With New Zealand’s tourism sector reaching a pivotal moment of revival and growth, we sit down with hospitality and travel industry expert Katarina Railko. Having honed her skills across tourism, entertainment, and major events, Katarina offers a unique perspective on this new golden era. We’ll explore the evolving profile of international visitors, the tangible improvements in travel infrastructure, the rising appeal of regional destinations, and how the nation is masterfully balancing a surge in popularity with a deep-rooted commitment to sustainability.
With strong demand from Australia and a rebound in long-haul markets like the United States, how is the typical visitor profile changing? Could you share some insights on how this affects the types of tours and accommodations that are now most in demand?
It’s a fascinating and positive shift. We’re seeing a two-pronged engine driving our growth. Australia remains our steadfast anchor, providing a consistent flow of visitors thanks to proximity and excellent flight connectivity. But the real story is the powerful comeback of long-haul markets from the United States and parts of Asia. These travelers tend to have higher spending power and longer stays, which completely energizes the industry. Holiday travel is still the primary motivation, so people are coming here for that quintessential New Zealand leisure experience. This directly translates into demand for a wider, more sophisticated range of products—from eco-lodges and boutique hotels to more immersive, high-quality guided tours that were perhaps paused in quieter years.
As New Zealand’s tourism infrastructure returns to full scale, what are the most significant improvements travelers can expect? Can you walk us through how airport operations or tour availability have become more reliable now compared to the immediate post-recovery years?
The difference is night and day. For a few years, we were in what I’d call a ‘recovery mode,’ where things were operational but not always seamless. Now, the entire system is functioning at full scale again. For a traveler, this means the journey feels more polished and predictable from the moment they land. You’ll notice better staffing levels at airports, which leads to smoother operations and less friction. Tour operators have reinvested and are back with their full range of experiences, so you’re not encountering limited availability or canceled trips. This renewed consistency builds incredible confidence; travelers can plan their dream trip knowing that the scenic rail journeys, adventure activities, and cultural encounters they book will be delivered reliably and to a high standard.
We’re seeing a trend of visitors exploring beyond major hubs into regional areas of both the North and South Islands. What specific “hidden gem” destinations are benefiting, and what practical advice can you offer travelers for planning a self-drive itinerary to these less-crowded locations?
This is one of the most exciting outcomes of the revival. The economic benefits are spreading more evenly, and travelers are discovering the incredible depth of our country. While the article doesn’t name specific towns, we’re seeing increased interest in destinations across the whole South Island and the regional parts of the North Island—places that offer truly authentic community experiences. My best advice for a self-drive itinerary is to plan ahead, especially as these areas become more popular. Lock in your vehicle and key accommodations early. A self-drive tour gives you the freedom to discover those landscapes that define our global reputation at your own pace. Don’t be afraid to build buffer days into your schedule to linger in a place that captures your heart or to explore a side road that looks interesting.
As demand for travel during peak summer months intensifies, what are the key trade-offs for visitors considering the shoulder seasons instead? Please elaborate on the differences in crowds, costs, and available activities one might find in autumn versus summer.
Experienced travelers are increasingly recognizing the magic of our shoulder seasons, like autumn. Summer is, of course, brilliant with its long, sunny days and vibrant atmosphere, but that popularity means you’re contending with more people and higher prices. Early booking becomes absolutely essential for everything from domestic flights to popular attractions. If you choose to travel in a shoulder season, the trade-off is phenomenal. You get better value for your money and, most importantly, more space. The landscapes are just as stunning—often more so with the autumn colors—but you experience them with a greater sense of peace and intimacy. While a few seasonal activities might have shorter hours, the vast majority of experiences are still fully available, just without the peak-season rush.
New Zealand has linked its tourism growth to a strong sustainability focus. How does this commitment to responsible tourism translate into tangible experiences for visitors on the ground? Can you provide an anecdote of a tour or activity that successfully balances high visitor numbers with conservation?
This commitment is the very heart of our tourism philosophy, and it absolutely enhances the visitor experience rather than limiting it. It means that when you visit a national park, the landscapes remain pristine because tourism funding directly supports conservation and infrastructure maintenance. A perfect example is our managed wildlife encounters. Instead of unregulated access that could harm the animals, we have well-organized tours that respect their habitats while providing an incredibly moving and authentic experience for visitors. This approach ensures our natural treasures are protected for generations to come, proving that high visitor numbers and sustainability can not only coexist but can actually support one another when guided by thoughtful, long-term planning. It makes the entire trip more meaningful.
What is your forecast for New Zealand tourism beyond 2025?
I’m incredibly optimistic. All signs point toward a period of steady, managed growth rather than a chaotic, sudden boom. This is the ideal scenario, as it allows destinations to adapt, invest wisely in infrastructure, and maintain the high service standards we’re known for. For travelers, this means New Zealand will continue to represent a safe, high-quality, and deeply meaningful destination. We’ve re-established our connection with the global travel community, and the focus will remain on quality over quantity. This new chapter is about offering unforgettable journeys that are both rewarding for the visitor and responsible to our land and communities.
