12. Question No. 12—TourismGLEN BENNETT (Labour—New Plymouth) to the Minister of TourismQuestion No. 12—Tourism12. GLEN BENNETT (Labour—New Plymouth) to the Minister of Tourism: Kia orana Mr Speaker. What recent reports has he seen regarding New Zealanders' support for tourism?Hon PEENI HENARE (Minister of Tourism): Kia orana Mr Speaker. Last week I received research conducted by Tourism New Zealand showing that 89 percent of New Zealanders agree that tourism is good for New Zealand. This number shows that Kiwis understand the fundamental role that tourism plays in our country. And this Government has been clear in providing support to our regions boosting our economy and ensuring tourism is a key part of our national identity. Hon David Bennett: What are New Zealanders' views on how tourism impacts the economy?Hon PEENI HENARE: Ninety-two percent of New Zealanders agree that tourism has a positive impact on the economy and they're right. International visitor spend in May 2023 was up 14 percent from pre-COVID May 2019 levels and spend from all international visitors totalled $3.2 billion in the March 2023 quarter. It's fantastic to see that New Zealanders recognise tourism's positive contribution to our economy as the sector rebuilds from the impacts of COVID-19 and supports New Zealand's recovery. That's why the Government has been hard at work developing international ties to continue to bring overseas tourists into New Zealand. We've already announced new flight paths between China and New Zealand and we've also announced new technology partnerships that will enable New Zealand to be promoted as a travel destination to a significant consumer base. Glen Bennett: What are New Zealanders' views on how tourism impacts regional communities?Hon PEENI HENARE: Fewer New Zealanders now perceive the level of tourism in their community as being too high compared to November 2022 and there is still a high 37 percent of New Zealanders who would like to see more tourism in their communities. Communities recognise that tourism provides jobs and also that it can positively affect social wellbeing in connection with culture. Tourism New Zealand is working hard to attract visitors who want to experience New Zealand in an authentic way that contributes positively to New Zealand's culture society nature and economy. We continue to support destination planning at a regional level with a recent investment of $5 million to help develop a well-managed sustainable visitor destination that can adapt and change depending on the region's needs or opportunities from a social economic cultural and environmental point of view.Glen Bennett: How is the Government addressing some of the concerns expressed by New Zealanders regarding tourism here in New Zealand?Hon PEENI HENARE: Some New Zealanders believe there are negative impacts from tourism mainly around specific things that affect them in their region but also the environment. This Government is listening; there's considerable work at central and local government levels to ensure that the tourism sector contributes both positively and innovatively to all communities. This includes the Tourism Environment Action Plan which is looking at ways that tourism in Aotearoa New Zealand can protect and restore the climate and environment making sure tourism is regenerative into our future.