August 3, 2025 | 03:07 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - New Zealand has introduced plans to charge foreign tourists visiting popular destinations. Visitors will pay a fee between NZ$ 20-40 or approximately Rp194,000-390,000 to access high-traffic attractions.
The sites subject to the levy include Milford Track, Mount Cook, and Cathedral Cove. These places, which have seen a surge in foreign tourists, will serve as a pilot project for this levy. Citing Travel and Tour World, this levy is implemented as part of the government's efforts to recover from the recent economic recession and promote sustainable tourism.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, who announced the levy on Saturday, August 2, 2025, said the move aims to ensure that foreign tourists contribute to the preservation and conservation of the country's natural heritage.
Protecting Conservation Sites
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the conservation sites set to impose the fee are "truly special" for the people of New Zealand and therefore must be protected. According to him, the charges will provide more support to the Department of Conservation.
"But I have heard many times from friends visiting from overseas their shock that they can visit some of the most beautiful places in the world for free," he said, as quoted from 1News.
Luxon also mentioned that his government will amend the Conservation Act to open up more economic activities through concessions—such as tourism, agriculture, and infrastructure—at feasible locations. "That means more certainty for businesses, less bureaucracy, and much faster decisions, so the businesses that should be operating can get up and running," he explained.
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka stated that foreign tourists made up 80 percent of all visitors to these destinations. He estimated that the charges could generate revenue of up to NZ$62 million or Rp601 billion per year. The proceeds will be directly reinvested in the same area. “Tourists make a massive contribution to our economy, and no one wants that to change," Potaka said.
Nature Destinations Affected by the Charges
Three destinations to be affected by this policy are well-known among wilderness adventurers. Milford Track is a famous hiking trail known for its spectacular views and pristine wilderness. Meanwhile, Mount Cook is known as the highest mountain in New Zealand. The mountain is renowned for its stunning views and mountain activities.
Tongariro Crossing is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers one of the most popular one-day hiking trails in the country. Cathedral Cove, located in the Coromandel Peninsula, is known for its natural rock arches and crystal-clear water.
These sites, along with other iconic locations, receive many foreign visitors—many of whom are unaware that they are exploring some of the most beautiful and ecologically vital areas in the world. The charges only apply to foreign tourists, while New Zealand residents are exempt from this fee.
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