Tourism
Sharon McLennan: the future of voluntourism
As the tourism industry gets back into swing, volunteer tourism is re-emerging too. It's a multi-billion dollar industry, with millions of volunteers involved worldwide. But who stands to gain? Audio
North Canterbury tourist towns enjoy Christmas boom
Kaikōura and Hanmer Springs enjoyed a busy holiday period as tourists returned after more than two years of Covid-19 disruptions.
Infested cruise ship concerns spark biosecurity meeting
Biosecurity NZ and the Cruise Association are working together to reduce the number of cruise ships being sent for last-minute cleaning.
Tourism operators frustrated cruise ships failing to meet biofouling standards
Tourism operators are annoyed to see cruise ships failing to meet the standard of cleanliness required to enter their ports.
International tourism bounces back quicker than expected
Tourism NZ will continue domestic marketing despite the return of international visitors, with its sights on long-term recovery after years of disruptions from Covid-19
Third cruise ship in three weeks fails NZ's biofouling standards
The Seven Seas Explorer had too many worms and too much algae.
How ships meet NZ's strict biofoul thresholds
There has been an increase in demand for the work due to a shortage of cleaning facilities and stricter biofoul thresholds.
Up to 530,000 international visitors expected in next two months
Half-a-million international visitors are expected to fly into New Zealand in the next two months, at the same time the tourism sector is battling chronic labour shortages.
Waka Kotahi signals delays ahead with New Year's Eve traffic hotspots
The transport agency is warning travellers to expect heavy traffic on highways up and down the country.
Bagmageddon: The suitcases lost for a week at Auckland airport
Christmas presents, birthday gifts, medication and clothes. It's all in Fiona Peacock's luggage which has been missing for a week at Auckland International Airport.
Tourism groups unite to run environmentally friendly bus
Tourism operators have joined forces to establish a bus service between Nelson and the Abel Tasman National Park.
Small businesses missing out on govt's tourism fund, some claim
The youth and adventure tourism industry says small businesses are missing out on the government fund to boost the sector's recovery.
Remote camping and tramping spots for summer getaways
Aotearoa boasts many out-of-the-way camping and tramping spots that take some time and effort to reach.
How to take a hike this summer while staying safe
Trampers are being urged to ensure they're well-prepared before striking out.
Highway traffic back to pre-Covid-19 levels, holidaymakers warned
Waka Kotahi has chosen this summer to carry out major roadworks as well.
How will hospitality and tourism fare this summer?
A recent survey by Tourism Industry Aotearoa finds hospitality and tourism is short of sixty-five thousand workers. Queues, reduced opening hours and minimum two night stays are on the cards this… Audio
Do hotel booking sites actually keep prices high?
If you're heading away this summer and looking at booking a hotel or motel - should you use a booking site? An investigation is underway by the Australian department of treasury - requested by… Audio
Group raising $800k to maintain KiwiRail line for historic train
A Gisborne train group needs to raise the money for repairs to a KiwiRail line so its fabled steam locomotive can continue its usual route.
Summer travel could add to ED strain - expert
As Aotearoa's emergency departments fight to keep up with demand, an expert is warning that an increase in tourism could add to the strain this summer. There had already been almost 360 deaths on our… Audio
Tourism body working to get recovery underway in volatile market
Tourism New Zealand says the industry is making promising steps towards recovery but it will take years for it to bounce back after years of disruptions.