ITC Industry News Bulletin #23

In this week’s industry news, the border levy fees are set, spring attracts high numbers of international visitors and Fullers is investing in two new ferries, plus much more.
TOP STORIES
Level of a new international ‘travel tax’ set
Despite opposition from several industry leaders, including the Tourism Industry Association (TIA), the government is pushing ahead with the ‘travel tax’. New border fees will be charged from 1 January 2016, it was announced last week.
The fee is $21.57 including GST for air travellers (return trip) and $26.22 for those arriving by cruise ship, boat or private plane.
Minister for Primary Industries, Nathan Guy, told Radio New Zealand that the fees are in response to the increased number of arriving and departing travellers.
“All travellers are a risk as they could inadvertently carry ‘hitchhiker’ pests or prohibited items with them. The levy will allow border activities to respond to future demand and create a more sustainable platform for border risk management services,” Mr Guy said.
The TIA expressed disappointment with the decision in a press release published late last week.
September arrivals drive shoulder season growth
Spring is proving to be a popular season for tourism. Visitors are making the most of New Zealand before the summer madness hits, with thousands of tourists having enjoyed our country in September.
Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive Kevin Bowler said it’s great to see international travellers visiting during the shoulder season. Not only does this have a positive impact on the tourism industry as a whole, it’s also good for visitor experience.
“The benefits of shoulder season travel are numerous – with more accommodation available, prices often more affordable and tourism attractions generally less busy than at peak times,” Mr Bowler said.
He added that Tourism New Zealand has actively promoted shoulder season travel to international markets, particularly Australia. This strategy seems to be working well – Australian arrivals were up 14.7 per cent in September.
IN BRIEF
Maximising the potential of domestic tourism travel
A ‘Domestic Tourism Working Group’ has been formed to actively promote domestic tourism within New Zealand. The group will undertake research and take decisive action to boost domestic tourism ahead of 2025. Read more.
Fullers to spend $16m on new ferries
Two new ferries are set to join the Fullers fleet, the first in 2016 and the second in 2017. Both new boats are being constructed by New Zealand builders Q-West and are intended for the Auckland-Waiheke route. Read more.
Shoulder season cycling set to soar
Tourism New Zealand has published six new videos promoting some of the country’s most beautiful cycle trails. The new clips are expected to attract cycling enthusiasts during the shoulder season. Read more.
New Zealand ranked third most creative country in the world
According to research by the Martin Prosperity Institute, New Zealand is the third most creative country in the world, behind only the USA and Australia. We have moved forward three places since the last index, which was released in 2011. Read more.
Aussie Bachelorette finds love in New Zealand
The final episode of Australia’s The Bachelorette will be filmed in Auckland and Rotorua. Tourism New Zealand General Manager – Australia, Tony Saunders, sees this as an excellent promotional opportunity for New Zealand. “We’re confident the final episode will inspire viewers to consider what New Zealand has to offer and make the short trip across the Tasman,” Mr Saunders said. Read more.
Posted in News | Tagged Border Levy, Cycling, Domestic Tourism, Fullers, New Zealand Tourism, Spring, Tourism Industry Association | Leave a reply