New Zealand tourism 'to benefit from investment'

The tourism industry in New Zealand is set to see major benefits over the coming months following the announcement of extra government investment, an airline has predicted.

Air New Zealand said that the additional funding will enable the country to win back market share from other popular travel destinations and achieve a significant increase in its visitor numbers.

Despite strong interest from Australia, the tourism sector has faced a "tough year" and recorded falling visitor numbers from several key markets, Air New Zealand revealed.

Ed Sims, the airline's general manager of international operations, said that the sector has "good potential" that can be realised through additional investment.

"The government should be congratulated for the funding boost which demonstrates its confidence in securing ongoing growth from New Zealand's highest export-earning industry," he added.

Air New Zealand recently announced that it would be cutting its domestic flight fares by up to 23 per cent this year.

People interested in visiting the country can catch flights to Auckland, Wellington and other cities.

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