New Zealand introduces a tourist fee: how much you will have to pay to visit parks

The government of New Zealand has decided to impose a fee for foreign tourists to visit the most popular natural attractions. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon explained that this will help boost the country's economy.

In particular, foreign tourists will have to pay up to 40 New Zealand dollars to visit some sites. This money will go to the country's budget and be used to support tourist infrastructure. Luxon noted that foreigners should contribute to the preservation of New Zealand's nature, which is a national treasure.

'I have often heard from friends abroad how surprised they are that they can enter some of the most beautiful places in the world for free,' Luxon emphasized.

Tourism in New Zealand is an important sector of the economy that contributes to the country’s growth. In addition, the government plans to abolish the mandatory transit visa for Chinese citizens to attract even more tourists. The fee will only be charged at sites where foreign tourists make up more than 80% of visitors.

Local residents of New Zealand will still have free access to natural attractions as these places belong to the common heritage of the country.