International tourism nears full recovery
International tourism to New Zealand has nearly recovered to pre-pandemic levels, with visitor arrivals reaching 99% of August 2019 figures, driven by strong growth from key markets.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston announced that international visitor arrivals in August 2026 reached 99% of the 251,100 recorded in August 2019, just four months into the year and ahead of the peak summer season. The Minister highlighted that this progress aligns with the Government’s 2025 target to restore visitor numbers to at least 2019 levels by 2026, demonstrating the effectiveness of policy support for the sector.
Upston emphasized the economic significance of tourism, noting it is New Zealand’s second largest export earner and supports one in nine jobs either directly or indirectly. She stated that tourism growth translates to job creation, higher incomes, and broader opportunities for New Zealanders, underscoring the sector’s role in national economic development.
The latest data from Stats NZ revealed record arrivals from Australia, Taiwan, and Singapore in August 2026, reflecting targeted efforts by the Government, Tourism New Zealand, and industry stakeholders to expand key visitor markets. Arrivals from China surged by 32% compared to the previous August, while Australian visitors increased by 4.9%, reinforcing Australia’s position as the largest source market.
The report also highlighted growth from the United States, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Japan, demonstrating sustained demand from diverse international markets even during New Zealand’s typically quieter winter months. Upston expressed pride in New Zealand’s ability to attract visitors, emphasizing the broader benefits of tourism recovery for the country’s economy and communities.