Tourism generates $44 billion for New Zealand economy

Tourism Industry Aotearoa has advised that figures released last week by Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) show that 303,420 New Zealanders are directly or indirectly employed by the visitor economy.

The Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) reiterates the important role of tourism as a major contributor to the New Zealand economy, generating $44.4 billion from visitor spending for the year to March 2024 right across the country.    

Tourism Industry Aotearoa Chief Executive Rebecca Ingram notes “the big news amongst the big numbers is that while Kiwis’ were spending less, international visitors were providing an important stimulus to our economy. It also shows that tourism businesses were hiring and creating positive employment opportunities.

“What the figures signify is the individual efforts of many businesses and people across our country, their drive to deliver manaakitanga, and how their hard work bears fruit for the benefit of all of New Zealand.”  

The results follow a flurry of positive tourism announcements made by the Government this month aimed at supporting the industry’s ongoing growth and conservation efforts. Ingram added “It is an exciting time for the sector, and we look forward to continuing to work alongside the Minister for Tourism and Hospitality as she progresses her Tourism Boost plans.

“Our members are ready to provide memorable experiences across the country. New world-class conference centres in Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington provide vibrant infrastructure and investment in hotels provides real potential for growth – especially as we head into the Autumn and Winter periods.”  

Looking at the drop in domestic spend, Ingram notes that the data coincides with the first European summer after borders fully opened, which saw many Kiwi’s head offshore to visit families and friends.

Those that remained went on holiday but planned shorter stays and managed their money closely.

Ingram says that the TSA data provides the most comprehensive view of the tourism industry performance sharing “the data is hugely valuable, and we would love to see this released within six months of the reporting period so its insights can be of maximum benefit for the industry and government as it looks to boost the industry.” 

Visit www.tia.org.nz for more information 

Image. Roys Peak Track Wanaka