New Zealand tourism arrivals surpass 2019 levels in July

New Zealand's international tourism sector has shown significant growth, with July 2026 visitor arrivals reaching 256,600. This figure represents an 8.5 percent increase compared to July 2025 and has surpassed levels recorded in July 2019.

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston noted that the momentum in international tourism is driving economic growth across the country. In the year leading up to July, New Zealand welcomed 3.69 million arrivals, a 9 percent increase over the previous year. This growth aligns with the government's objective to double the value of tourism exports by 2034.

Key international markets contributed to the increase. Australia remains the largest visitor market, with arrivals rising 6 percent to 134,900 in July. Additionally, visitor numbers from China increased by 25 percent compared to July 2025, while arrivals from the United States grew by 12 percent.