New Zealand to nearly triple tourist tax for international visitors

Australian tourists will be exempt from the NZ$100 levy which critics say will deter travellers

New Zealand will nearly triple entry fees for tourists, the government has said, spurring criticism from the key tourism sector that the higher levy will deter visitors.

The government said in a statement on Tuesday it would increase the international visitor and conservation and tourism fees starting on 1 October to NZ$100 ($61.85) from NZ$35 to ensure visitors contribute to public services and high-quality experiences while visiting New Zealand".