Tourism is one of New Zealand’s biggest export industries, earning 16.1% of New Zealand’s foreign exchange earnings (year ended March 2013). Tourism directly and indirectly contributes almost 9% of gross domestic product (GDP) for New Zealand. Tourism directly and indirectly employs nearly 9% of total employment in New Zealand.Tourism in New Zealand is a $65.5 million per day industry. Total tourism expenditure reached $23.9 billion for the year ended March 2013.

New Zealanders accord a high importance tothisindustry.Tourism is big business in New Zealand and this brings out the best in Kiwi hosts. New Zealanders take pride in national parks bulging with virgin native forest. They love the fact they can ski in the mountains in the morning and surf at beach breaks after lunch. And above all, they adore it when visitors join them.

Tourism success in New Zealand is a multi-organisational joint team effort. Tourism and Aviation education and training institutions play a crucial role besides the Government agencies and organisations ranging from Tourism NZ, Regional Tourism Organisations New Zealand, Tourism Industry Association New Zealand, Qualmark, NZ Maori Tourism Council, Air New Zealand, Tourism operators and Hospitality industry are among key players and partners.