The New Zealand Labour Party has stated that they would introduce the tax by the end of their first term if they got into power.
The proposal will create a “Tourism and Conservation Infrastructure Fund” which will invest $ 75 million back into the tourism economy.
This will be funded by a $ 25 entry fee for travellers entering the country.
However, with tourists already charged $ 22, this is almost doubling the price that is put to holidaymakers.
The $ 22 fee was added in 2015, broken down by $ 16 to enter and $ 6 to leave.
Kris Faafoi, the Labour’s tourism spokesperson, commented on the additional $ 25 fee.
She stated: “It’s only fair that the cost of these important projects is recouped from the international visitors that enjoy them.
“The Tourism and Conservation Infrastructure Fund will ensure New Zealand has the infrastructure and attractions needed to support tourism, and that our natural treasures that bring so many visitors here are protected and enhanced for future generations.”
It has already been met with disdain by other political parties who think it will be too much for travellers and would slow down the economy.
A recent survey by The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIW) found that many travellers felt it was already very expensive to visit New Zealand.
Of the 27,000 overseas visitors surveyed, a quarter stated that food and drink were too expensive.
MBIE’s tourism spokesman Paul Stocks stated: “We don’t want to get a reputation as being too expensive to come to.
“We’ve seen a bit of a spike in demand and would expect that to smooth out as new supply comes on stream.”
