2016 marked a stark increase with over 50,000 visitors
A record breaking 50,160 Malaysians have visited New Zealand in the year ending November 2016, representing a 48.4% increase compared to 2015. This is according to new data released by Tourism New Zealand.
The data also revealed that the number of holiday arrivals from Malaysia to New Zealand in the same period was a total of 35,440 – a 61.7% increase from 2015 and is also the highest percentage increase in holiday arrivals from Asia to New Zealand.
Tourism New Zealand’s Regional Manager for South and South East Asia, Mr Steven Dixon, said the consistent increase in tourist arrivals from Malaysia further cements New Zealand’s appeal as a holiday destination.
“New Zealand offers a huge range of travel experiences – from learning about the Maori culture, getting up close to stunning landscapes on a walk, ride or cruise, going on gourmet food tours or visiting the filming locations of popular movies, there is something for every Malaysian traveller to revel in.
“The availability of activities in close proximity to each other, as well as the different seasonal experiences also set New Zealand apart as a unique destination,” said Mr. Dixon. He added that it is very easy for Malaysians to visit New Zealand, and this has contributed to the rise in tourist numbers from Malaysia.
“Malaysians don’t need a visa to enter New Zealand and Malaysia Airlines operates non-stop return services between Auckland and Kuala Lumpur daily over the summer peak period, and six days a week during the rest of the year.
To further strengthen tourism ties between Malaysia and New Zealand, Mr Dixon shared that Tourism New Zealand continues to collaborate with partners to help ensure Malaysians have access to information to get the most out of their New Zealand holiday.
Last year, Tourism New Zealand also released the Halal Food Guide which was developed with the support of the Kiwi Muslim Directory and Federation of the Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ). The guide provides general tourism information, together with a list of restaurants and cafes, from halal-certified through to those which offer vegetarian dishes or vegan cuisine.
“In 2017, we look forward to working more closely with our tourism partners in Malaysia to further raise awareness of New Zealand as an exciting travel destination,” said Mr. Dixon.
