NZ’s tourism industry aiming to grow 70% during next decade

NZ’s tourism industry aiming to grow 70% during next decadeNew Zealand's tourism industry has said that it is targeting a growth of by 70 per cent during the coming decade.

According to official figures, the tourism sector currently contributes $NZ24 billion a year to the economy. The Tourism Industry Association (TIA) said on Monday said that it is aiming to contribute $NZ41 billion to the national economy by the year 2025.

In order to increase its share in the national economy, the sector expects international tourism to grow at six per cent year on year and the domestic tourism to grow at the rate of four per cent year on year, according to association's chief executive Martin Snedden said.

Snedden said, "The focus is value, rather than visitor numbers. We will grow volume, but we will grow value faster."

The plan to reach the target, called Tourism 2025 includes increasing flights and looking for tourism ventures that offers financial benefits to the sector. The initiative will look to encourage visitors to stay longer by improving their experience. Tourism New Zealand said that the plan will help the entire industry reach that goal.