Australia & NZ Simplify Dual Trips for Chinese Travelers

At the APEC leaders’ meeting, Australia and New Zealand unveiled a game-changing policy to simplify dual-country trips for Chinese travelers. Starting November 3, Chinese passport holders arriving in Australia with a valid visa can explore New Zealand visa-free, needing only a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA).

Tourism is a backbone for both economies. In the fiscal year ending March 2025:

• China ranked as New Zealand’s third-largest inbound market, contributing 1.24 billion NZD (about $748 million).
• Chinese visitors spent 9.2 billion AUD (around $6 billion) in Australia, making them the top spenders Down Under.

This streamlined visa process unlocks new adventures for globetrotters and digital nomads:

• Wildlife encounters among Australia’s koalas, kangaroos and tropical reefs.
• Urban explorations from Sydney’s Harbour Bridge to Melbourne’s laneway coffee culture.
• Thrill-seeking in New Zealand’s adventure hubs, from bungee jumps and glacier treks to immersive Māori cultural experiences.

Beyond boosting visitor numbers, this policy deepens cultural ties and fuels economic growth across both nations. Whether you’re a tech entrepreneur scouting emerging markets, a thought leader pursuing sustainable travel insights, or a sports fan chasing events Down Under, this visa waiver offers fresh perspectives and real-world impact in one seamless journey.

Pack your bags and prepare for a dual-nation adventure—Australia and New Zealand are making it easier than ever to explore their iconic landscapes, vibrant cities and rich cultures in a single trip.

Reference(s):

APEC Stories: Australia-NZ trips become easier for Chinese travelers

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