Sightseeing Beats Livestock as the Country’s Top Revenue Source: 4 Key Reasons New Zealand Attracts Tourists

▲ A well-known tourist spot in New Zealand, Scorching Bay (Photo / Wikipedia)

By Rita

According to a recentLonely Planet website report,the influx of tourists to New Zealand each year has made tourism the country’s largest source of income, surpassing the livestock industry many people typically associate with the nation.

The Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA) estimates that the summer tourist influx generates around US$13.5 billion in revenue, a figure that includes what travelers spend in the country and their airfare. Meanwhile, the closely following livestock industry brings in US$13 billion, with products including milk powder, butter, cheese, and more.

Association President Chris Roberts remains optimistic about next year’s performance, stating that “new flight services, the weaker New Zealand dollar, relatively low fuel costs, and marketing activities” are the four key factors driving continued growth in New Zealand tourism.

And New Zealand is far from satisfied — the report notes that the country aims to reach US$41 billion in tourism revenue by 2025.