TRAVEL and tourism players in New Zealand have expressed surprise and unhappiness over a new border levy announced yesterday as part of the government’s new budget.
When implemented next January, tourists to New Zealand can expect to pay an extra NZ$16 (US$11.80) when arriving and another NZ$6 on departure.
The New Zealand Herald quoted primary industries minister Nathan Guy as saying that the government spends NZ$100 million a year on border clearance for passengers and crew, a sum it wants footed by travellers rather than taxpayers.
Combined with existing charges, travellers to New Zealand should expect to pay NZ$36 in charges. This is still lower than Australia’s A$55 (US$43.50) passenger fees and the UK’s 71 pounds (US$111.30).
The industry and members of public can start offering feedback on the levy starting in June, said the same New Zealand Herald report.
