Strengthening New Zealand’s Tourism Ties with China

The most significant update in the MOU this time is the commitment towards processing visas faster. INZ has promised to process applications under certain schemes such as  ADS and Free and Independent Traveller just within 5 days from ten days. This actually showcases the trusted relationship between ADS, Chinese Travel industries with New Zealand built over the years.

New Zealand is taking big steps to boost its tourism links with China. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) and Tourism New Zealand (TNZ) have just signed an updated Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with selected Chinese travel agents, reaffirming a strong partnership aimed at making travel easier and more attractive for Chinese visitors.

The agreement was signed in Shanghai by Alison McDonald, Head of INZ and René de Monchy, Chief Executive of Tourism New Zealand, alongside key Approved Destination Status (ADS) agents.

Alison McDonald highlighted the importance of this step:

“China is a key market for New Zealand’s tourism sector and we want to see visitor numbers continue to grow.”

From the financial year 2024-25 alone, INZ approved over 226,000 visitor visas for China. With these streamlined processes, that number is expected to grow much higher.

Expanding travel opportunities

The updated MOU covers beyond the traditional holidays. ADS agents can now submit visa applications on behalf of the Chinese travellers who want to attend events, make trips or even study tours within their itineraries. This opens the door for more varied and enriched experiences for Chinese visitors in New Zealand.

Why this matters for tourism

China is currently New Zealand’s third largest inbound visitor market, with holiday arrivals up by 8% over the past year. René de Monchy from Tourism New Zealand emphasised the value of this partnership in delivering high-quality and safe experiences for visitors. The ADS arrangement ensures that Chinese tour groups can enjoy New Zealand’s “100% Pure” brand promise all year round.

Extra perks for Chinese visitors

Beyond the MOU, New Zealand continues to provide Chinese travellers with some of the most generous visa settings globally:

• Most Chinese visitors receive a five-year multiple entry visa, making it easier to return.

• From 3 November 2025, Chinese travellers coming from Australia will be able to enter New Zealand without applying for a visitor visa, provided they hold an eligible Australian visa. Instead, they’ll only need a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA).

• From 27 October 2025, Chinese nationals will also be able to transit through New Zealand using a Transit NZeTA instead of applying for a separate transit visa.

Looking Ahead

The renewed MOU highlights New Zealand’s commitment to welcoming more Chinese visitors, tourists and travellers that support the economy and strengthening cultural and business ties between both the countries. With faster visa processing, more travel opportunities and easier re-entry rules, the future looks bright for New Zealand tourism from China for China.