The International Visitor Survey (IVS), released this week by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, reported that annual visitors spent $12.2 billion for the year-ending December 2024, up 23% 2023 figures.
The figures also confirmed continued growth in visitor arrivals, up 12%, with 3.31 million visitors coming to New Zealand during the year. Holiday arrivals were the largest visitor group, making up 49% of visitors, and spending $7.4 billion during the year up 5% year-on-year.
TIA Chief Executive, Rebecca Ingram, says it is encouraging to see both arrivals and spend on the rise. “Holiday makers tend to stay longer and spend more. What is really positive is that it is cafes, restaurants, retail stores, accommodation and transport provider’s that have benefited here – reinforcing just how important international arrivals are to our economy and vibrant communities around Aotearoa New Zealand.
Australia continues to be the largest visitor market, spending $3.5 billion during the year (up 3%), followed by Asia at $1.9 billion and the USA at $1.7 billion – up 21% on 2023 figures.
When adjusted for inflation, visitor spend equated to $9.9 billion – sitting at 86% of 2019 levels. This aligns with arrivals which sit at 85% of pre-COVID levels.
Ms Ingram notes there is scope for the industry to build on this growth. “There is no doubt that the Government’s recent announcements, aimed at boosting tourism growth, will significantly help the industry to realise its potential to contribute $55 billion a year by 2030. It’s an exciting time for the industry and we look forward to continuing to work with the Minister for Tourism and Hospitality progressing her plans.”
About the IVS
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) International Visitor Survey (IVS) for the year ending September 2024 reports on data gathered from travellers as they are leaving Aotearoa New Zealand. The survey has questions ranging from how much visitors spent, how long and where they stayed, to how they rated their experience, how they got around and why they chose to come here.
