New Zealand is considering a nationwide visitor accommodation levy as part of efforts to strengthen tourism infrastructure and support its most popular travel destinations.

The proposal, put forward by Regional Tourism New Zealand, would see visitors contribute through an accommodation-based charge, with revenue directed back to the regions where it is collected.

Tourism leaders say the levy would help fund essential infrastructure, events and public amenities while easing the financial burden on local councils.

Supporters argue the measure would create a more sustainable tourism economy and ensure communities can continue to welcome growing numbers of visitors.

The proposal follows similar initiatives in global tourism hotspots, including Kyoto in Japan, which introduced higher accommodation taxes earlier this year to address overtourism and protect local heritage.

If approved, the levy would place New Zealand alongside destinations in Australia, Europe, Canada and the United States that already use visitor charges to help maintain world-class attractions.