International visitor numbers continue to climb

New data out today shows tourism is continuing its positive trajectory, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says.

Stats NZ data out today shows 288,500 international visitors came to New Zealand in April 2026 – up 8 per cent on the same period last year, and 94 per cent of pre-pandemic levels.

It also reported a record number of visitors from the United States (25,800, up 14 per cent on the same time last year), Australia (138,000, up 4 per cent) and India (8,000, up 17 per cent).

Visitor numbers from China also reached 32,500, up 52 per cent compared to the same time last year.

The continued growth in the sector – New Zealand’s second-largest export earner – shows the Government’s work to back tourism is working, Louise Upston says.

“Tourism is a cornerstone of the Government’s push for economic growth. This sustained growth is great news for Kiwis – it represents business investment, jobs and incomes for New Zealanders, all while showing off our beautiful country that we are so proud of.

“It is particularly encouraging seeing such strong momentum from China, which is a really important market for New Zealand.

“This significant lift from China reflects growing demand and highlights the value of our targeted efforts to attract more international travellers including the visa-waiver trial for Chinese and Pacific travellers coming via Australia. We’re fixing the basics so the resilient, hard-working and ambitious tourism sector can build its future, delivering more economic growth to New Zealand in the process.

“This continued growth is encouraging, especially as it comes amidst the conflict in the Middle East and associated fuel supply pressures.

“We remain focused on strengthening performance across all our key markets. Growth doesn’t happen by accident – it’s down to ensuring settings are in place to help the sector fly.

“These latest figures show we are moving in the right direction.” ...