The Government has announced changes to make it easier for Chinese tourists to travel to New Zealand.
China is one of New Zealand’s most important markets, providing opportunities for our tourism sector, boosting trade and business relationships, and connecting friends and family.
New Zealand already has generous visitor visa offerings for Chinese nationals, reflecting the importance of the relationship with China. Most Chinese visitors receive a 5-year multiple entry visitor visa, making it easier for Chinese visitors to return to New Zealand.
To increase the number of Chinese tourists coming to New Zealand, from November 2025 Chinese tourists travelling from Australia with a valid Australian visitor, work, student or family visa will be able to travel to New Zealand for up to 3 months with a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA), rather than applying for a visa.
This does not include people transiting through Australia, and applicants will still need to meet the criteria for an NZeTA.
This will be trialled for 12-months.
Photos credit to freepik