New Zealand is regarded as one of the most friendly, welcoming places on the planet. But the Prime Minister wants to change that.
Some of New Zealand’s most iconic natural attractions will soon begin charging an entry fee for foreign tourists.
It could cost up to NZ$40 to visit most popular attractions such as Milford Track and Mount Cook.
Foreign visitors should contribute to the upkeep of popular national parks, says Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.
The forecasted NZ$62 million in annual revenue raised would be invested into these locations, he said.
“I have heard many times from friends visiting from overseas their shock that they can visit some of the most beautiful places in the world for free,” Luxon said. Which sounds dubious as you are rarely charged to visit natural attractions anywhere in the world.
“It’s only fair that at these locations, foreign visitors make an additional contribution," Luxon adds.
Depending on the specific location, foreign tourists would be charged between NZ$20 and NZ$40 per person from next year.
The entry fee for foreigners will first be implemented at Cathedral Cove, Tongariro Crossing, Milford Track and Mount Cook (above).
Luxon said about 80% of visitors at these attractions are foreign tourists
“At the same time, there will be no charge for New Zealanders to access the conservation estate,” he added.
“It’s our collective inheritance and Kiwis shouldn’t have to pay to see it.”
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka told The Guardian that the revenue would ensure sustained investment in New Zealand’s tourism infrastructure: “Those fees could generate NZ$62m a year so we can keep investing in the sites that underpin so much of our tourism sector.”
The fee is part of a broader shift in conservation and land-use policy under Luxon's government.
Alongside the entry charges, new laws have been passed to fast-track approvals for mining and infrastructure projects, and the government is also easing restrictions on commercial activity in conservation areas.
Image: Mount Cook, New Zealand Trails
