Fees · Country Guide
Temperate reefs, epic wrecks, and fjord walls in a road-trip-friendly dive nation
Updated Mar 4, 2026 • 20 sources
Fees And Permits
Confirm these fees before you book so your operator plan and day budget match what you will pay onsite.
Fees You Can't Skip
- International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) - NZD $100
- New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) - From NZD $17 (plus IVL where required)
- Typical payment pattern: New Zealand's main travel fees are handled during immigration steps (NZeTA/visa and the IVL).
What people usually pay
New Zealand's main travel fees are handled during immigration steps (NZeTA/visa and the IVL). Marine reserves generally have no entry fee, but they have strict no-take rules. Some conservation experiences (backcountry huts, tracks, campsites) require bookings or fees through the Department of Conservation (DOC).
| Fee | Amount | Applies to | Where to pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) | NZD $100 Paid during eligible NZeTA or visa applications | Most international visitors, working holiday makers, and some students and workers | Immigration New Zealand online during NZeTA/visa process | The IVL funds conservation and tourism infrastructure. It is separate from airline tickets and is not paid at the airport. |
| New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) | From NZD $17 (plus IVL where required) Valid 2 years for most travellers (multiple entries) | Many visa waiver travellers, some transit passengers, and cruise ship passengers | Immigration New Zealand app or website | Processing can take up to 72 hours. Apply before departure and double-check whether you are visiting or only transiting. |
| DOC huts, campsites, and track bookings | Varies by site and season Per night or per booking | Coastal walks, Great Walks, and backcountry stays (useful for mixed dive and hike trips) | DOC online booking system or visitor centres | If you are adding multi-day hikes to a dive trip, book early for peak summer and carry a weather buffer day. |
| Marine reserve access | Free (rules apply) N/A | All visitors entering marine reserves | N/A | Marine reserves are strict no-take zones: no fishing, collecting, feeding, or disturbing marine life. Operators may have their own permits and rules for moorings. |