Stats NZ data released today shows 288,500 international visitors arrived in New Zealand in April 2026, an 8% increase on the same period last year and equivalent to 94% of pre-pandemic levels.
It also reported record visitor numbers from the United States (25,800, up 14% on the same period last year), Australia (138,000, up 4%), and India (8,000, up 17%).
Visitor numbers from China also climbed to 32,500, a 52% increase compared with the same period last year.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says the latest figures show tourism is continuing its positive trajectory.
She said the continued growth in the sector, which is New Zealand’s second-largest export earner, demonstrates that the government’s efforts to support tourism are paying off.
“Tourism is a cornerstone of the government’s push for economic growth,” Upston said.
“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.”
Upston described the continuous growth as encouraging, particularly given it comes amid conflict in the Middle East and related pressures on global fuel supply.
“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.”