The New Zealand Government has committed an additional $3 million in funding from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy to attract more business events to the country, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston confirmed.
This new funding initiative builds on recent Tourism Boost measures, which include a new promotional campaign targeting Australia and a regional tourism fund. “This is another significant step in bolstering New Zealand’s appeal to international business events,” Upston said.
Business event participants typically spend $175 more per day than leisure tourists, and they tend to travel during the off-peak months from March to November. This makes them a valuable target for New Zealand’s tourism sector, especially in the quieter months. The additional funding will enable Tourism New Zealand to increase its conference bidding efforts from 90 to 110 proposals annually, attract high-value incentive programs, and enhance the country’s visibility at major international trade events.
The aim is to secure business events that will generate over $30 million in additional revenue for the national economy. “This is a prime opportunity to showcase New Zealand’s modern conference facilities, top-tier hotels, and unique experiences,” Upston noted. “We want to position New Zealand as a premier destination for international business gatherings.”
The funding will be available to a wide range of organizations, including universities, to bid for hosting international conferences in New Zealand. It will also support efforts to attract high-value incentive travel business.
This initiative is part of the broader Tourism Boost package, a collaborative effort between the Government and industry stakeholders to drive immediate tourism growth, stimulate exports, and support overall economic expansion.
Minister Upston’s message is clear: “New Zealand is open for business, and we are eager to welcome more business visitors in the near future.”
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