of Mr. Lesa from office.
13 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1269 views
The Government celebrates a 7.5% increase in international visitor arrivals in August, signaling a positive trend for the tourism industry's recovery post-COVID. Minister Louise Upston emphasizes the economic importance of tourism as New Zealand's second highest export earner. The Tourism Industry Association survey indicates an 86% confidence level among tourism organizations for the upcoming year, reflecting the industry's optimism and the Government's investments to promote New Zealand as a top destination.
29 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1268 views
Applications are open for the Parent Boost Visitor Visa in New Zealand, allowing parents of citizens and residents to visit for up to five years, meeting health, financial, and insurance requirements. The visa aims to balance the desires of migrants with parents overseas for longer visits while protecting public services. Additionally, initiatives like smart skilled migrant residency pathways are part of efforts to attract talent, support businesses, and boost the economy.
02 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1555 views
Fresh data released today indicates that international visitor arrivals and spending are on the rise, boosting New Zealand's tourism sector and economy, as highlighted by Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston. The year ending June 2025 saw international tourism contribute $12.1 billion to the economy, a 4.3% increase from the previous year, with a 5% rise in visitor arrivals totaling 3.38 million. Despite positive growth, Upston emphasizes the need for continued efforts to further enhance the tourism sector, referencing initiatives like the Tourism Growth Roadmap aimed at doubling tourism exports by 2034.
31 Jul 2025
1 year ago
1835 views
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka highlights the importance of eradicating invasive weeds to benefit tourism and rural businesses in New Zealand. The government is investing in early detection technology and allocating funds from the International Visitor Levy to protect iconic landscapes like Abel Tasman, Aoraki/Mt Cook, and Tongariro. Additional funding is directed towards combating wilding pines and other significant weeds, aiming to safeguard the environment, economy, and biodiversity of the country.
24 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2066 views
A new digital model of care for heart failure in Hawke’s Bay is improving patient outcomes by offering faster treatment and reducing hospital visits. The remote patient monitoring pathway allows for tailored, home-based care with medication adjustments made from home. Results show significant improvements, including zero hospital readmissions within 30 days, improved appointment attendance, and faster medication titration, leading to increased capacity for clinical teams and quicker access to care for patients.
24 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2222 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.
10 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2017 views
A significant boost in the number of people booking bednights along the country’s Great Walks is a good sign for conservation tourism and local businesses, Conservation Minister Tama Potaka says. Opening day bookings for each of the Great Walks were up by over 10,000 bednights compared to last year, totalling more than 140,000 bednights and bringing in more than $9 million to the Department of Conservation - Te Papa Atawhai, says Mr Potaka. “Booking system upgrades - including a new online lobby - successfully processed a peak of nearly 12,000 people waiting to book the Milford when it opened on 28 May in an hour.
10 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2069 views
A new cycle bridge on the West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail will bring more visitors to the region and boost the local economy. “I’m thrilled to be supporting the construction of the Totara River Rail Bridge, ensuring visitors can once again ride this popular trail from start to finish,” Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says. “The West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail is one of our Great Rides and attracts both international and domestic visitors alike, showcasing the stunning scenery of the West Coast.
19 Jun 2025
1 year ago
2228 views
A $750,000 investment into Iwi and community led biodiversity protection at Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park will benefit the environment and sustainable tourism, Conservation Minister Tama Potaka says. “We’re backing much-needed protection for one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most unique conservation parks and southern-most kauri habitats through work to eradicate destructive wild goats, contributing to a healthier and scenic visitor experience near Tauranga,” Mr Potaka says. “Browsing animals, like wild goats affect forest regeneration significantly, and are considered a potential spreader of kauri dieback through soil they carry.