Wellington - New Zealand will lift the requirement for visitors from Taiwan to get visas before travelling starting November 30, it was announced Wednesday.

Taiwanese passport holders staying in New Zealand for less than three months as tourists, on business, for short-term study or visiting friends or relatives will no longer be required to apply for a visa, the New Zealand Commerce and Industry Office (NZCIO) announced.

Charles Finny, chief executive of the NZCIO's parent, Wellington Regional Chamber of Commerce, said the move would encourage the growth of business, trade, tourism and education links between New Zealand and Taiwan.

"Taiwan is important to New Zealand as our 12th-largest export market and a significant source of investment, students and migrants," he said.

Annual two-way trade is about 1.4 billion New Zealand dollars (1.05 billion US dollars).

Finny said the chamber hoped increased tourism from the decision would encourage re-establishment of direct air service between New Zealand and Taiwan.

The NZCIO represents New Zealand's interests in Taiwan in the absence of formal diplomatic relations. (IANS)