Published on
August 18, 2025
The Tourism industry of New Zealand has been facing challenges in its efforts to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. With the aim of driving growth and increasing international visitor numbers, some experts believe that expanding the working holiday visa program could play a crucial role. A recent call to raise the age limit for working holiday visas has sparked discussions about how such a change could benefit New Zealand’s tourism economy.
Raising the Age Limit for Working Holiday Visas
Currently, New Zealand’s working holiday visas are available for individuals aged between 18 and 35 years. These visas allow visitors to work, travel, and study in New Zealand for up to 12 months. Citizens from certain countries, such as Canada and the United Kingdom, have the privilege of extending their stay beyond this period. Despite its success in attracting international travelers, the number of working holiday visas issued has been on a steady decline, with a notable 11% drop in the year ending February 2025.
To reverse this decline and attract more international visitors, Tim Alpe, the managing director of LyLo Hostel in Auckland, has proposed raising the working holiday visa age limit to 50. Alpe believes that this change could make New Zealand a more attractive destination for older travelers, who may now have more disposable income and the time to enjoy a working holiday experience later in life.
A New Market of Travelers with More Disposable Income
Alpe sees significant potential in attracting older travelers to New Zealand. He argues that people aged over 35 are a demographic with a higher likelihood of having more disposable income and greater flexibility in their schedules. Many of these travelers may be seeking a career change or embarking on an overseas experience (OE) later in life. The COVID-19 pandemic has also prompted many individuals to reassess their life priorities, leading to increased interest in traveling and exploring new opportunities abroad.
“I think there’d be really good demand for people wanting to come down and do their OE somewhat later in life, or do it again,” Alpe said. By raising the working holiday visa age, New Zealand could tap into this emerging market of travelers looking for adventure, career change, or personal growth in a new destination.
Impact on the Economy and Tourism Recovery
The tourism industry in New Zealand is an essential part of the country’s economy, generating significant revenue and providing thousands of jobs. Alpe emphasized that every working holiday visa issued adds approximately $60,000 to the New Zealand economy. With older travelers likely to spend more on average than younger ones, this could translate into a meaningful economic boost for the country.
In fact, people aged over 30 who travel under the working holiday visa scheme are expected to spend more, which would further fuel the country’s tourism recovery. The tourism industry in New Zealand has faced tough times due to the decline in visitor numbers during the pandemic. However, with the right strategies, including expanding the working holiday visa program, the country can regain its footing as a top international travel destination.
The Government’s Tourism Recovery Plan
New Zealand’s government has set ambitious targets for tourism recovery. The nation aims to reach 3.89 million international visitors by 2026, which represents a return to 2019’s levels. In addition, the government is focused on doubling the value of tourism exports by 2034, expecting the sector to generate around $19.8 billion in revenue by that time. The proposal to extend the working holiday visa age limit is seen as part of this broader strategy to rejuvenate the tourism sector.
While the government works to bring more tourists to New Zealand, raising the working holiday visa age limit could be a practical solution to attract more visitors, especially those with more disposable income to spend on their travels. Alpe’s proposal aligns with the country’s efforts to capitalize on tourism recovery by focusing on international visitors who may be more willing to contribute to the economy during their stay.
A Unique Opportunity for New Zealand Tourism
According to Alpe, New Zealand could become a more unique destination by raising the working holiday visa age limit. By attracting older travelers, the country would differentiate itself from other popular destinations, which typically target younger visitors. The idea of extending the working holiday visa program would make New Zealand one of the few countries to offer such an opportunity for travelers over 35, giving it a competitive edge in the global tourism market.
New Zealand’s appeal to older travelers, combined with the country’s stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly locals, creates a perfect environment for fostering long-term tourism growth. By offering flexible visa policies and catering to a wider range of travelers, New Zealand could position itself as a top destination for tourists looking to enrich their lives with new experiences.
The Future of New Zealand’s Tourism Economy
As New Zealand continues to focus on its tourism recovery, raising the age limit for working holiday visas could be a step toward meeting the government’s ambitious tourism targets. The ability to welcome older tourists who are eager to travel, work, and explore the country could play a key role in revitalizing the nation’s tourism sector.
With the right policies in place, New Zealand can continue to build its reputation as a top destination for international travelers. By expanding its visa program to include older visitors, the country will not only benefit from an influx of tourists but also from a demographic that is more likely to contribute to the local economy and stay longer.
A Smart Move for Tourism Recovery
As the global tourism industry continues to recover from the effects of the pandemic, New Zealand has the opportunity to stand out as a destination that offers something for everyone. Expanding the working holiday visa age limit could be a game-changer, opening doors to a new market of travelers with more disposable income and a desire to experience all that New Zealand has to offer.
For New Zealand tourism, this could be the boost it needs to return to its pre-pandemic glory and beyond. By embracing this change, the country will create a more inclusive and vibrant tourism sector that benefits travelers and local communities alike.
