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Changes that allow eligible visitors from China and the Pacific to travel to New Zealand from Australia with a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA), rather than a visa, are making a difference to New Zealand tourism.
Three months after the changes were introduced, a new survey shows being able to travel with an NZeTA was a deciding factor in people’s decisions to visit New Zealand. An overwhelming 85% of respondents, —including 85% of Chinese travellers and 82% of visitors from Pacific Island Forum countries — said they travelled to New Zealand specifically because the NZeTA option became available. The simplicity and speed of the process meant they could plan trips more spontaneously and confidently.
Director Visa (Border), Sarah Clifford, says this response shows the change is delivering exactly what it set out to achieve.
“Being able to travel with an NZeTA from Australia makes it easier and cheaper for eligible Chinese and Pacific travellers to choose New Zealand for their holiday, and we’re seeing that they’re doing just that,” she says.
“So far, since 3 November, we have received more than 47,000 NZeTA requests from China and Pacific nationals and more than 28,500 have already arrived in the country.”
“The survey showed 96% of Chinese and Pacific respondents were satisfied with the NZeTA process and found it simple and stress‑free to use” says Sarah Clifford.
“Travellers consistently described the NZeTA process as easy, convenient and fast. Most people received a decision within one to two days — often faster than they were expecting.”
“Tourism is a vital part of our economy, and the early results shows these changes are helping people choose New Zealand more often. It is a win for travellers and a win for our economy.”
