New Zealand plans to start charging international tourists fees to enter its most popular natural sites while keeping them free for locals.
The government will charge foreign visitors NZ$20-40 (US$12-24) to access some sites, including Milford Sound and Mount Cook.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said foreign visitors should contribute to the upkeep of popular national parks. He said about 80% of visitors at these attractions are foreign tourists
The estimated NZ$62 million (US$36m) in annual revenue raised would be invested in conservation areas, Luxon said.
“I have heard many times from friends visiting from overseas their shock that they can visit some of the most beautiful places in the world for free,” Luxon said.
“It’s only fair that at these locations, foreign visitors make an additional contribution.
“At the same time, there will be no charge for New Zealanders to access the conservation estate,” he added.
“It’s our collective inheritance and Kiwis shouldn’t have to pay to see it.”