New Zealand tourism roars back with record 3.5M visitors in 2025
New Zealand's tourism sector witnessed a robust rebound in 2025, with overseas visitor numbers surging to their highest level since the Covid-19 pandemic. Over 3.5 million tourists arrived in the country by December, indicating a 6% increase from the previous year. Airports in Christchurch and Auckland also reported a rise in international flight capacity, setting the stage for a bustling summer season ahead.
The year ending December 2025 marked the first since March 2020 to surpass 3.5 million tourist arrivals. A total of 3.51 million overseas visitors entered New Zealand, reaching 90% of pre-pandemic levels recorded in 2019. Holidaymakers drove much of this growth, contributing significantly to the annual increase.
Australia remained the largest source of visitors, with arrivals rising by 10% compared to 2024. More than 1.5 million tourists came from across the Tasman, reinforcing its position as New Zealand's top market. Meanwhile, overall international flight capacity into the country grew by 4%, supporting the influx of travellers.
Christchurch Airport anticipated a record summer season in 2025/26, with international capacity up by 15%. Auckland Airport also saw a nearly 4% increase in flight availability for the same period. However, no specific reasons were identified for the stronger-than-usual growth in flight capacities at both airports compared to previous years.
The rise in visitor numbers and flight capacity signals a continued recovery for New Zealand's tourism industry. With arrivals nearing pre-pandemic levels, the sector looks set for further growth in the coming year. The increase in Australian tourists and expanded airport operations will likely play a key role in sustaining this momentum.
