New Zealand is world-famous for its stunning landscapes, adventure tourism and clean-air experiences.
In the year ending December 2024 it received about 3.3 million international visitor arrivals, up 12 % from the year before.
Domestic tourism and overall tourism spending continue to rebound strongly.
Key stats: New Zealand Tourism
- 3.31 million international visitors in 2024 — New Zealand saw visitor numbers rise 12 % year-on-year.
- NZ$12.2 billion in international visitor spending in 2024 — an impressive 23 % jump from the prior year, showing strong recovery momentum.
- Total tourism expenditure reached NZ$44.4 billion in the year to March 2024, underlining how vital the sector is for the economy.
- Tourism contributed around NZ$28.7 billion (≈ 7.5% of GDP) — direct and indirect impacts included.
- Domestic tourism spend (NZ$27.5 billion) still remains a major pillar, complementing international flows.
- Median spend per international visitor rose to NZ$2,764 and daily spend to NZ$286 — visitors are spending more per trip.
- Australia remained the dominant market, contributing ~NZ$3.48 billion in visitor spend; the US and China also posted strong gains.
- Australians made up nearly 42% of all visitors, emphasising how New Zealand remains tied to its nearest neighbour’s travel patterns.
- International tourism is one of New Zealand’s top exports, ranking as the second highest-earning service export in 2024.
How Many Tourists Visit New Zealand Each Year?
Overseas visitor numbers rose to ~3.3 million for the year ending December 2024, up ~12 % from 2023.
- Year ended March 2024: total tourism expenditure NZD 44.4 billion (+14.6% vs previous year).
- International visitor spend in 2024: NZD 16.9 billion.
How Many Tourists Visit New Zealand Each Day?
With ~3.3 million international visitors annually, on average about ~9,000 overseas arrivals per day (3.3 m ÷ 365).
How Much Do Visitors Spend in New Zealand?
Tourism expenditure in New Zealand in the year ended March 2024 reached NZD 44.4 billion; international visitor spend was ~NZD 16.9 billion.
- Tourism’s direct and indirect contribution to GDP: NZD 28.7 billion (≈ 7.5% of GDP) for year ended March 2024.
- International visitor spending rose ~23% to NZD 12.2 billion in “2024 year” (data from IVS).
Which Countries Visit New Zealand the Most?
Australia remains the largest source market; China, India, USA, UK are among fast-growing markets.
| Country | Key insight |
|---|---|
| 🇦🇺 Australia | Largest share of arrivals; in year ending June 2025 Australians made up ~45-55% of visitors. |
| 🇨🇳 China | Visitor numbers improving; for year ending June 2025 China ~59% of 2019 level. |
| 🇮🇳 India | Among top five markets for 2024 year on visitor growth. |
| 🇺🇸 United States | Growing long-haul segment. |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | Among important European markets; for April 2023–Apr 2024 ~169,300 UK travellers. |
What Are the Most Visited Attractions in New Zealand?
New Zealand’s draw includes natural landscapes, adventure tourism, national parks, and film-locations.
- Fiordland / Milford Sound – One of the most iconic natural attractions.
- Rotorua & Bay of Plenty – Geothermal, Maori culture, family-friendly.
- Queenstown & Central Otago – Adventure tourism hub.
- Tongariro Alpine Crossing – Signature day-hike in the North Island.
- Abel Tasman National Park – Coastal tracks & sea-kayaking.
- Waitomo Caves – Glow-worm experience.
- Auckland / Sky Tower / Harbour – Major gateway city and cruise hub.
- Wellington / Te Papa & capital region – Cultural & political centre.
- Kaikōura – Whale-watching and marine eco-tourism.
- Bay of Islands – Historic and beach-holiday region.
When Is the Best Time to Visit New Zealand?
Tourism flows are somewhat seasonal, with peaks in the summer (Dec–Feb) and shoulder peaks in spring (Sep-Nov) and autumn (Mar–May).
| Season | Visitor Trend | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Dec–Feb) | High | Warm weather, outdoor activities |
| Autumn (Mar–May) | Moderate | Foliage colors, fewer crowds |
| Winter (Jun–Aug) | Moderate | Ski/hike season, fewer long-haul tourists |
| Spring (Sep–Nov) | Rising | Blossoms, new-season hikes |
What Are the Biggest Events Attracting Tourists to New Zealand?
Events and experiences help draw both domestic and international visitors, especially in off-peak months.
- Māori cultural festivals & regional events
- Adventure racing & outdoor film festivals
- Business-events / conventions – the business events sector is worth over NZD 287 million in 2024.
- Film tourism – e.g., Lord of the Rings locations draw global fans.
- Cruise ship season – Auckland, Wellington, and other ports uptake.
How Much Does Tourism Impact New Zealand’s Economy?
Tourism in New Zealand generated ~NZD 44.4 billion in expenditure (year ended March 2024), employing ~303,000 people, representing ~10.7% of all employment.
Which Regions in New Zealand Are Popular With Tourists?
Visitors spread across islands but key regions dominate.
- Auckland & Waitematā – International gateways, city stays
- Queenstown / Otago – Adventure & luxury travel
- Rotorua / Bay of Plenty – Culture, family tourism
- Wellington / Lower North Island – Politics & culture stops
- Fiordland / Southland – Iconic nature & wilderness
- Bay of Islands / Northland – Beach + historic tourism
FAQ – New Zealand Tourism Insights
How many international tourists visit New Zealand annually?
About 3.3 million international arrivals in the year ending December 2024.
Which country sends the most visitors?
Australia remains the largest source market (45–55% of international arrivals).
What’s the average length of stay?
For some markets like the UK the average stay was ~15 days during April 2023–April 2024.
What is the tourism spend in New Zealand?
Tourism expenditure hit NZD 44.4 billion for year ended March 2024; international visitor spend ~NZD 16.9 billion.
Why is New Zealand a popular destination?
Because of its mix of dramatic nature, adventure tourism, film-location appeal, and relatively safe, clean environment.
Sources
- Stats NZ — Visitor arrivals up in 2024 (3.3 million overseas visitors)
- Stats NZ – Tourism Satellite Account — Tourism Satellite Account: Year ended March 2024 (expenditure NZD 44.4 billion)
- Tourism New Zealand — International Visitor Spending increases by 23% to NZD 12.2 billion (year 2024)
- Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA) — Quick Facts & Figures – Year ended March 2024 (employment, GDP share)
- MBIE – International Visitor Survey (IVS) — IVS & tourism data releases (visitor behaviour, quarterly spend)
- Tourism New Zealand – Markets Overview — Market snapshots: UK, Germany, India etc.
- MBIE – Business Events Data — Tourism Growth Roadmap – business events market worth NZD 287 million in 2024
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