New Zealand is set to introduce new charges for international visitors accessing some of its most iconic natural attractions, including Cathedral Cove, Tongariro Crossing, Milford Track, and Aoraki Mount Cook. Beginning in 2027, foreign tourists will be required to pay between NZ$20 and NZ$40 (roughly $12–$24 USD) per site. The move is aimed at raising funds to support conservation and sustainable site management.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the initiative is designed to protect New Zealand's treasured landscapes, which draw millions of visitors annually. "It’s entirely fair that those who enjoy these natural wonders also contribute to their preservation," he said. The new fee structure will apply exclusively to non-residents, while New Zealand citizens and permanent residents will be exempt. The tourist tax proposal comes amid rising concerns over the impact of mass tourism on fragile ecosystems. Tourism Minister Matt Doocey stressed that the financial burden on local communities and infrastructure was significant, and that the new levy would directly fund environmental protection. “This is not about discouraging visitors,” said Doocey. “It’s about ensuring they’re part of the solution when it comes to protecting the places they love to visit.”
Since 2019, New Zealand has required non-resident travellers to pay an entry fee, which was tripled in 2024. The upcoming site-specific charges are the latest attempt to secure sustainable funding as visitor numbers rebound post-pandemic. While many New Zealanders support the measure, viewing it as a responsible step toward sustainable tourism, the tourism industry has voiced concern. Industry leaders fear that layering fees onto existing costs could portray New Zealand as an expensive and less accessible destination, especially for long-haul travellers. The nation’s tourism sector is still recovering from the pandemic and worries that additional levies could hamper its progress.
Despite the criticism, the government remains firm in its belief that the fees will not significantly impact tourism inflows. Officials argue that most international travellers would be willing to pay modest fees in exchange for access to pristine, well-maintained environments. The collected revenue will be ring-fenced for conservation projects and infrastructure upgrades at the affected sites. Historically, such efforts have relied on public funding and private donations. With tourist numbers rising, the government is turning to a user-pays model to maintain quality and sustainability. The legislation is expected to go to a parliamentary vote in the coming months. The initiative signals a broader shift towards managing overtourism through targeted funding mechanisms. Similar models are already in place in countries such as Bhutan and Iceland, where visitor fees support preservation efforts.
