Labour's plan for a $25 levy on overseas tourists arriving here has drawn criticism from the tourism industry, but Labour leader Jacinda Ardern says it exists in other countries, and is significantly more in places like the United Kingdom.
She says tourism numbers had "continued to boom" after a biosecurity levy was introduced by the National government several years ago.
The continuing rise in numbers meant a new levy was needed to provide the necessary infrastructure, Ms Ardern says.
"With this levy, it will enable us to invest heavily in tourism, double the rate for some funds we have now, and also for conservation."
