Fees · Country Guide
Temperate reefs, epic wrecks, and fjord walls in a road-trip-friendly dive nation
Updated Mar 4, 2026 • 20 sources
Confirm these fees before you book so your operator plan and day budget match what you will pay onsite.
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. |
Fee
Paid during eligible NZeTA or visa applications
The IVL funds conservation and tourism infrastructure. It is separate from airline tickets and is not paid at the airport.
Valid 2 years for most travellers (multiple entries)
Processing can take up to 72 hours. Apply before departure and double-check whether you are visiting or only transiting.
Per night or per booking
If you are adding multi-day hikes to a dive trip, book early for peak summer and carry a weather buffer day.
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.